Parabens - Let’s face it - Caroline Clapperton, Planet Skincare

Let’s face it

Skin care products these days are laden with synthetic chemical ingredients, including parabens The dangers of parabens and other chemicals are down played by the government and the skin care industry but some consumers are taking matters into their own hands.

Parabens are a group of chemicals that have been shown to have gestrogenic (hormonal) properties. There are five Parabens in total.

Most of the other major cosmetic company formulas use Parabens in their products.

Any substance that has the potential to raise the oestrogen level in the body is to be discouraged.

Are parabens bad?

Parabens are widely used as preservatives in skin care products because they are cheap and effective. The problem is that parabens cause allergic reactions and skin irritation in many people. Moreover, studies show that parabens exhibit estrogen-like activity and thus interfere with the body’s endocrine system.

The dangers of parabens may not seem serious enough in order for the ingredient to be banned completely but many consumers are asking questions. A 2004 study in the UK found traces of parabens in breast tumor tissue samples and scientists think it has to do with the use of deodorant that contains parabens. If the increased risk of cancer is not an undesirable side effect that should have a product banned, I don’t know what is.

Are parabens bad enough to avoid completely?

There are an increasing number of people who believe that and that’s why there are a growing number of paraben-free skin care products available on the market.

If you don’t feel comfortable using skin care products that contain parabens, only buy from companies that do not apply parabens to their products.

So are parabens bad?

While there are not absolutely definitive studies on the matter, the scientific evidence so far shows that parabens do pose health risks. Your best bet is to avoid using skin care products that contain parabens in order to stay safe. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin and are susceptible to allergic reactions.

So there you have it

The dangers of parabens may not be apparent to the point that their use is prohibited but the scientific evidence that we have so far is nothing short of alarming.

If you want to stay safe and use skin care products that will benefit your skin rather than harm it, go paraben-free.

Caroline Clapperton

Caroline is CEO and founder of Planet Skincare Limited - www.planetskincare.co.uk