The composition of cosmetics is a set of complex names of chemicals that are often incomprehensible to most consumers. The person is arranged so that all incomprehensible frightens us. Therefore, information that appeared in media that parabens, as a component of cosmetic products, can cause breast cancer, is horrifying and makes it necessary to look for goods marked paraben-free on the shelves. In this article, we will talk about the causes of parabens used in the production of cosmetics, and whether we should be afraid.
What are parabens and why are they?
In the manufacture of 85% of skin and hair care products parabens are used. These complex substances have been known to mankind since 1920 and are widely used as a preservative in the production of not only deodorants or shower gels but also pharmaceuticals and even bakery products. They are a derivative of benzoic acid. Manufacturers value parabens for their low cost and high efficiency in controlling the growth of a population of pathogenic microorganisms. Methyl-, isobutyl-, propyl, and other forms of synthetically manufactured parabens prolong the life of the product while they do not have toxic properties and are practically hypoallergenic.
So are the parabens dangerous?
The hype about the dangers of these substances that make up cosmetics went up after the results of some expert studies on their carcinogenicity were published. It is said that an etheric form of parabens was detected in breast cancer. However, after many years and many additional studies, scientists concluded that the scientifically proven and reliable fact that oncological diseases of female breasts from prolonged use of deodorants is absent. Moreover, the initial studies were found to be inaccurate. Currently, there are no laws prohibiting the use of parabens in cosmetics manufacture, even in Japan, where the most stringent legislation is in this regard. The result of various discussions between scientists and manufacturers was a reduction in the permissible concentration of these substances in cosmetics to 0.4-0.8%.
“Paraben-free” cosmetics
In order to increase sales and win consumer confidence, many manufacturers began to make cosmetics with paraben-free marks. However, this is not really true. Natural cosmetics can not be stored for months. Therefore, many of these cosmetic products include parabens, but under another name (sodium benzoate, etc.). This is a kind of marketing move. Cosmetics with natural preservatives in form of the essential oils and other substances can cause serious allergic reactions.
