Parabens:
What are parabens?
Parabens are a group of artificial preservatives found in many cosmetics and body care products. They are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in cosmetic products, increasing its shelf life. Cosmetics typically contain mixtures of parabens, such as methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, isopropyl-, and butylparaben.
How are we exposed?
Parabens are found in moisturizers, face and skin cleansers, shampoos, conditioners, sunscreens, deodorants, antiperspirants, shaving gels, toothpastes, and makeup. They are also used as preservatives in food, beverages, and some medications. Some have also been detected in household dust. Daily use of body products can result in repeated, direct exposure to parabens.
Potential health effects:
Some parabens can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions. Lab studies suggest parabens can also disrupt reproductive hormones. Other studies also link parabens to cancer. In a recent study, traces of 5 different parabens were found in breast cancer tumors in 19 out of 20 women examined.
Are parabens regulated?
The FDA limits the levels of parabens allowed in food and beverages but it does NOT regulate these chemicals in cosmetics and body care products.
Prevention:
One way to reduce exposure to parabens is to switch to paraben-free cosmetics and body care products.
Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about the health of you and your family. For more information on healthy green living and green cleaning, please log on to greencleancertified.com or maidbrigade.com.
