There has
been some fierce controversy about whether parabens, in no less than 85% of our
cosmetics, are really good for our health. There are some conflicting reports and
studies about paraben free skincare.
The only certain thing about these parabens is that
they are chemicals used to stop mould from invading cosmetics and making them
useless. They extend the shelf life of these products considerably. A great
invention, you might have thought. They have, in fact been in use now for
almost a hundred years!
One fact is
that they do disturb the
endocrine system. This is what controls our cell development and has a
direct bearing on how our thyroid and pancreas glands work. They do this
because they are in effect endocrine disruptors and that is the real cause for
alarm. This is why most people would prefer NOT to have them in their products.
It is, after all, better to be safe and not take any unnecessary risks.
There were some alarming reports
when scientists who examined breast cancer patients at a hospital, (University of
Brunel UK) found that the parabens
were present in the cancerous tissue. This is not to say that they actually
caused the cancer. But the fact that they were there when they should have been
excreted by the body started to ring alarm bells. There is no doubt at all that
the parabens are oestrogen mimickers and as oestrogen is one of the factors in
breast cancer, it seems wise to avoid them. So, why risk it? Surely there are safer alternatives?
Paraben free skincare is one answer to all these
questions. It makes perfect sense, after all. We should also be avoiding all
the other chemicals in many products. These have been called ‘The Dirty Dozen’
and they include dioxins, mineral oils, formaldehyde, just to name three.
Another answer to consider is whether the actual
substitutes for parabens are safe! Yes, you’ve guessed it. Some companies have
used phenoxyethanol instead and it is just as harmful, if not more so!
The only safe way is to read the labels and look out
for chemicals and always go by the rule that if it is safe to eat, then it can
be used on your skin. But you also need to make sure that the company
manufacturing the product is a reputable one and will offer you guarantees.
Sources:-
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