Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic, personal care and pharmaceutical industries, primarily for their anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. A report published in the Journal of the American College of Toxicology in 1984(1) estimated that parabens could be found in over 13,000 cosmetics products, including shampoos, conditioners, deodorants and sunscreens. That’s in addition to food and pharmaceutical products. Their efficacy as preservatives, low cost and long history of safe use likely explains why parabens are so commonplace. While more research needs to be conducted, there is evidence to warrant caution in the use of, or exposure to, parabens. Although there is no definitive consensus on the danger of parabens, some companies have adopted a ‘precautionary principal’ and have committed to removing parabens from all formulations, thus resulting in their products exceeding the European Union’s strict standards for cosmetics. The EU has banned more than 1,300 ingredients that are known or strongly suspected of causing cancer, birth defects or fertility problems. Parabens are not on this list.
Jan 202011
