The Perils Of Parabens

May

Snapdragon77 asked: Everyone is afraid of PARABENS! The product line that I use (Bioelements) lists methylparaben and propylparaben as the last ingredients, and I know that they are preservatives, but what do I tell a frightened clientele who have just heard “Parabens=Bad!”

paraben preservative
The Left Brain Responds:

What are parabens?

Parabens are preservatives used in nearly every kind of cosmetic. They are put in formulas in small amounts to prevent the growth of disease-causing microbes. Without preservatives, cosmetics would be much more dangerous to use. They have been used in cosmetics for at least 20 years and are quite effective at killing microbes.

It’s not surprising that parabens raise so many questions. Stories about these ingredients and the perils of using products that contain them are found everywhere on the net. A quick google search of parabens and cancer results in over 300,000 hits! Sites like this and this extol the evils of parabens. Of course, sites like this and this state a much different, less alarming position. So who should you believe?

Here’s what the FDA has to say about the subject. Their position is best summed up in the following quote, FDA believes that at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of cosmetics containing parabens. But they are still looking at data.

And the primary governmental agency (in the United States) that receives money to research such questions, the National Institute for Health, has this position paper. Basically, researchers at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) are not aware of any conclusive evidence linking the use of underarm antiperspirants or deodorants and the subsequent development of breast cancer.

Why do people think parabens are bad?

So where did the furor about parabens and cancer come from? In 2004, Dr Philippa Darbre at the University of Reading published a study in the Journal of Applied Toxicology that said her group tested 20 different human breast tumors and found parabens in all of them. Neither she nor anyone else could explain how they got there or why they were there. They also couldn’t say whether normal tissue had parabens. This raised the possibility that the parabens could have something to do with the cancer, but no one could explain what was going on. And since then, there still hasn’t been an explanation. This doesn’t mean parabens have anything to do with cancer. We just can’t say they don’t.

So, what do we think?

Here at the Beauty Brains, we have to side with the majority of the scientific research. Namely, at the moment there’s no significant reason to be concerned. The notion that parabens are a major cause of breast cancer is just not true! It’s possible that they might play a role in breast cancer but there is no conclusive evidence that supports this idea. No matter how bad parabens are, microbes are much worse.

Many cosmetic industry suppliers are offering alternatives to parabens. Privately, these companies acknowledge that parabens are more effective. They also do not believe there are any real safety issues, but it is an opportunity to create new products so they are taking it. Unfortunately, every other effective preservative such as DMDM Hydantoin (a formaldehyde releasing ingredient) or Kathon (synthetic) have potential safety issues. And suggested alternatives like grapefruit seed extract · phenoxyethanol · potassium sorbate · sorbic acid · tocopherol (vitamin E) · vitamin A (retinyl) · vitamin C (ascorbic acid) don’t really work too well. The available preservatives aren’t perfect, but they are the best there is. And they are certainly better than using nothing. Bacteria, yeast, and mold could really kill you!

The Beauty Brains bottom line.

Preservative alarmists may have a point and the industry is constantly on the lookout for new, effective ingredients. They just haven’t found any. But the risk posed from these ingredients is so small that it’s not worth worrying about. There are much more critical things you can do to avoid cancer like not smoking, avoiding excessive sun exposure, exercising regularly and eating a well-balanced, low fat diet. Don’t waste your energy fretting about the preservatives in your cosmetics.

81 Responses to “The Perils Of Parabens”

thebeautybrains.com » Should you use self-preserving skin products? Says:

[...] And the Left Brain Loquates… This is an excellent question and one that is likely on the minds of a fair number of consumers of cosmetics. The ideal answer is YES, weâ€™d much prefer using a self-preserving skin care line. Unfortunately, there are currently no reliable self-preserving skin care or hair care products. Based on the best data available today, we could never recommend using a cosmetic that does not contain some kind of preservative. [...]
Jen Says:

Thank you so much for your insights and research into the Paraben issue. There is certainly a lot of hype right now. Although, I believe it is good to consider looking into possible alternative preservatives to put into our cosmetics. Just as long as other potentially more dangerous preservatives like DMDM Hydantoin or Kathon are NOT used. Very interesting stuff…
camille Says:

i hadbreast cancer 5 years ago and my hormones were so out of control. i took a salvi test and it showed thta my levels were high, i stayed away from parabens and now my levels are fine and i feel great. if you had cancer ,you must stay away from parabens
thebeautybrains Says:

Camille, thanks so much for your story. I’m glad you are feeling better now.

Remember, cancer is a complicated disease and it is not so simple to blame a single factor for making you sick.
What is all the fuss about Parabens? « Mythbuster Beauty Says:

[...] *Here is another very interesting article posted with some interesting thoughts on parabens: http://thebeautybrains.com/2006/05/02/the-perils-of-parabens/#comment-20428 [...]
Melanie Says:

Hi. I work with a plastic surgeon, and although he specializes in tummy tuck in st louis, I read a lot of the magazines that come in here, and a lot of the articles have been about parabens. Obviously, as someone who works in the beauty business, I’m interested. I’m also interested, because I’m a woman and a lot of the products I use contain parabens. Here’s what I know (remember, I’m not a doctor, so I’m certainly no expert): from what I’ve read, scientists seem to think that it would be impossible for parabens to basically go up stream. In other words, the body is constantly using sweat to move toxins to the surface, to flush them out. Parabens would have to somehow go against that flow to somehow cause cancer. I don’t know, but it sounds logical.
Jen Says:

Several medications are delivered into the bloodstream through creams and patches that are applied on the skin. Such as hormone replacement creams, birth control patches, and nicotine patches. If the upstream method holds water, (sorry), how are these medications absorbed through the skin and into our bloodstreams?
Left Brain Says:

While a few medications are delivered through patches on the skin, most molecules are not small enough to get delivered that way. For years scientists have been trying to create a patch to deliver insulin through the skin but to no avail. Some things, like insulin, parabens and most other chemicals just don’t go through the skin.
Jen Says:

That is good information to know. Thanks Left Brain!
Angel Says:

“Don’t waste your energy fretting about the preservatives in your cosmetics.”

