Parabens are a type of preservative widely used in beauty and hygiene products, such as shampoos, creams, deodorants, scrubs and other types of cosmetics, such as lipsticks or mascara, for example. Some of the most used examples include:
- Methylparaben;
- Propylparaben;
- Butylparaben;
- Isobutyl paraben.
Although they are a great way to prevent fungi, bacteria and other microorganisms from growing in the products, they seem to be related to an increase in the number of cancer cases, especially breast and testicular cancer.
Although the amount of parabens in a product is considered safe by security entities such as Anvisa, most studies have been done on only one product, and the cumulative effect of several products on the body during the day is not known.
Because they can be bad for your health
Parabens are substances that can slightly imitate the effect of estrogens on the body, which ends up stimulating the division of breast cells and can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
In addition, parabens have also been identified in the urine and blood of healthy people, just hours after a product with these substances was used. This means that the body is able to absorb parabens and therefore have the potential to cause changes in health.
In men, parabens may also be related to a decrease in sperm production, mainly due to its effect on the hormonal system.
How to avoid using parabens
Although they are considered safe to use, there are already options of products without parabens, which can be used by those who prefer to avoid this type of substances. Some examples of brands that have products without the substance are:
- Dr. Organic;
- Belofio;
- Ren;
- Caudalie;
- Leonor Greyl;
- Hydro-Floral;
- La Roche Posay;
- Bio extratus.
However, even if you want to use products that contain parabens, the most important thing is to try to avoid their excessive use, and you should only use 2 or 3 of these products per day. Thus, paraben-free products do not need to completely replace products containing the substance, being a good option to use together, decreasing their concentration in the body.
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