We all use several personal care products as part of our daily life. Toothpaste, shampoo, moisturizers and the like are a common part of our everyday life. Have you ever stopped to look at the ingredients in these products?
“I’m sure they’re safe” you’re saying to yourself. But did you know that your body absorbs what is put on your skin?
“Our skin is the largest organ in our body, and we absorb through the skin.” says Dr. MaryAnne Harrington of Costa Mesa, CA.
Research has suggested that some of the ingredients common in cosmetics may cause health problems with prolonged usage. The European Union cosmetic Regulation has banned five parabens and prohibited their use cosmetic products. Let us take a look at a group of ingredients called parabens, which are commonly used preservatives which are becoming a source of major health concern.
Paraben is a blanket term used within the cosmetic industry to describe a group of chemicals called parahydroxybenzoates or esters of parahydroxybenzoic acid. These hard-to-pronounce names stand for chemicals have bacterial and fungicidal properties, which make them useful as preservatives in personal care products. Their low cost has led to widespread usage in both the cosmetic and personal care industries. Parabens can be found in shaving gels, personal lubricants, topical pharmaceuticals, spray tanning solution, makeup, shampoos, moisturizers, and toothpaste.
Since research on parabens is ongoing, there is no conclusive evidence yet and no regulation on the usage of parabens in the United States, except for a limit on their amount. Many parabens have been banned in the EU.
There is no doubt that there is a measure of risk involved in the continued usage of products containing these controversial chemicals, even though our society may not yet understand the biochemistry behind it.
All of this leads to the question of “what can I do about it when this is so widely used?” Let us take a look at some of the measures that we as a conscientious consumer can make.
Since paraben usage concerns the health of your family, it is advisable to know what is in the products that you use regularly. Scientific articles and the government regulatory agencies make regular health bulletins that can be used to make an informed decision for your family. Because we may not yet fully understand the effects of paraben usage, it is wise to take a “Safety First” approach. Make informed decisions and keep yourself updated. Cheers to organic products and your health!
References:
In the ever-evolving world of health and wellness, professionals are constantly seeking innovative ways to…
by Sydney Samuelson Picture this: A skincare product that feels like it's made just for…
Hey there, sun-seekers! Are you ready to bask in the warm glow of knowledge about…
When it comes to preserving youthful skin, nothing beats the power of sunscreen reapplication over…
In our modern, fast-paced lives, where time slips through our fingers like sand, finding moments…
Celebrate Mother's Day with ORS's Mother's Day Gift Contest! It's that time of year again…
View Comments
Great content. I'm starting to substitute my cosmetics, and the more I research, the more I'm astonished by the real and potential risks of many cosmetics components.