What are Parabens?
Parabens are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic
and pharmaceutical industries.
Studies have found that the biggest risk from parabens seems to be from the use of
products that require a prolonged exposure to skin. The longer that parabens are on the skin,
the more opportunity there is for them to be absorbed. When used in skin care products,
parabens are absorbed directly into the blood stream.
One type of paraben - methylparaben - has
also been linked to the premature ageing of
skin. A study undertaken in Japan indicated
that certain cosmetic products may cause
skin to age excessively when exposed to
ultra-violet rays.
Some tests have indicated that parabens
have caused an increase in oestrogen which
can possibly affect the male and female
reproductive organs. Some studies in men
have shown that a low sperm count and a
decrease in testosterone are directly related
to the intake of parabens.
One of the biggest areas of concern is the
effect of parabens on breast cancer. Several
studies have found traces of parabens in
women with breast cancer. There seems
little doubt that parabens can affect breast
tissue - but whether they actually increase the
possibility of breast cancer is still uncertain.
Source – Live Naturally
