Skip to main content

Are You Using Parabens?

parabens

What do you know about your makeup products? Maybe you’ve heard the beauty myths about bat excrement in mascara or fish scales in lipstick. But what do you know about parabens?

We recently wrote about when to throw away and replace your makeup products. In an effort to extend product shelf life, pharmaceutical companies are  now including preservatives called parabens  to protect makeup against microbial growth and help maintain product integrity. Scientists continue to research the relationship between parabens and tumors, as biopsy samples have revealed the presence of parabens in breast tumors. And although cosmetic companies promise a minimum concentration of parabens in their products, it’s best to monitor your exposure because they are so widely used.

There are product lines that offer paraben-free products. A safer option would be to use oil-based organic products that don’t contain water (which is why cosmetics need a preservative). Schedule an appointment and talk to one of our dermatologists about the best products for your skin.

If you have any questions about parabens or about changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

The Paraben Discussion

The most controversial ingredients in skincare are parabens. There are people on both sides of the fence- those saying it does not cause any harm and those saying it does. Because of its controversy, many skincare lines are popping up and marketing “paraben-free” products. Even certain makeup items are now being formulated without them. So, what’s the deal?

Parabens are chemicals found in cosmetics and skincare products that help preserve the shelf-life. They have been widely used to prevent bacteria growth as well. About 85 percent of cosmetics have them because they are inexpensive and effective. The most common parabens are butylparaben, methylparaben, and propylparaben.

Back in the 90s, parabens were deemed “xenoestrogens” – agents that mimic estrogen in the body. Estrogen disruption has been linked to breast cancer and other reproductive issues. Many countries, companies and organizations now want to limit parabens in our products. However, some studies have shown parabens have a very weak estrogenic effect. As of right now, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the World Health Organization, consider the chemicals safe at low levels.

The bottom line is to be aware that this discussion surrounding parabens is going on. If you have any questions about what is in your skincare products, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.