What are parabens?
Parabens are artificial preservatives that have been widely used in cosmetics and body care products since the 1920s.
Cosmetics will spoil if left untreated, just like food, which is why preservatives like parabens are added to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold and to extend the shelf life of the product.
Types of Parabens
There are several types of parabens, and cosmetics may contain multiple parabens at the same time.
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Methylparaben
- Ethylparaben
Effects on hormones in the body
Parabens are believed to act like the hormone estrogen in the body, and therefore may disrupt the normal functioning of the hormone system that affects reproductive function, pregnancy and childbirth in both men and women.
It has also been suggested that it may inhibit hormone production.
Propylparaben and butylparaben, in particular, are associated with stronger estrogenic activity.
The effects of parabens on the female body
A human study conducted by researchers at Harvard University has suggested that propylparaben in urine may be contributing to a decline in egg quantity and quality.
The survey also targeted 128 female Japanese university students.
The five-month study measured menstrual cycle length and urinary paraben concentrations, and showed a correlation between menstrual cycle length and variability and urinary paraben concentrations.
Additionally, reports have shown that concentrations of butylparaben in maternal urine and umbilical cord blood may increase the likelihood of premature birth and contribute to reduced birth weight in newborns.
In both studies, the subjects were members of the general public and were not overly exposed to parabens.
In other words, studies have shown that everyday use of cosmetics and personal care products may cause reproductive problems.
The difference between those who use parabens and those who don't
Parabens are found in a variety of products, especially in products that contain a lot of moisture, such as shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and milky lotions.
Parabens are rapidly absorbed into the body through the skin, then metabolized and excreted in the urine and bile.
Although they are ultimately excreted, the concentration of parabens in urine varies greatly depending on the frequency of cosmetic use.
One report showed that people who wear makeup every day had 20 times higher levels of propylparaben in their urine than people who don't. The use of a variety of products, including hair care, makeup, and skin care, can significantly increase the concentration of parabens in urine.
Cancer link
There is also ongoing research into the possible link between estrogen-like effects of parabens and the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer.
Parabens themselves are not carcinogenic, but there are concerns that they may promote the growth of cancer cells.
In particular, propylparaben has been shown to have the potential to promote the growth of breast cancer cells. Research at the University of California has found that low doses of butylparaben, which was previously not thought to be harmful, can turn on cancer genes and promote the growth of breast cancer cells.
Responses by countries
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
It identifies parabens as potential or actual endocrine disruptors.
EU
Propylparaben, butylparaben, and methylparaben are scheduled for formal review as possible endocrine disruptors.
Denmark
Butylparaben and isobutylparaben are recognized as endocrine disruptors.
Additionally, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, and isobutylparabens are prohibited in cosmetics intended for use by children under the age of three.
The environmental impact of parabens
Parabens are found in most people, including infants and pregnant women, and we are exposed to them throughout our lives.
But its impact doesn't just stop at humans: after humans create and use it, its impact extends to the natural environment.
Butylparaben can kill coral even at low concentrations. Parabens have also been detected in water and in aquatic organisms such as fish, raising concerns about their impact on ecosystems.
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