???!!! Holy hell! Somebody has to! The FDA is doing a bang up job lately.

I guess I don’t have to ‘waste my energy’ fretting about the other dozen or so drugs and ingredients the FDA was forced removed from public availability after wrongful death lawsuits were brought to court- and WON. It’s our job as responsible consumers to ask questions and know what we are putting in/on our body. If we don’t question it, then we are effectively allowing companies to say and do whatever they want.

Oh and btw, those parabens in most deodorants cause my underarms to break out in cracked, chafed, BLEEDING rashes. Which is why I have to go with deodorants which do not contain them.

Next you’ll be trying to convince us to sprinkle parabens on our morning bagel because it’ll make our boobs grow bigger.
Left Brain Says:

Blah, blah, blah. You spout all these “facts” and provide no proof.

What COSMETICS were using these “dozen or so drugs and ingredients the FDA was forced removed from public availability”?

What’s your proof that it’s the parabens that are causing your underarm bleeding? It’s more likely caused by something else (like a fragrance ingredient).

Your arguments add nothing to the conversation. If you have some proof or facts to add, please feel free. Making sarcastic remarks only exposes that you have only emotion to back up your opinions and are devoid of any real data.

Incidentally, we don’t encourage anyone to sprinkle chemicals on their bagels. Also, there is no proof that parabens (or anything else) will make boobs grow bigger. But if you’re aware of some research that suggests otherwise, we’d be happy to look at it.

thanks
Left Brain
nicola Griffin Says:

RE-PARABENS
I am a nutritionist and all I can say is that for patients who cannot swallow tablets I use a vitamin C cream which is highly absorbable! With this in mind we must all be very careful what we put day in day out on our skin.
A very good new Skincare range from the UK is REN they use no parabens,sulphates etc and are wonderful products.www.renskincare.com
thebeautybrains Says:

RE-Vitamin C

Two things.

1. Parabens are not the same as vitamin C so their skin absorption profile is irrelevant to whether parabens absorb. There are a few things that can be delivered topically to the bloodstream, however, most things can not. This is why people who have diabetes can’t simply wear an insulin patch instead of getting daily injections. In this regard, parabens are more like insulin than Vitamin C.

2. I’m a bit skeptical that a Vitamin C cream will have much effect on the concentration of vitamin C in your bloodstream. A quick look at Pub Med revealed that even with lasers and microdermabrasion you don’t get penetration of Vitamin C in the bloodstream. Do you have a study that you can show which demonstrates Vitamin C absorption into the blood stream from topical delivery?
Nigel Horsley Says:

I would point out that Dr. Philippa Darbre, of the UK, is a woman and and not a ‘he’ as previously indicated above. Her details can be found here.

Another outstanding researcher is America’s Dr. Devra Davis of the University of Pittsburgh. Check her out here and see the very latest news today on lead (remember the recent scandal over lead in lipstick).

As for parabens, and phthalates for that matter – better safe than sorry so avoid them, especially if you are pregnant or contemplating getting pregnant.

Lavera’s cosmetics and skin care products have organic and natural ingredients and contain none of the controversial substances.
thebeautybrains Says:

Thanks for the clarification Nigel.

I didn’t think the lead story was a big scandal.

Dr. Darbre may be onto something however, she has one un-reproduced study that shows parabens are found in breast tumors but it also shows they are found in non-tumor tissue.

It’s yet to be proven that the two are related. But scientists are continuing to look into it.

As far as Lavera goes, you make some incredible claims, but don’t provide a list of ingredients for your products. You must be preserving the products with some kind of nasty preservative. The packaging you’re using is standard stock bottles so there’s nothing special there. Why do you hide your ingredients? Please let the rest of us know where we can find ingredient lists so we can verify your incredible claims.
The Beauty Brains » Blog Archive » Is Clinique Careful About Their Packaging? Says:

[...] in most cosmetics will keep bacteria from growing. Of course, that means more “chemicals” like parabens must be added to the formula. But then again, preservatives need to be added to the product whether [...]
The Beauty Brains » Blog Archive » How shampoos work - part 1 Says:

[...] Preservatives are added to the formula to ensure the product doesn’t become contaminated by bacteria, mold, or yeast. Common preservatives include parabens and urea [...]
Wynter Raine Says:

First I’d like to say I enjoy reading this site (wealth of information).
But I still have some more questions pertaining to the use of chemicals (mostly preservsatives) used in cosmetics & beauty products.

1. If these chemicals (preservatives) are being used in several beauty products that we use everyday. Then can we assume that its plausible…that we may be using a greater amount every day – than the (FDA) recommended amount?
2.I thought that when ever the FDA allows a chemical to be used in human products – that they also give provisions as to the maximum amounts that may be used?
3. I am concerned that the amount of(preservatives) I use on a daily basis in multiply products. The amounts may be greater than I aknowledge & perhaps could be potentially harmful.
4. I am concerned of using (preservatives) in beauty products – for instance if (paraben) is included in the ingredient of say – your lipstick, lip gloss, toothe paste, lip liner, face cream, hand cream. Then how do you know how much you are actually ingesting on a daily basis & whether or not it is harmful to you?
5. I was under the impression from various data that I have read – that parabens are an “estrogen like compound” is there any truth to this claim?
Looking forward to your feedback on these issues. I want to use the most effective products that I can & still be healthy.

