Dermatologists explain why parabens in cosmetics are so controversial.
Parabens have been taking a lot of heat lately as researchers debate the safety of their usage in formulations.
But do you know what parabens are or why theyre seemingly so controversial?
Liz deSousa for BYRDIE
Meet the Experts
What Are Parabens?
Parabens are a class of compounds called esters, used as preservatives in cosmetic products.
The most commonly used aremethylparaben, ethylparaben,propylparaben, and butylparaben.
Are Parabens Bad For You?
Unfortunately, theres no straight answer here, hence a decades-long debate.
So, Are Products Containing Parabens Safe to Use?
Rubin reassures that parabens are rather safe to use.
“Other than the possible health concerns as discussed above, parabens are usually well-tolerated,” she says.
Although parabens haven’t been proven to be dangerous, Rubin chooses not to use them in her products.
“At SEEN Hair Care, we prefer to minimize risk so we are paraben-free,” she says.
Are Parabens Bad for the Environment?
Studieshave shown that parabens have shown up in elevated levels in marine animals.
However, no conclusive study has been done to show if any harm has been done to the animals.
What Products Contain Parabens?
What Are Alternatives to Parabens?
If your product has passed its expiration date, youre better off tossing it than taking a risk.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Parabens in cosmetics.
Updated February 22, 2018.
2015;49(20):12071-12079. doi:10.1021/acs.est.5b03601
Barabasz W, Pikulicka A, Wzorek Z, Nowak AK.
Ecotoxicological aspects of the use of parabens in the production of cosmetics.CT.
2019;(12):99-124. doi:10.4467/2353737XCT.19.126.11451
