What are parabens?

Parabens are esters of para-hydroxibenzoic acid that have been used as preservatives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and foods for many years. The most common parabens are:

• Methylparaben
• Propylparabens
• Ethylparaben
• Benzylparaben
• Isobutylparaben
• Butylparaben

They are commonly used in bundles that include two or more parabens and/or other preservatives.

A study in the UK found the presence of intact parabens in 20 samples of human breast tumors. However, this research was not scientifically balanced. It is unclear if the parabens arrived in the tumors via food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, deodorants or from the solutions used to preserve and process the tumors. It is also unknown if parabens caused the tumors or if parabens appear in healthy breast tissue.

The question has been raised as to whether the parabens would have been sweated out of the body without the use of antiperspirants and naturally flushed out of the system. A great deal of research still needs to go into the paraben question.

In the meantime, the cosmetic industry has responded and many companies have reformulated their products. It is important to read labels of all cosmetics and foods that you purchase. In most cases, there are paraben-free options. It is wise to learn about the other preservatives that have taken their place.