Thankyou, Wynter
Suzie Says:

This is not about the concern of parabens and cancer, but another issue with them that may provide an answer for those who feel they are a problem for them. Parabens are benzene based. This fact took me a long time to discover. It turns out I am allergic to benzene and it derivatives causing skin rash and respiratory problem (predominately swelling of the nasal passages). Sulfa, also from benzene can be deadly to some who have this allergy. Since I have strived to remove all product using these derivatives from my cosmetics, prescriptions and foods after 4 years I am no longer plagued by rashes and breathing problems on a daily basis. I occasionally get into something, but life is much better now. Discovering what is a benzene derivative is not easy as there are many. Some I have discovered are benzocaine, benzalkonium chloride, benzoates, etc. I hope this helps someone else to stop suffering.
thebeautybrains Says:

Wynter,

Thanks for your comments. As to your questions…

1. For most chemicals used as preservatives, the FDA sets no recommended daily amount.

2. The FDA does not set levels of most cosmetic chemicals.

3. There is no evidence that the amounts of preservatives you’re exposed to on a daily basis are harmful.

4. Things like this can never be “known”. However, there is no evidence that ingestion of preservatives from beauty products causes any problems. There is evidence that improperly preserved cosmetics will cause disease. Which of these things would you rather protect yourself from?

5. This is what the FDA has to say about the estrogen effect of parabens. “In a review of the estrogenic activity of parabens, (Golden et al., in Critical Reviews in Toxicology, 2005) the author concluded that based on maximum daily exposure estimates, it was implausible that parabens could increase the risk associated with exposure to estrogenic chemicals.” So, there is truth to the claim but there is no evidence that it is a problem.

There are so many things in this world to worry about. Parabens in your cosmetics are just not one of them.

Suze,

You provide an interesting and different perspective. Thanks. Is this allergy something that your doctor told you about?
Suzie Says:

Briefly, yes. It took two allergists and nearly a year to track down the offender as being benzene based starting with a reaction to sulfa, then benzalkonium chloride and finally benzocaine. With reactions to each of these, we then started looking at the benzene ring and eliminating foods, lotions and prescriptions one by one.

I now read all labels carefully every time I buy something and if I don’t recognized an item I pass on getting it or check to see if it is benzene based. (The every time is necessary as product ingredients are sometimes changed without any notice.)
Jane Says:

Thanks for this discussion of parabens. I think you’re right that the paraben-alternatives you mention aren’t obviously safer than parabens. But you neglect to mention another option–don’t use preservatives at all! Instead, use common grocery store ingredients to satisfy your beauty needs, so you don’t have to buy commercial products. I never would’ve thought this was possible/practical a year ago, but since then, I’ve gradually started eliminating conventional products (for both healthy and enviro reasons) and am really pleased to be using the following substitutes:

shampoo–a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse, followed by a tiny bit of Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap (ok, so Dr. B’s is commercial, an exception)

conditioner–a few drops of jojoba oil

cleanser–jojoba oil with a few drops of lemon and/or peppermint essential oils (this is a nice combo for my oily/acne-prone skin)

toner–diluted apple cider vinegar or lemon juice or nothing

moisturizer–a few drops jojoba oil, neat, if needed

deodorant–crystal rock, leaves me smelling good but I’m still sweaty, but I *know* there’s nothing potentially unsafe in it

facial scrub–a water and baking soda paste

deep moisturizing (for hair, skin, or under eyes)–olive oil, neat

light moisturizing (or skin or under eyes)–almond oil

Just google “homemade beauty recipes” and you should find more as well. These are just what’s worked for me so far. Happy hunting!
thebeautybrains Says:

Jane,

Thanks for the tips. While your recommendations can be effective they will not give everyone the excellent results that properly formulated beauty products will. However, they are worth a try.

One thing to watch out for however. Natural and homemade solutions are not preserved and thus will not be safe after a certain amount of time. Don’t use things that you haven’t made fresh.
Jasmine Says:

My dermatologist told me that I should avoid parabens because of my eczema, I don’t see how they would harm healthy skin or else they wouldn’t add them to products. I guess the pros out weigh the cons.
Nigel Horsley. Says:

My apologies for not getting back onto this site sooner and answering the question posed about ingredients in Lavera products.
Please visit the German website http://www.lavera.de, go to the little Union Jack flag sign top left so you get the English version. Then, go to the search button at the top right, enter the word ingredients.
We don’t use synthetic ingredients.
Our shelf life longevity (2+ years) comes from the incredibly stringent production processes. We also invest in lined tubes so the contents cannot become tainted.
I would encourage you visit our North American website http://www.lavera.com, and the news releases under ‘Press’. We are taking the high ground in trying to alert the public to the dangers of the contents of the majority of mainstream skincare products. Synthetic estrogens are turning up in our environment in fish, and they’ve come from sunscreens!
Nigel Horsley. Says:

Please visit the Organic Consumers Association and see their campaign against companies ‘misbranded’ as having organic personal care products. The website is at http://www.organicconsumers.org.
NO personal care products certified by USDA or Germany’s BDIH, were found to contain any 1-4, Dioxanes.
It remains a source of puzzlement to me that this entire subject recieves so little attention in the mainstream press. African American women appear to be particularly vulnerable to effects of chemicals in personal care products according to Dr. Devra Davis, at the University of Pittsburgh, a world renowned environmental oncologist. Worth visiting her website too at:http://environmentaloncology.org/staff_davis.htm. She’s a true American heroine.
Nigel Horsley. Says:

A couple of websites worth visiting:
http://www.organicconsumers.org. Again use the search button and enter ‘parabens.’
Also, it’s worth visiting http://environmentaloncology.org/staff_davis.htm Again, enter the word parabens.
I have mentioned Dr. Devra Davis in a previous post. She’s an environmental oncologist at the University of Pittsburgh, and, in my opinion a true American heroine.
Her team believes that African American women appear to be particularly vulnerable to the effects of synthetic estrogens in personal care products with earlier onset of puberty and higher and earlier rates of breast cancers.
Nigel Horsley. Says:

Please check http://www.organicconsumers.org and enter ‘parabens.’

