Parabens are used almost everywhere in cosmetics. How do these components affect human he alth? Should I use these products?
Why is paraben used in cosmetics?
The safety of components is always a matter of debate. Manufacturers claim that the ingredients are he althy, while environmentalists and doctors declare danger. But if there is a paraben in the composition of the product, you should definitely pay attention to it. Usually these components are used as preservatives. The most commonly used are propylparaben, methylparaben, and butylparaben. As a rule, several components of the group are used in one product, and in combination with preservatives. This approach helps extend shelf life and provide protection against microorganisms.
Paraben in cosmetics is not at all a rare phenomenon. It is used in creams, cosmetics, shampoos, shower gels and more.
Determining the presence of the components of this group is easy - read the composition of the product.
Paraben in cosmetics: danger
Repeatedly the safety of the use of these components was called into question. A few minutes after applying cosmetics parabenspenetrate the skin and enter the blood. In a breast cancer study, 18 out of 20 cases found these substances 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, and also increase the expression of genes regulated by estradiol. It is assumed that because of this feature, paraben in cosmetics can lead to the development of cancer. It is also known to cause allergic reactions.
Paraben-free natural cosmetics
Through the use of modern technology, it is possible to create herbal tinctures that have a shelf life of 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 included in the composition. It is quite easy to determine the presence of harmful components - they contain the word "paraben" in the name. But do not fall for advertising tricks and consider any means that do not include this component useful. Sometimes other, no less harmful ingredients are used.
Therefore, it is better to choose cosmetics marked with certain certificates. For example, EcoCert or CosmeBIO. From the most famous manufacturersnote "Natura Siberica", "Planet Organika", "Organic Shop", "Madara" and others. The funds of these companies are relatively inexpensive, often even cheaper than their "chemical" counterparts. However, you can be sure of the effectiveness of the purchased funds and their safety. There are also more expensive products, including, for example, products under the brands "Bio2You", "Organix", "Colors of Life", etc. The latter company sells goods through the MLM system. However, similar components can be found in other cosmetics, which are many times cheaper.