What are parabens?
Parabens are synthetic compounds known as “oestrogen mimickers” or “xenoestrogens”. They are used to prevent the growth of yeasts, moulds, and bacteria in many everyday products. You can find them in a wide range of personal care products such as deodorants and antiperspirants, cosmetics, shampoos and conditioners, shower and facial cleansers, sunscreens, as well as some foods and beverages.
A study conducted by Darbre in 2004 identified measurable concentrations of six different parabens in biopsy samples from breast tumours, raising concerns about their potential implications on human health.
Notably, adolescents and adult females tend to exhibit higher levels of certain parabens in their urine compared to males of similar ages (Calafat, 2010). Research suggests a correlation between paraben concentrations and their location in the body, with higher levels found in the axilla quadrant of the breast—the area nearest to the underarm—where a significant proportion of breast cancer occur.
What do “oestrogen mimickers” do?
Oestrogen mimickers (xenoestrogens) imitate the effects of natural oestrogen—a female sex hormone—by binding to receptor sites in the body (Routledge, 1998). This imitation can lead to hormonal imbalances, potentially disrupting the endocrine system.
Xenoestrogens “can also increase the expression of many genes that are usually regulated by the natural oestrogen and cause human breast tumour cells (MCF-7 cells) to grow and proliferate in vitro” (Byford, 2002; Pugazhendhi, 2007).
How can I reduce my exposure to parabens?
Here are some tips to help you make informed choices:
- Check product labels: Review personal care product labels and avoid products containing parabens or any ingredient ending in “-paraben”, such as ethylparaben, butylparaben, methylparaben, and propylparaben.
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Explore safe cosmetics: Learn more about what to look for in different products and make safer choices with the help of informative websites and/or apps, such as:
- Think Dirty (app and website)
- EWG’s Skin Deep (website)
- CosDNA (website)
- Limit plastic use: Decrease your exposure to parabens by reducing the use of plastic products, as they can sometimes contain these harmful compounds.
- Monitor diet: Be cautious about consuming certain products like soy-based products (excluding fermented options) as they may also possess oestrogen-mimicking properties.
- Opt for paraben-free alternatives: Choose paraben-free personal care products and household cleaning items. Brands like Method offer paraben-free alternatives that are both effective and safe.
- Educate others: Involve your children and teenagers in the paraben-free campaign. Share information on safer deodorant options and alternatives like washing under the arms with bicarbonate soda. It’s magic and totally works.
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