Another excellent website is http://www.safecosmetics.org.
The Beauty Brains » Blog Archive » 7 Reseasons There Aren’t More Preservative Free Cosmetics Says:

[...] all the time. People wonder why compounds with potential safety issues like formaldehyde or parabens are used. Should they use self-preserving cosmetics? They also ask why cosmetic companies [...]
7 Reasons There Aren’t More Preservative Free Cosmetics | Beauty Secrets Blog Says:

[...] all the time. People wonder why compounds with potential safety issues like formaldehyde or parabens are used. Should they use self-preserving cosmetics? They also ask why cosmetic companies don’t [...]
Tony Says:

Love your website!
But in the name of correctness I have to inform you that Dr. Philippa Darbre is a female, not a male. (You refered to her as “he” and “him” several times.)
By the way, she agrees with you. Her study alarmed her but she has not yet seen any significant link between parabens and cancer, just a general concern.
thebeautybrains Says:

Thanks Tony. I’ll make the corrections. Can’t believe we missed that one.
Kimberly Says:

Saying that the FDA says there are no current risks shouldnt be much of a comfort. The FDA hasnt done a very good job so far. Americans are sicker than ever despite the steady increase in funding for “research”. These are the same people who allow our meat and dairy products to have steroids and hormones maybe we need to consider the idea that just because someone tells us to trust them that we should. Im still looking for an organic deodorant that actually works well
Dawna Says:

First of all, each and every one of us has our own unique genetic makeup. One person may never get sick from any kind of chemical or anything, but the next person may die from it. With that being said, read on. There are some people who after repeated exposures to these things such as parabens, household chemicals, pesticides and other various additives and preservatives become very ill and can no longer function. Their immune systems start to react to EVERYTHING, their neurological, endocrine, pulmonary, digestive & cardiovascular systems have been damaged. Keep in mind that some parts of the human body cannot heal themselves such as the neurological system. Whereas, the liver can regenerate and heal itself if the damage is minimal.
These people have to live in a controlled environment, eat organic food, use specially formulated HANDMADE personal care items that have NO PRESERVATIVES in it, not to mention the other monumental list of NO NO’S and have little contact with other people that use perfumes, colognes, scented laundry soap and so on. Parabens are in all these things even food additives and preservatives. It’s called chemical injury!! Get a clue!! Some people need to get busy and do some serious reading and rethinking.
Dawna Says:

http://www.chemicalinjury.net
http://www.mcsrr.org
http://www.ciin.org

Do general searches for chemical injury and I assure you will find all kinds of info.

You are only getting the info from the research that the chemical companies want you to hear about. The other research that was conducted that the chemical companies paid for never saw the light of day or the research was terminated when it was revealed the negative effects on humans!!
nancy Says:

“Americans are sicker than ever despite the steady increase in funding for “research”.”

I would disagree with this. People in Westernized countries live longer now than ever before. With age also comes illness.

“There are some people who after repeated exposures to these things such as parabens, household chemicals, pesticides and other various additives and preservatives become very ill and can no longer function. Their immune systems start to react to EVERYTHING, their neurological, endocrine, pulmonary, digestive & cardiovascular systems have been damaged.”

I see these claims repeatedly in newsletters sent to my father. Interestingly, these newsletters are also hawking outrageously overpriced nutritional supplements. There is a lot of money to be made by creating and exploiting fear.
Dawna Says:

Hey Nancy! Get a clue!!!!!! My husband is only 41 and has to live in a controlled environment. I’m 38 and it took 15 years for the doctors to figure out why my immune system crashed! News flash honey, there’s NO CURE for environmental illness!!! Do you know what’s making us sick? Apparently not! Scented laundry detergents, scented dryer sheets, perfumes & colognes, air fresheners, disinfectants & various chemicals in household cleaners are full of fragrance that poison us with every breath we take. And that is a very short list but there are more things too many to list here. These items contain petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances. Air fresheners are actually air poisoners!!! In my opinion, you need to do some serious reading about chemical injury and environmental illness and not be making remarks about things you know NOTHING about!!
These overpriced nutritional supplements I agree are overpriced but they have NO PRESERVATIVES, NO CHEMICALS & NO ALLERGENS. They also have NO HIDDEN harmful ingredients for people with environmental illness.
thebeautybrains Says:

Dawna,

Since the nutritional supplement business is not regulated by the government, how do you know that they contain no preservatives or allergens? Why should we trust the claims of a company who isn’t independently tested? There is really nothing to stop them from using cheap, preservative containing ingredients and telling people they don’t have them.

We encourage people to stay away from all supplements for this exact reason. There is no regulation and they can be dangerous.

Incidentally, everything contain CHEMICALS. Matter = chemicals.
hopealso Says:

“There is a lot of money to be made by creating and exploiting fear.”

Ah, but there is even more money to be made by manufacturing household and beauty products with a shelf life of 2-3 years spanning multiple market positions! Much, much more money. Just ask one of the largest and most successful marketers and manufacturers in the world: Proctor and Gamble.

Thank you Jane, for your list of simple ingredients that can inspire and empower us to keep our money in our pockets and our bodies clear of “potential harm.” We’ve been looking for shampoo alternatives and your idea did the trick! Mmmm, my husband’s hair is so silky soft to run the hands through. Vinegar rinse! Who’d a thought?

It seems that evidence against parabens is inconclusive — a “possible” link, but no proof.

Why use a product that is “possibly” linked to cancer when you can simply avoid it?

I do agree however, that health risks from spoilage can be much worse than preservatives. I write about ways to avoid those problems in my most recent post, A Guide to Natural Skin Care Preservatives.

To your health and independence!

