Parabens are a family of synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in cosmetic skincare products. These preservatives may be used to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold to protect both the product’s shelf-life and the consumer.
Parabens are typically found in:
• Cosmetic Skincare Products
• Shampoos & Conditioners
• Deodorants and Toothpaste
• Household Cleaners
• Food
In high enough doses – potentially. The CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), an independent panel of medical and scientific experts that meets quarterly to discuss and assess the safety of cosmetic ingredients based on the latest data, found that typically – parabens are found in products at levels of 0.01 -0.3% or lower. The dangers potentially arise with the accumulation of parabens in the body.
Although the FDA does not recognize this claim, the main risk associated with repeated life-long exposure to parabens is in disrupting your endocrine system. It’s all about how parabens impact the hormone: estrogen. Parabens mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors and causing disruption of natural hormone levels – possibly leading to reproductive harm and the development of cancer cells. While the information and research surrounding parabens is ongoing, we at The A Method find it is best to avoid them when possible.
The most common parabens used in cosmetics and skincare products are:
• Ethylparaben
• Butylparaben
• Propylparaben
• Methylparaben
• Isopropylparaben
Products that contain parabens typically list more than one in their ingredients listing. If you want to avoid parabens, you must be diligent in reviewing product labels before use. Parabens are also used in conjunction with other preservatives. The best way to avoid parabens in skincare is to use products labeled “paraben-free”.
In this episode, Angelia Inscoe, co-founder and formulator of The A Method medical grade skincare, breaks down the cold, hard truth about parabens in skin care and body products.
Listeners Will Learn:
How Parabens interact with the Endocrine System
Specific health risks associated with parabens
How to read labels to best avoid parabens
Many skincare providers have made decisions to go paraben-free in the past decade. While some over-the-counter cosmetics and skincare products still contain parabens (especially products with a higher water content like shampoos, conditioners and washes) – many retailers have made the switch to other anti-microbial stabilizers to keep their products fresh and stable.
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