Do you read the labels on skin care products to see if they’re paraben free?
Parabens in skin care and beauty products have become an increasing concern. These synthetic compounds are found in many of the shampoos, moisturizers, shaving creams, cleansers, deodorants, sunscreens and toothpastes that we use every day. They’re preservatives, used to lengthen a product’s shelf life. Those most commonly used in cosmetic products are methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben, according t
o the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Opinions vary on the safety of the use of parabens. “The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) reviewed the safety of methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben in 1984 and concluded they were safe for use in cosmetic products at levels up to 25%. Typically parabens are used at levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.3%,” the FDA writes.
Parabens mimic estrogen. These so-called “endocrine disrupters” have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. A study conducted 20 years later, in 2004, found parabens in malignant breast tumors. The study did not show that parabens cause cancer, the FDA points out.
Other researchers have reached different conclusions – especially in regard young people. Disrupting reproductive hormones during development seems to have long-term consequences, including susceptibility to tumor growth, according to hormone researcher Janet Gray, a psychology professor at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
We believe in paraben-free skincare for a reason. Like many other skincare ingredients, parabens simply aren’t necessary. At BodyVerde, we use Vitamin E and other oxygenated, plant-based ingredients to help preserve formulations. They’re just as effective and allow for a shelf life of up to three years.
The bottom line is, what you apply on your skin stays in your body. As your body unsuccessfully tries to process parabens and other chemicals, it creates undue stress on the body. Why use manufactured chemicals when you don’t have to?
Feed your skin natural, nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a paraben-free face cream, a paraben-free body cream, or a paraben-free shaving cream, we’ve got it.
What paraben-free products have you tried?
Image: li-penny / Flickr