Mama Hope
Dawna Says:

I agree about some supplements being dangerous. The supplements that my husband and I take have been tested by our doctors lab for purity and they are actually free of all chemicals, chemical preservatives and common allergens. Oh, and by the way, not everything contains petrochemicals.
Are Cosmetics From The Cosmetics Cop Really A Good Choice? | The Beauty Brains Says:

[...] Finally, Dr. Brandt uses a pair of parabens to preserve his product. And while there’s nothing proven wrong with these preservatives some companies have decided to remove them from their formulas to appease consumers. So, Paula uses phenoxyethanol instead. While it’s not as effective at preservation, it does impart a nice rose scent to the product. (For more info see our post on the Perils of Parabens.) [...]
maxi Says:

Dawna: Nothing is chemical free. Everything, even ‘natural’ things, are made of chemicals. Unless you have a degree in chemistry please refrain from making statements about a subject you aren’t educated in.

I did not know about the cancer link with parabens. I heard that they can irritate dry skin. I bought products without them in and did not notice the difference, so now I don’t really care.
Kimberly Says:

I had a outbreak of blisters all over my mouth which initially I thought might be coldsores. I took my medicine and it didn’t go away. Infact, it got worse. It was very itchy and sore. It eventually covered both of my lips.

I went to doctor after doctor, first it was inpetigo, then it was just a rash. Finally, I went to my dermatologist…and I had to undergo allergy testing. Turns out I’m allergic to parabens. Now, since most cosmetics include paraben I must screen the fine print to see what I’m putting on my face. It really frustrating. But, I have to.

I just had another outbreak on my left eyelid. And, it was because an eyeshadow I used didn’t have the ingredients listed. So from now on, if they aren’t listed I can’t use those either.

It’s really annoying. =[[
DOWN WITH PARABENS!
A Method to the Madness? | elephant journal Says:

[...] substances” is debatable, we do know that Method doesn’t include any cancer-causing parabens or phthalates, and most bottles are made from 100% recycled [...]
Stacey Says:

Hello! I am an esthetician and a massage therapist, I use a product line with parabens in it. I use it because if I hada line that didn’t have them in it my use isn’t as high to how fast i would needto use my products. I am curiouse if using these products actually is bad for some of my clients that have had cancer…I don’t think it does ebcause it’s just a preservative.. a client of mine told me she didn’t and can’t use any products that have preservatives in them because she has had cancer and could harm her immune system…as she was telling me this she was eating pizza and soda. Does this make any sense? What do I tell her if anything?
thank you! stacey
Laura Says:

July 2002 issue of the Archives of Toxicology , Dr. S. Oishi of the Department of Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Research Laboratory of Public Health reported that exposure of newborn male mammals to butylparaben “adversely affects the secretion of testosterone and the function of the male reproductive system.” That is just in males….and females that actually produce the very hormone paraben emulates? If just find it unfortunate that you are relying on the “conclusions” of the FDA as to the safety of paraben when it is a government organization greatly influenced by lobbyists and the very people that make these chemical ingredients. Are we really that naive to believe that what the FDA approves is safe? Where did common sense go? Scientific studies supported by the very companies that make the chemical ingredients, showing how “safe” parabens are just DON’T count.
Is Burt’s Bees Bodywash Bee-lievable? | 1800blogger Says:

[...] (methyl and propyl) have been given a clean bill of health. (Intrigued? Read more about the perils of parabens.) And just because a product claims to avoid “scary” ingredients, doesn’t mean it will clean [...]
Gypsi Says:

I have recently become aware about the concerns of Parabens. My thoughts are that if their is any cause for concern then that is a good enough reason not to use products that contain them. Cancer and disease only started coming around due to man made products and chemicals, etc. The FDA is run by money along with the pharmeceutical companies. Who can we believe? Splenda was approved when there were studies that proved it is a very toxic chemical for you. They are now trying to ban Stevia extract which is natural sugar from a flower! If we were to find natural remedies and eat chemival-free, what would happen to the pharmeceutical companies? They would lose a lot of money. Unfortunately our society is ran by money and economic gain, not with our best interests in mind. I choose to try and be chemical free and there are increasing options and ways for us to do it.
Anne M. Says:

As a medical doctor I always find it interesting when my patients are avoidant of studied pharmaceuticals and favor untested “natural” products. My favorite example is that of red yeast rice to lower cholesterol. I have patients that develop “muscle aches” when placed on a statin to lower their cholesterol. I often feel like these aches are more typical of arthritis aches and pains (though heaven forbid they take a recommended dose of an NSAID) more so than the actual side effect of the drug. Especially in patients that have heard about statin side effects from a “friend” or whatnot, and are resisitant to medications to begin with, or highlight the tiny print drug side effect cards and hand them to me whenever they come in for followups, etc. So, long story short, we have to take them off the statin. A few months later they come in and tell me all about the wonders of red yeast rice which they bought at a nutrition store for an exorbitant amount of money (compared with the possibility of using the prescription program at Walmart or elsewhere). I used to try explaining to these people that the chemical composition of red yeast rice is near identical to that of a statin…hence why it helps cholesterol. But they often don’t seem to listen. Ah well. I figure the real danger is letting their arteries clog, setting them up for the very real dangers of heart attack or stroke. So any way I can get them to address their cholesterol (a modifiable risk factor!) is score one for the team

And yes, cancer is a horrible killer. I wish people spending all this time with their makeup products spent half the time worrying about modifiable risks…like checking and treating cholesterol, exercising, eating right, not smoking….heart disease is still number one.
skeptic s Says:

One small, unrepeated study is supposed to be more important than 100s of previous studies that have shown no problems?

