What are parabens?
- 2 min reading time
If you’ve ever purchased or used cosmetic products, you’ve probably heard the term “parabens.” Parabens are a common ingredient in cosmetic products, especially lotions, creams, shampoos, and conditioners. But what exactly are parabens? And why are they often avoided in cosmetics?
What are parabens?
Parabens are synthetic preservatives that are often used in cosmetic and personal care products such as creams, lotions, and shampoos. They are added to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in these products, thus extending their shelf life. They have been used in cosmetic products since the 1950s and are relatively inexpensive and effective. There are several types of parabens, including methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.
Paraben-free products
However, there have been concerns about the safety of parabens, as some studies have suggested they can disrupt hormone balance and have been linked to certain types of cancer. As a result, more and more people are opting for paraben-free products.
Because of these concerns, some countries, including the European Union, have imposed restrictions on the use of parabens in cosmetics. Many cosmetic companies have also replaced parabens with alternative preservatives, such as phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, sorbic acid, and potassium sorbate.
If you want to avoid parabens in your cosmetic products, you can check the ingredients list and look for words like "methylparaben" or "propylparaben". There are also many cosmetic products on the market that are specifically marked "paraben-free".
At Boozyshop you can take a look at the Clean Beauty and Clean Skincare categories, where you will find all products that are paraben-free.
The most frequently asked questions about Parabens
Are parabens dangerous to my health?
There has been much debate about the safety of parabens in cosmetic products. Some studies suggest that parabens in large doses can disrupt hormone balance and may be carcinogenic. However, the concentrations of parabens used in cosmetic products are generally very low and are considered safe by regulators such as the European Commission and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
What are the alternatives to parabens?
There are several natural preservatives that can be used in place of parabens, including vitamin E and essential oils. Or, look into:
Phenoxyethanol: This is a preservative often used as an alternative to parabens. It is mild, non-irritating and effective in preventing bacterial growth.
Benzyl Alcohol: This is also a preservative that can be used in place of parabens. It has antimicrobial properties and is suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Sorbic acid: This is a natural preservative extracted from berries. It is mild, non-toxic and has antimicrobial properties.
Ethylhexylglycerin: This is a preservative used as an alternative to parabens. It has antimicrobial properties and is suitable for people with sensitive skin.
It is important to note that these alternatives are also preservatives and are not necessarily safer than parabens. It is always important to read the ingredients list of products and if you have any concerns about a particular ingredient, please feel free to speak to us via chat or email.
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