Preservatives in cosmetics
Various preservatives are used in cosmetics.
Rotten cosmetics can be dangerous , so it is important to maintain sufficient preservative properties.
However, some types pose risks to skin and health, so it's best to check what preservatives are used.
According to the database of EWG, an American safety evaluation organization, Let's check the dangers of commonly used cosmetic preservatives.
There are 10 levels of danger
At EWG, a group of experts rate cosmetic ingredients on a 10-point scale.
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What about those preservatives?
How are the preservatives commonly found in Japanese cosmetics evaluated?
Let's look at them in order of safety.
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Sodium benzoate (risk level: 1-2)
In Japan, the concentration is limited to 1%. It is considered a highly safe preservative worldwide and is approved for use in organic cosmetics.
Potassium sorbate (danger level: 2)
In Japan, the maximum concentration is set at 0.5%. Research has shown that even at a 10% concentration, there is almost no irritation to the eyes or skin.
Phenoxyethanol (danger level: 2-4)
Due to respiratory concerns, EWG states that spray and powder cosmetic products pose a higher risk, as do skin irritants.
Ethylparaben (danger level: 3)
Although it may have endocrine disrupting effects, it is one of the safest parabens . Since it exerts its preservative effect in small amounts, there is little risk of skin irritation or allergies.
Methylparaben (Risk level: 3-4)
The risk is higher with spray and powder cosmetic products due to respiratory concerns. Although it may have endocrine disrupting effects, it is one of the safest parabens.
Chlorphenesin (Risk level: 4)
Research has shown that it can cause dermatitis and eczema in people with sensitive or dry skin, and is highly irritating to people who are allergic to preservatives. It cannot be used in EWG certified cosmetics.
BHT (Risk level: 5)
The ingredient is made with toluene, a potent neurotoxin that is of concern for allergy and immune system risks. It is not permitted in EWG certified cosmetics.
Iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (hazard level: 6)
allergy, There are concerns about liver toxicity and effects on reproduction and development. In New Zealand, lip care, oral care, It is prohibited in cosmetics for children under the age of three, but in Japan it is sometimes used in baby wipes .DMDM hydantoin (danger level: 6)
This ingredient slowly releases formaldehyde, a known allergen that causes sick building syndrome. Women with chronic dermatitis are at especially high risk of developing allergies.
Benzalkonium chloride (danger level: 6)
There is a serious risk of eye, skin and respiratory irritation and allergies. Because it is a skin sensitizer, it is particularly dangerous for people with asthma or skin conditions such as eczema. It is often added to shampoos. 
BHA (Risk level: 7)
It has been classified as a "possible human carcinogen" by the US National Toxicology Program, and the European Commission has indicated that it may be an endocrine disruptor.
Propylparaben (Risk level: 9)
It is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream. Inside the body, it mimics the behavior of the female hormone estrogen, potentially disrupting natural hormone balance and function.
Butylparaben (Risk level: 9)
Like propylparaben, It is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream, and by mimicking the behavior of estrogen, it can disrupt your natural hormone balance and function.
Isobutylparaben (danger level: 10)
It is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream, and by mimicking the behavior of estrogen, it can disrupt your natural hormone balance and function.
A 2004 study found isobutylparaben in the tumors of 19 of 20 breast cancer patients.
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How was it?
Perhaps there are ingredients that are disliked in Japan that are actually very safe, or preservatives that we were unaware of as being highly dangerous.
Even if you think you've never heard of a preservative, please check the ingredients. You'll be surprised at how many different things contain them.
I hope this will be helpful when choosing your cosmetics.
*By the way, preservatives below "chlorphenesin" are not allowed to be used in EWG-certified cosmetics. Personally, I hope that the number of EWG-certified cosmetics will increase in Japan.
CONCIO
Keiko Kimoto