It’s not just the FDA that approves parabens. It’s approved around the world including the Japanese government, and the European Union. Are you saying that all these agencies are being paid by the cosmetic industry to cover up an unsafe ingredient? Nonsense.
Mary Says:

Rosemary is one of the best presevatives. There is a new company called Posergy that is making beauty products that are not only paraben free but totally free of all synthetic chemicals including SLS (sodium laurel sulfate) and alcohol free. They are using essential oil of rosemary as a preservaive. They guarantee a shelf life of one year which is the best guarantee you’ll get from any product including those with paraben preservatives. I have just started using the products and I could feel the positive effects after only a few days. A friend who has used the products for a few months now is stunningly radiant. I’m looking forward to the changes I expect to see in a few months time.
Mary Says:

BTW, I forgot to mention you will be very happy to find out the Posergy products are AFFORDABLE. The founder is a mother of 8. And she knows how expensive it can be as she has tried to raise her children as chemical free as possible. Her credentials, she is a Naturopathic Doctor and Certified Aromatherapist. I am so grateful that someone FINALLY made truely natural products with that are affordable to everyone. I suffered from severe pesticide poisoning starting in 2002. It took a year for me to be properly diagnosed. In that year I thought, “This is how I am going to die.” I suffered from acute stomache pains. I dropped 9 dress sizes during that time. Even water made me nauseous. I was extremely chemically sensitive. A simple task like cleaning my bathroom made me choke so hard that I nearly passed out. I try my best to avoid synthetic chemicals now. It isn’t easy though. I am so thrilled about these products that I have signed up to be a sales rep. I want everyone to know they can afford to buy truely natural products. This company is so new they don’t have their website up yet. So if you want more info you can email me at mary@thestorksbag.com
The Wandering Reader Says:

I found your article on parabens and I would have to say that while I agree with the scientific research, I can’t help but wonder if the research is ‘biased’ in an attempt to keep such a lucrative ingredient on the market.

I just read a book by Sarah Callard that talks about parabens being in most of the baby products on the market. You wrote a great deal about whether or not parabens cause cancer, but how do you feel about parabens being in baby products? Do you feel that they can potentially harm babies?
thebeautybrains Says:

Parabens are not a “lucrative” ingredient so this would not be an explanation for any bias. Preservatives are an added expense and if companies could make safe products without them, they would.

I have no concern about parabens in baby products as there is no scientific research supporting a conclusion that they harm babies.

The author’s suggestion that parabens are in “most” baby products on the market is debatable. I don’t know but I suspect that Sarah Callard is not a scientist and doesn’t let all the facts get in the way of her conclusions.
EWG Misleads Consumers about Parabens | The Beauty Brains Says:

[...] The Environmental Working Group gives a great illustration of why doing your research on the Internet won’t always get you the complete answer. Recently they came out with a story suggesting teenage girls around the country are contaminated with “toxic” chemicals throughout their blood. They took blood and urine samples from 20 teenage girls and found 16 chemicals including phthalates, parabens, triclosan and musks. According to the EWG, these compounds have been linked to cancer and hormone disruption. All 20 girls tested positive for parabens. [...]
EWG Misleads Consumers about Parabens | 1800blogger Says:

[...] The Environmental Working Group gives a great illustration of why doing your research on the Internet won’t always get you the complete answer. Recently they came out with a story suggesting teenage girls around the country are contaminated with “toxic” chemicals throughout their blood. They took blood and urine samples from 20 teenage girls and found 16 chemicals including phthalates, parabens, triclosan and musks. According to the EWG, these compounds have been linked to cancer and hormone disruption. All 20 girls tested positive for parabens. [...]
EWG Misleads Consumers about Parabens | Beauty Secrets Blog Says:

[...] The Environmental Working Group gives a great illustration of why doing your research on the Internet won’t always get you the complete answer. Recently they came out with a story suggesting teenage girls around the country are contaminated with “toxic” chemicals throughout their blood. They took blood and urine samples from 20 teenage girls and found 16 chemicals including phthalates, parabens, triclosan and musks. According to the EWG, these compounds have been linked to cancer and hormone disruption. All 20 girls tested positive for parabens. [...]
missjulied Says:

@Kimberly – I know this is an old post, but I just ran across it and I had the EXACT SAME symptoms with my paraben allergy! It was horrible! It took about a year to track it down, and finally required a patch test from a dermatologist.

I’m really glad that there are so many products that are paraben-free these days, I’m not sure what I would do otherwise.
A Method to the Madness? « Heather Mueller Says:

[...] substances” is debatable, we do know that Method doesn’t include any cancer-causing parabens or phthalates, and most bottles are made from 100% recycled [...]
Should You Say Yes To Carrots? | 1800blogger Says:

[...] studies have shown that the methyl and propyl parabens have no cause for concern. (You can read the details about parabens here.) [...]
Rod Cook Says:

Great Information

NIH Pubmed doesn’t have any startling new findings any different. The interesting thing is the research finding parabens in cancer cells HAS NOT BEEN REPLICATED!
Rod Cook Says:

FLESH EATING BACTERIA

My Aunt almost lost her leg. Obviously she should have been using a cosmetic with Methyl Paraben (or other).

There has been a big epidemic of flesh eating bacteria….

In fact on Pub Med there is a recent study on using Methyl paraben for Heprin patients because of the high danger of FLESH EATING STAPH in these patients.

There is also a 2008 global study finding no problems with parabens.

To go to Pub Med just put

PUB MED ENTRE in google and it will take you to the big Pub Med Search Engine… have a good time!

Rod
James Says:

If parabens are not absorbed by the skin why are they found in the human bloostream, urea and breast tissues ?

-Studies from Department of Toxicology, Tokyo (Laboratory of Public Health)show paraben (in mammals) “adversely affects the secretion of testosterone and the function of the male reproductive system. In the present study, it is shown that propyl paraben also adversely affects the hormonal secretion and the male reproductive functions.”

-Decreased testosterone ” may be a risk factor for cognitive decline and possibly for dementia of the Alzheimer’s type.”

-Other studies showDetection of parabens in human breast tumours ( Philip W. Harvey and David J. Everett)

-Other studies results (Department of Pharmacokinetics USA) “suggest chronic topical application of parabens may lead to prolonged estrogenic effects in skin as a result of inhibition of estrogen sulfotransferase activity”

There are tons of studies about the risks of parabens in our products.

Do you want other references ? look on google.
Left Brain Says:

Do a little more research and you will find your answer.

