Parabens in cosmetics are used almost everywhere. How do these components affect human health? Is it worth it to use such products?
Why is paraben used in cosmetics?
The safety of components is always debated. Manufacturers claim that the ingredients are healthy, and environmentalists and doctors claim the dangers. But if there is paraben in the composition of the product, it is necessary to pay attention to this. Typically, these components are used as preservatives. The most commonly used are propyl paraben, methyl paraben and butyl paraben. As a rule, in one product several components of the group are used, and in combination with preservatives. This approach helps to extend
shelf life and provide protection against microorganisms.
Paraben in cosmetics is not at all a rare occurrence. It is used in creams, decorative products, shampoos, shower gels, etc.
To determine the presence of the components of this group is simple - read the product composition.
Paraben in cosmetics: danger
Repeatedly the safety of these components has been called into question. A few minutes after applying cosmetics, parabens penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. As part of a study of breast cancers in 18 of 20 cases, these substances were found in tissues.
It is believed that these components do not penetrate the digestive system and are localized in adjacent tissues. Moreover, they do not change and are not excreted from the body. The effect of these substances is not fully understood.
It is also believed that paraben in cosmetics can mimic estrogen, as well as increase the expression of genes regulated by estradiol. It is suggested that, because of this feature, paraben in cosmetics can lead to the development of cancer. It is also known that it can cause allergic reactions.
Natural cosmetics without parabens
Thanks to the use of modern technologies, it is possible to create herbal tinctures that are stored for 2-3 years, moisturizing oils with a shelf life of 18 months. If you decide that you only need paraben-free cosmetics, you need to study the list of ingredients very carefully. Manufacturers are required to indicate all substances in the composition. It is quite easy to determine the presence of harmful components - they contain the word "paraben" in the name. But you should not be fooled by advertising tricks and consider useful any means that do not include this component. Sometimes other, no less harmful ingredients are used.
Therefore, it is better to choose cosmetics marked with certain certificates. For example, EcoSert or CosmeBIO. Among the most well-known manufacturers, one can mention Natura Siberika, Planet Organika, Organik Shop, Madara and others. The funds of these companies are relatively inexpensive, often even cheaper than chemical analogues. However, you can be sure of the effectiveness of the acquired funds and their safety. There are more expensive products, including, for example, funds under the maras of "Bio2You", "Organix", "Colors of Life", etc. The last company sells goods according to the MLM system. However, similar components can be found in other cosmetics, which are several times cheaper.