Let's FACE It!

Skin care products these days are laden with synthetic chemical ingredients, including paraben's The dangers of paraben's and other chemicals are down played by the government and the skin care industry but some consumers are taking matters into their own hands.

Paraben's are a group of chemicals that have been shown to have gestrogenic (hormonal) properties. There are five Paraben's in total.

Most of the other major cosmetic company formulas use Paraben's in their products.

Any substance that has the potential to raise the oestrogen level in the body is to be discouraged.


Are paraben's bad?

Parabens are widely used as preservatives in skin care products because they are cheap and effective. The problem is that paraben's cause allergic reactions and skin irritation in many people. Moreover, studies show that paraben's exhibit estrogen-like activity and thus interfere with the body’s endocrine system.

The dangers of paraben's may not seem serious enough in order for the ingredient to be banned completely but many consumers are asking questions. A 2004 study in the UK found traces of paraben's in breast tumor tissue samples and scientists think it has to do with the use of deodorant that contains paraben's If the increased risk of cancer is not an undesirable side effect that should have a product banned, I don’t know what is.

Are paraben's bad enough to avoid completely?

There are an increasing number of people who believe that and that’s why there are a growing number of paraben-free skin care products available on the market.

If you don’t feel comfortable using skin care products that contain paraben's, only buy from companies that do not apply parabens to their products.


So are paraben's bad?

While there are not absolutely definitive studies on the matter, the scientific evidence so far shows that paraben's do pose health risks. Your best bet is to avoid using skin care products that contain paraben's in order to stay safe. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin and are susceptible to allergic reactions.

So there you have it.

The dangers of paraben's may not be apparent to the point that their use is prohibited but the scientific evidence that we have so far is nothing short of alarming.

If you want to stay safe and use skin care products that will benefit your skin rather than harm it, go paraben-free.

Caroline
www.planetskincare.co.uk