Looking behind the labels // Parabens

Many of us use cosmetics and health-care products without looking in detail at the ingredients. We trust that what we are using on our bodies is safe and has had the appropriate tests to ensure no nasty side effects - but do we really know what is in the products that we use? There has been a recent trend for products to include paraben-free and organic labels, but why is this? What are parabens, and should we be actively trying to avoid them?

What are Parabens?

Essentially parabens are chemical compounds that are used in cosmetics, health-care products and even some foods to preserve and prolong their life. They act to kill mould and fungi, thus helping the product to stay fresh and have a longer shelf life. Sounds pretty convenient for both companies and consumers, however parabens have received negative press due to their link to cancer.

Chemical structure of a paraben (a para-hydroxybenzoate) - what a mouthful!

Why are some people worried about Parabens?

Parabens have been linked to cancer, specifically breast cancer. Parabens have caused worry as they have an ability to mimic the hormone oestrogen - which is known to have a major role in the development of breast cancer. It is still not clear whether parabens contribute to the development of breast cancer, but they have been found in some breast cancer tumours. 

The chemical was found in 99% of samples from 40 women with breast cancer in a study by the University of Reading in 2004. Though this percentage seems worryingly high, this study did not compare the cancerous samples against women with healthy breast tissue - thus it does not prove that parabens are a cause of the cancer. It is important to note that the link between parabens and cancer has neither been proven or disproven. However, as a result of these studies those with a family history of breast cancer (myself included) may choose to opt for paraben-free alternatives to eliminate any possible cancer risks.

How do you look for Parabens?

Parabens are used in many different products as they are a cheap way to preserve goods. As they are so readily used, it can be difficult to find effective products that are paraben-free. If you are interested in using paraben-free products look out for labels and stickers stating that the product contains no parabens. Alternatively you can look at the ingredients. The most commonly used parabens are:

• methylparaben
• ethylparaben
• propylparaben
• butylparaben
• heptylparaben
• isobutylparaben

...though there are others.

How do you avoid Parabens?
There are many paraben-free brands available on the market and more companies are beginning to ditch parabens in favour of more natural preservatives. Some great paraben-free brands include: 

• Good Things
• Boots Botanics
• Badger
• Yes To
• Nivea's Pure & Natural range
• Pai Skincare
• Balance me
• Amie

Some paraben-free products replace parabens in favour of organic acids that act to preserve products without the need for parabens. Sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate and diazolidinyl urea are just three examples of these organic acids. If you are interested in paraben-free alternatives or organic products The Organic Pharmacy is a great resource for looking up and learning more about organic ingredients.

It is a personal choice whether or not to avoid parabens, but either way I think that it is important for consumers to be aware of what is in the products they use. Take a minute to look at the ingredients, if a product is packed full of unpronounceable chemicals maybe consider what you are putting onto your body. Personally my ethos is to try and avoid as many chemicals as I can as a precautionary measure, but it can be a bit of a hassle so it is not for everyone!

What are your thoughts on parabens? Do you worry about the chemicals that are in your health-care products? If you have any questions or comments please leave them below.

Sources: NHS UK, Wikipedia, Paraben.co.uk, breastcancerfund.org