Parabens are a preservative used in FOOD products. They are in your bloodstream most likely because you eat them.
James Says:

There are no parabens in my food.
I live in France and never seen that in my food:Dr. Sue Barlow, Chair of EFSA’s AFC Panel explained:”its use is very limited by the food industry in the European Union”

They are in our bloodstream because parabens are absorbed acrooss the skin:
Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Brunel University:”The physicochemical properties of the parabens indicate that they can be absorbed
across skin, and that suggests a possible estrogenic hazard to humans”

A risk about the dangerousity of parabens is not non-existent.
thebeautybrains Says:

You don’t know whether parabens are in your food or not, but you do know they are allowed for use by European food producers. So, you can’t simply dismiss this more likely explanation.

Quoting experts is not evidence. Where is the scientifically controlled study that demonstrates parabens are penetrating the skin and are hazardous?

According to European scientists, there is no link between parabens and breast cancer.

Why are these experts wrong?
James Says:

I quote experts so you know I ‘ m not mading things up.

I don’t dismiss the fact that it could be in our foods (event thought it is restricted and btw why ?) but parabens eaten are not as dangerous as when it is absorbed throught the skin ( 10 times more acually) because and let me quote please:”when parabens are eaten, they are metabolised and lose the ester group, making them less strongly estrogen-mimicking.”

The fact that it is in our foods is less likely to be the explanation and is not the problem.

What studies shows parabens are absorbed by the skin?

-Department of Growth and Reproduction shows that butyl paraben is “systemically absorbed, metabolized and excreted in urine following application on the skin in a cream preparation”

-University of Nebraska, Dept of Food Science & Technology shows that methyl paraben is:” Methyl paraben is readily and completely absorbed through the skin”

-Toxicology Department, Covance Laboratories Ltd shows that “paraben esters are reported in another in vitro study to be absorbed through
the skin as intact esters”

-Medway Sciences, University of Greenwich.

_Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Brunel University

Why are those experts wrong ?

European scientists show no link between parabens and breast cancer but it is a study just about paraben-containing underarm cosmetics.

Yes, of course I’m not surprised but this study doesn’t take in consideration the effects on a long term and the use of other skin product cosmetics applied every day on the face and body that could be accumulated throughout time so yes a short term study just about underarm cosmetics is not going to show you anything.
thebeautybrains Says:

Since I don’t have access to the complete studies you site (pubmed links would be good), I can’t comment further on the penetration potential of parabens. Although in one you site it states parabens are metabolized and excreted which goes against your hypothesis of accumulation over time.

It is really a matter of perspective. Here is a paper published in the journal Critical Reviews in Toxicology which concludes that “…it is biologically implausible that parabens could increase the risk of any estrogen-mediated endpoint, including effects on the male reproductive tract or breast cancer.”

So, who are we to believe? The majority of experts that have access to all the same studies and conclude that this isn’t a real problem, or the far fewer experts who come to the opposite conclusion.

Since I don’t know more than them, and the best data leads most subject experts to conclude that current paraben use in cosmetics is not a problem, I’ll defer to the majority.

If more data came out to demonstrate a link, then I’d be perfectly willing to change my stance.

However, I doubt there is anything that you could read which would quell your fears about parabens. You’ve decided they are a problem and will only pay attention to data that supports that conclusion. Is there any data you could see that would convince you that parabens in cosmetics are not a problem?

You also provide no alternative. I think we could agree that selling unpreserved cosmetics is much more risky than paraben preserved ones. Right? What would you propose is a safer way to preserve cosmetics? Formaldehyde?
James Says:

Yes parabens are metabolised and secreted but what do you of people who cannot metabolise and secret some chemicals properly due to many factors like a weak immune system for instance and hence lead to an accumulation of those chemicals.
We ‘ re all different, we don’t have the same genetic make up, you have no certainty that whether or not your body eliminate properly those chemicals.
Only time can tell.

Parabens wouldn’t be a problem if I know there ‘ s no accumulation of parabens in our body or that they have no bad health effects in the long term and this is a data that we don’t have.
What are the parabens’ side effects in the long term in 20 years for instance ?
We don’t know.

I agree that cosmetics are more risky unpreserved than with parabens but why don’t we have other alternatives ?
It’ s like we don’t have the choice or forced to buy products with it…..

Alternatives ? If scientifics in the cosmetic industry don’t know better alternatives ( in term of effectiveness and price)than parabens why should I know more than them ? researchs on that subject are still going on.

….but wait,they can make products that have a shorter shelf life with the help of others mild preservatives ( even thought not as effective than parabens or as effective just in hight concentration which can lead to problems like skin irritation) like Vitamins A, C & E or Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate but those products would have to be kept in a place out of bacterias and yeasts wich is not practical for manufacturers and for consumers still a risk of contamination by bacterias, fungus and so on

Anyway, there are some brands out there like for instance that are parabens free and and seem to work well among customers….. but pricey.
never heard of infections given to consumers by their products or having a shelf life so short that people are not able to finish it in time or whatever.

No problems with those kind of parabens- free product so far.

Do you have evidences parabens are safe in the long term ?

Do you mean that all that buz surrounding the use parabens is for fun
?

Knowing that parabens are found in most of cosmetics …and just few brands parabens- free and amongst them some have maybe other chemicals with potential side effects yet to be discovered…

Why are we almost forced to take the risk ?
Left Brain Says:

There are no suitable alternatives to parabens, although scientists continue to look for them. The problem is that preservatives are designed to kill cells. That makes any chemical that can preserve products potentially harmful. And with a ban on animal testing, it’s very difficult for any manufacturer to produce a new preservative especially one designed to kill cells.

You already have a choice to avoid parabens. You could avoid lotions & skin products altogether if you’re so afraid. Cosmetics are not crucial to live a healthy life.

There is no demonstrated risk to using parabens (although you can never prove they are 100% safe). You can’t prove water is 100% safe either. You can’t prove anything is 100% safe.

