Parabens | MNN - Mother Nature Network

MNN.com > Parabens

Parabens are commonly used as a preservative in cosmetic products like shaving cream, shampoo and makeup to keep bacteria from forming. Parabens have been used in cosmetics for a number of years, and the most commonly used varieties are methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben.

The Food and Drug Administration regulates all ingredients in cosmetics and has found that parabens exist in most cosmetic products within a very small range (0.01 to 0.3 percent). The FDA has determined that at this amount parabens did not represent a risk to consumers.

Recent studies have discovered parabens in breast tumors due to the chemicals’ ability to behave in a fashion similar to estrogen. Despite this, the studies have not demonstrated a link between parabens and breast cancer. At this time, the FDA has not issued any warnings about parabens being in products.

Source: Parabens Product and Ingredient Safety at FDA.gov

Text by Noel Kirkpatrick

(Photo by omaniblog/Flickr)

What are the pros and cons of mineral makeup?

October 21, 2011, 10:25 a.m. by Chanie Kirschner

Just because that label says 'natural' doesn't mean it's good for you.

Chemicals in cosmetics

February 16, 2011, 9:05 a.m. by S.A. Rogers

We dig into five common chemicals of concern found in cosmetics and personal care products, how they affect our bodies and what you can do to avoid them.

Gisele Bundchen clarifies 'sunscreen poison' remarks

February 7, 2011, 8:03 p.m. by Michael d'Estries

Supermodel backpedals after cancer experts slam her comments on the toxic harm of sunblock.

closeup of running shoes at the park

closeup of running shoes at the park

5 easy ways to reduce your risk of cancer

January 25, 2011, 8:08 a.m. by Katherine Butler

Cancer statistics are worrisome, but there are many ways to stay healthy.

How can I get through the winter without getting dry skin?

December 8, 2010, 7:39 a.m. by Morieka Johnson

Less can be more when it comes to taking care of your skin in the coldest months.

30 ways to detox your home and body

November 23, 2010, 6:29 p.m. by Care2 .com

Read on and find ways to remove some toxins from your life.

Panic over faux-organic products

August 13, 2010, 11:33 a.m. by Siel Ju

Organic Consumers Association is waging a 'Panic! It's not organic!' guerrilla sticker campaign against faux-organic personal care products.

Breast cancer: The risks and how you can reduce them

August 4, 2010, 7:13 p.m. by Smarter Living

What are the risks in your surroundings and what can you do to reduce them? Catherine Zandonella, M.P.H., provides answers.

Don't be a guinea pig

June 30, 2010, 6:32 p.m. by Siel Ju

Environmental Defense Fund seeks to rally grassroots support for toxic chemical reform with a new social media campaign, I am Not a Guinea Pig.

Whole Foods cracks down on organic claims

June 23, 2010, 12:24 p.m. by Siel Ju

Starting June 2011, beauty products making 'organic' claims will have to meet the same certification standards as food products at Whole Foods.

All Things Pure: Skin care made simple

June 18, 2010, 12:26 p.m. by Siel Ju

Bioelements' new All Things Pure skin care line details all its simple, natural ingredients right on its eco-friendly packaging.

black dog licking its paw

black dog licking its paw

How to treat your dog's allergies

May 13, 2010, 10:59 a.m. by Morieka Johnson

Here are 8 tips for helping dogs that suffer from allergies.

grilled salmon on cutting board

10 foods and beverages that boost brainpower

Glacier Bay National Park is a terrific spot for a cruise.

7 unconventional cruises for your bucket list

Kumbuka, a silverback gorilla, at the London Zoo

Hairy Houdinis: 13 animal escape artists

Subscribe to our newsletter