What are parabens? Harmful effects of cosmetics containing parabens

What are parabens?

Parabens are preservatives used in cosmetics such as facial cleansers, makeup removers with antibacterial and antifungal properties, used to prevent bacterial infection and limit the decomposition of ingredients in cosmetics leading to reduced effectiveness. of the product.

In terms of chemical structure, Paraben is an esterification reaction of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, including 3 common forms : methylparaben , propylparaben , and butylparaben .

Other less commonly used ones are: isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, pentylparaben, phenylparaben, benzylparaben, and its sodium salts (Sodium salts).

Normally, people will combine Paraben radicals to reduce the dose of this substance, but Paraben is still considered a rather toxic substance that affects your health.

Harmful effects of parabens in cosmetics

Causes allergies and skin cancer risk

This has been confirmed by the research of Nagel JE and colleagues since 1988. Products such as perfumes, makeup removers, lotions, etc. contain a lot of Parabens which can cause irritation to people with skin. sensitive, prone to allergies .

In addition, many studies show that when applied to the skin, Methylparaben can react with UVB rays in the sun, increasing the likelihood of skin aging and DNA damage.

This makes your skin vulnerable to damage due to a decrease in the skin’s resistance . Leads to the skin being easily affected by the external environment, increasing the risk of skin cancer .

Breast cancer

Much evidence in the course of research by experts shows that there is a link between parabens in cosmetics and breast cancer .

However, many researchers such as Philip W. Harvey and David J. Everett, or Dr. Richard Sullivan of Cancer Research UK said further studies are needed on the effects of parabens to confirm for sure if this is one of the causes of breast cancer.

Although parabens’ ability to cause breast cancer is still controversial, there is evidence to confirm that parabens can affect the female hormone estrogen , which if used in excess can reduce fertility .

Therefore, be careful when using products containing Parabens in the armpit, chest and neck area to protect health.

Reduced fertility in men

Propylparaben was shown to reduce male fertility in a study by S.

Oishi of the Public Health Research Institute in Tokyo entitled “Effects of propylparaben on the male reproductive system”.

In addition, another study also showed that Butylparaben can cause a decrease in the amount and affect the normal functioning of sperm .

How to recognize Parabens in cosmetics?

The only way to know is to refer to the ingredients on the product’s packaging . Parabens usually appear in the middle or near the bottom of the ingredient list.

The names of parabens are always accompanied by the word “~Paraben” (in the English composition table).

Here are the most common types of Parabens:

Prohibited types:

• isopropylparaben
• isobutylparaben
• pentylparaben
• phenylparaben
• benzylparaben

Types not yet banned:

• methylparaben
• ethylparaben
• propylparaben
• butylparaben

Some product pictures with Parabens:

Parabens are still controversial because of their harmful effects on humans. With the above information, I’m sure you understand what parabens are so that you can choose safe products for your health.

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