The Basics On Parabens
What is Parabens?
Group of controversial preservatives, including butylparaben, propylparaben, methylparaben, and ethylparaben.
What are other names for Parabens?
N/A
What is Parabens used for?
Parabens are a class of chemicals commonly used as preservatives in food, therapeutic and cosmetic products. They are derived from para-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), which occurs naturally in many fruits and vegetables. Parabens come in several forms: methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, and isobutylparaben. They are the most widely used preservative in personal care products and are used in over 22,000 cosmetics as preservatives at concentrations up to 0.8% (mixtures of parabens) or up to 0.4% (single paraben)1. Their high usage is because they are good at doing their job—keeping your products mold and bacteria free—and they are also cost-effective.
How Parabens is classified
Preservatives
Recommendations for using Parabens during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Are parabens safe during pregnancy? Avoid
Parabens During Pregnancy
What we know about using Parabens while pregnant or breastfeeding
Avoid.
General safety info about Parabens from CIR
No report found.
Use this, not that!
Look for products containing Phenoxyethanol or Sodium Benzoate (and Benzoic Acid), potentially in combination with Potassium Sorbate, instead of parabens
Products where you might find Parabens
Philip Kingsley No Scent No Colour Shampoo (8.45 fl. oz.); Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer; Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector; Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector; Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector; Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector
List of References
General sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/
1. Final amended report on the safety assessment of Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Isopropylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, and Benzylparaben as used in cosmetic products. Int J Toxicol. 2008;27 Suppl 4:1-82. [PubMed] 2. Darbre P, Aljarrah A, Miller W, Coldham N, Sauer M, Pope G. Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours. J Appl Toxicol. 2004;24(1):5-13. [PubMed]
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
