Parabens is the name for a class of preservatives, widely used in cosmetics. The various types are: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, isopropylparaben and isobutylparaben.
Parabens are molecules typically found in products like lotions, shampoo and make-up, and they stop fungus, bacteria and other microbes from growing and prevent the product from breaking down. They thereby prevent the product from rotting, thus giving you an infection or making contact dermatitis or eczema worse. They are also used in these products to reduce the risk of developing eczema. Compared to other preservatives, some types of parabens are better for the skin than others, as they are both efficient against bacteria and mild on the skin. As a result, only few develop allergy to parabens. The EU regulates the use of parabens in cosmetics and determines the maximum concentration of parabens allowed in products.
Some studies have indicated that parabens mimic the primary female sex hormone oestrogen, meaning that the parabens have the same effect as this hormone on the body. Other studies have shown that it has the same effect at male sex hormone, and others again have shown no influence on male reproduction.
Results from animal testing are not conclusive in terms of the effects of parabens, and in addition, it is difficult to interpret studies with cell cultures and organs isolated form animals. Because of this, it is difficult to assess whether the substances are hormonally disruptive for humans. In addition, we do not know how deeply the parabens are able to penetrate the skin or how quickly the body is able to break them down, and these are important factors in assessing whether they are harmful.
It is important to distinguish between the various types of parabens, as they have different effects. EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has assessed the use of parabens in consumer products. The Committee concluded that methylparaben and ethylparaben are completely safe to use in the concentrations used today. However, the EU prohibited the use of isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, phenylparaben, benzylparaben and pentylparaben in 2013 due to a lack of data, and these parabens are therefore not allowed in products after October 2015.
With the knowledge we have of parabens today, there is no need to worry about using cosmetics containing parabens. However, we still lack a lot of knowledge about potentially hormone-disrupting agents – including parabens. Products with an ecolabel on the packaging do not contain any substances present on the EU’s list of potentially hormone-disrupting agents. By choosing these products, you can avoid hormone disturbances.
Sources:
1. http://www.a-apoteket.dk/629/hvad-er-parabener
2. http://mst.dk/groenne-tips/din-personlige-pleje/faelles-baggrund/kosmetik-og-parabener/
