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Parabens is a large group of preservatives, especially useful to fight against molds and yeasts in addition to unwanted bacteria. In general, propyl-paraben and methyl-paraben are used in cosmetics and skin care products to maintain the integrity of the products. Parabens have been used in food, medications, cosmetics, skin care products and in many industrial goods for nearly 50 years due to their seemingly low risk of toxicity.
Nonetheless, even with their wide spread use and regulatory approval, parabens can cause health concerns in some individuals. Certain people have been shown to have a sensitivity to all or some of the chemicals in the paraben group. Most commonly this sensitivity manifests as an allergic reaction called allergic contact dermatitis. The symptoms range from a skin rash to the more dangerous and potentially life threatening allergic hypersensitivity, although this is very rare.
Other studies have found a correlation (not a cause) between breast cancer tumors and certain parabens that are used in under arm antiperspirants and deodorants. Although the research does not link the cause of the tumor with the presence of parabens it is quite disturbing to know that when examined many tumors show high levels of parabens.
The paraben group of chemicals mimic normal estrogen molecules. For this reason parabens have the potential to cause disruptions within the endocrine system of the body. This would include the ovaries, uterus, hypothalamus, and thyroid among others. The outcome of introducing parabens into the human body on a regular basis is still under investigation although the most staunch supporters of a paraben-free world claim that products containing parabens may be causing certain forms of cancers, harming our children and the rest of the ecosystem.
If you suspect that you may have an allergy to paraben consult your dermatologist or primary care physician. There are tests that can be run to determine the cause of your allergic reactions. Additionally, you may simply be looking to live a paraben-free life and reduce your exposure to potentially toxic materials. In either case, you will need to start using products known to be paraben-free.
Paraben-free Products
If you are looking for a paraben-free lotion or body crème/balm La Roche-Posay makes the very popular paraben-free and fragrance-free Lipikar Balm, an Anti-irritant lipid Replenishing Body Balm. The base of this nourishing balm is shea butter which causes the crème to glide across the skin as you apply it. It's perfect for extremely dry, irritated skin and is oil-free.
Pharmaceutical Specialties, Inc. (PSI) makes a complete line of body care products that is free of dyes, perfume, fragrance and masking fragrance, parabens, lanolin and formaldehyde. Their products vary from sunscreen to hair conditioner and from cleansing bars to hairsprays. Items found in this line of body care products include:
Pharmaceutical Specialties Vanicream Sunscreen SPF 35 Sport
Pharmaceutical Specialties Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser, an oil-free, soap-free cleanser for normal or sensitive skin
Pharmaceutical Specialties Free & Clear Shampoo and Conditioner, non-medicated shampoo and conditioner that effectively and gently cleanses both hair and scalp
Pharmaceutical Specialties Vanicream Skin Cream Pump, a moisturizer for people with extremely sensitive skin.
If you are looking for a cosmetic paraben-free line of products look no further than Jane Iredale Cosmetics. Jane Iredale's makeup is made only from pure micronized minerals and pigments and contains no artificial dyes or chemical additives, including parabens. Moreover, this line of all-natural cosmetics is free of oil and talc and will cover virtually any skin imperfection, leaving your face with a smooth, beautiful look all day long.
Try products such as Jane Iredale Amazing Base SPF 20, which comes in a variety of colors. This micronized mineral base is four products in one: foundation, powder, sunscreen and concealer! There is also Jane Iredale PureLash Lengthening Mascara, Jane Iredale Lip Drink SPF 15, an all-natural sun-blocking lip balm, Jane Iredale Eye Shadow Kits, and even Jane Iredale Blush that comes in warm or cool tones. There are many more products in this beauty line, too many to mention, so when you are in the market for a paraben-free cosmetic line, be sure to look at Jane Iredale.
Last but not least, another paraben-free line of skin care products is made by Skyn ICELAND. These items are known to not only be free of potentially damaging paraben chemicals but have also been formulated to counteract the harmful effects of chronic stress from the environment and everyday life. Choose these products when you are looking for an all natural skin care line that fights premature aging, and dry, lack-luster skin.
Article posted 10/09/2006.
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