And what is your proof that the mild preservatives that haven’t been tested for safety as thoroughly as parabens are better choices?

We have over 50 years of use of parabens with no compelling evidence that they cause problems. The evidence you site may be compelling to you, but not to the expert scientists who study these things.
James Says:

I have no proof mild preservatives are safer than parabens but so far they don’t seem to have any kind of risks as dangerous as breast cancer but like parabens no proof exist they are safer in the long run.

In other hand, a lot of people in a search for safer products tend to go to suposedly totally organic products and those ones even thought parabens free have chemicals far more dangerous.I ‘m thinking partcularly of some brands that have some products containing 1.4 dioxane like Jason, Alba, Giovanni,Nature’ gate etc…you certainly have heard about it.
James Says:

Yes nothing is 100% safe but you still have chemicals or compounds that are less risky and that are very less likely to present potential dangerosity as far as cancer for instance.

This is about reducing as far as possible
health risks.
James Says:

Use of parabens over than 50 years ?
For you it’ s enought ?

Do you know amiant? It has been used massively for more than 130 years and was used since 2500 years ago.
Do you know health effects of amiant ?
Cancer of the lungs,digestive cancers,mesothelioma, Asbestos, pleural plaques..

The health effects apear after 15,30,50 years after exposition.

We had a big case here in one french university in paris with teachers ill.
But no one said anything of course amiant ‘ s been used for more than 50 years and no compeling scientific evidence of dangerosity so far… No, no problems with this compound…. until later.

50 years of use of parabens means nothing as far as concerning the safety of parabens.

there are safer products, a lot of natural ingredients have a shelf life over than one year. We ‘re already used to use products that have expiratory date like foods, why not with cosmetics products ?

Those evidences I cited are not just compelling to me but other expert scientific as well.

Over 50 years experts scientific studying those things come up with nothing else than parabens?
they study nothing, some of those scientifics seachers have a big ego and don’t give a damm.

But wait the majority is always right, right ? I’m just an alarmist anyway…

Go say this to the women who have breast cancer if they are still alive.
thebeautybrains Says:

There’s nothing that can be said, no study that could be conducted, no experiment that could be run that will change your mind. You’ve decided you are right & are unable to consider any evidence to the contrary. This is not a rational position. Further discussion is pointless.

I could be convinced & appreciate the scientific studies you’ve directed me to. (I’m still reading and trying to figure out what it means).

But emotional appeals, dismissal of evidence, and unproven conclusions are not convincing. You want to prove you’re right, go get the scientific proof.

The fact remains there is no proven link between parabens and breast cancer. No matter how much you wish it to be true, there’s no proof that it is.
Jessica Says:

I have Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome, and I make a conscious decision to avoid parabens, as well as a number of other chemicals, that may have any affect on my hormone levels.

I already deal with facial hair, obesity and irregular periods, and have very little choice but to stay on birth conrol. I’d rather not take the chance with chemicals that may sabotage my hormones any further.
Epifany Says:

Hi

Based on what I have read. I wouldn’t use anything with parabens purely because there is not enough evidence to suggest that its good for you let alone that it might cause cancer. When I hear controversies on ingredients I tend to avoid them in case the worse is true!

Guilty till proven innocent I say!
thebeautybrains Says:

@Epifany – then you shouldn’t use any ingredients because it’s impossible to prove anything is safe. Even water can kill you.

What preservative would you suggest cosmetic chemists use? Unpreserved cosmetics have been proven unsafe.
James Says:

“But emotional appeals, dismissal of evidence, and unproven conclusions are not convincing”

emotional appeals ? yeah I’ m not unsunsitive to breast cancer even thought it shouldn’t concern me I ‘ m a man

“dismissal of evidence” you mean of evidence of safety? parabens have not been proven safe so far

“unproven conclusions” conclusion based on studies I cited by other expert scientifics

“there ‘ s no proven link between parabens and breast cancer” the studies about that didn’t go further; they just observed parabens in breats tumors but that’ s all. That just a constat.
So of course you can’t make a conclusion just with that.You can’t say there’ s a link.You can’t say there’ s no link.

I didn’t decide to be right but you did.
You made an article here saying parabens are safe, no problems no risks and everything’ s ok with parabens and knowing that this article is read by a lots of people, I just typed “parabens dangerous” on goog and your link come up…. the article is not well balanced like pros & cons or bad or good aspects of parabens you know ?

I’ ve never denied the effectivity of parabens as preservetives for instance but i also talk about a risk that is based on studies go take a look on google scholar….

Water (clean) doesn’t disturb hormonal activity as far as we know
thebeautybrains Says:

“Water (clean) doesn’t disturb hormonal activity as far as we know”

And paraben preservatives are not responsible for cancer, as far as we know.

You misunderstand my position on parabens. Let me clarify. The best evidence about parabens indicate that they are not a significant concern in personal care products. This is not just my opinion but the opinion of the majority of scientists who study this issue. I am open to the possibility that they could be unsafe and am willing to consider further evidence. However, without evidence to the contrary & with no better tested alternative preservatives, I don’t believe they are unsafe.

You may disagree. You probably believe yourself smarter than the majority of scientists who have looked at all the evidence, understood it and have decided the ingredients are safe. Without more evidence, my opinion stays with the scientists…parabens are a safe preservative.
becky Says:

Oh my this is ridiculous. And why does quoting an expert not count as evidence? Do they not know what they are talking about or something…isn’t that what expert means? We should all just try and live without the chemicals, people did it for hundreds of years before they even knew what preservatives were!
Left Brain Says:

@becky – and people died by the time they were 35 years back then. Would you rather live in a world like that?

Since everything is a chemical, it’s impossible to live without them. Water is a chemical!

Expert opinions are not evidence. They are merely opinions. They might be more right than others but it is only evidence that is true knowledge.

If you would’ve asked experts at the time of Galileo, they would’ve all said that the Sun rotates around the Earth. They would’ve all been wrong.