Cosmetic brands often advertise that their products are paraben-free. However, they are often found in shampoos, deodorants, creams and lipsticks. But what does the ingredient actually do? And is it really as harmful as its reputation suggests?
Parabens should always ensure that our care products last longer. However, their effect on the body is highly controversial. STYLEBOOK has worked together with the dermatologist Dr. Timm Golüke from Munich if the active ingredient is harmful and if it is needed.
What are Parabens?
Parabens are a group of chemicals. The most common ingredients found in skincare are methyl and ethyl parabens.
How are parabens used?
“Parabens are used in cosmetics as a preservative,” says Dr. Tim Goluke. They prevent the deterioration of cosmetic products such as shampoo, shower gel, creams, but also decorative cosmetics. They are also used as preservatives in the food industry or in medicines.
Attributed effects of parabens
Most cosmetic and skin care products are made up largely of water. Since this is a real breeding ground for germs and bacteria, parabens are often used as preservatives: they prevent the growth of microorganisms. The products are made durable for a longer period of time. They also have a stabilizing effect on many formulations. They prevent individual ingredients from decomposing or interacting with each other.
Possible risks from the ingredient
The effect of parabens is considered highly controversial. It is said that the active ingredient is harmful to health, but is it really so?
The structure of the active substance is very similar to the female sex hormone estrogen. Since parabens are absorbed through the skin, it is suspected that they can disrupt hormone balance. The ingredient is also suspected of affecting fertility. A study by the Spanish University of Granada also shows that there may be a connection between some ingredients in cosmetics and endometriosis. However, there are still too few long-term studies to draw firm conclusions about possible health harms.
Also interesting: how to treat endometriosis
Alternative preservatives
Without preservatives, cosmetic products would expire quickly. If you still want to do without parabens, you can use alternatives. These include synthetic preservatives such as phenoxyethanol or natural active ingredients such as rosemary oil extract and tea tree oil.
expert assessment
“Parabens can cause allergies,” says Dr. Goluke. “As has been shown in animal experiments, they can show an estrogen-like effect, so other available preservatives are preferred. So there’s really no reason to use parabens.” While the use of preservatives is important for the shelf life and safety of cosmetics, it is worth looking for alternatives.
That’s what consumer protection says
Since parabens are not considered completely harmless, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment has established guidelines for the use of the active ingredient in cosmetic products. For example, methyl and ethylparaben can be present in care products and cosmetics in a maximum concentration of 0.4%. Butyl and Probylparaben are already limited to a concentration of 0.19% to ensure safe use.
Sources
