Parabens in Skincare and Why People Are Choosing Paraben-Free Products

Parabens in Skincare

What They Are and Why Many People Choose Paraben-Free

If you have ever looked closely at the ingredient list on a skincare product, you may have seen names such as methylparaben or proplyparaben, these are some of preservatives known as parabens.

Over the last decade there has been increased interest in paraben-free skincare, particularly among people looking for a more natural lifestyle. But what are parabens, and why do I choose to avoid them?

What Are Parabens in Skincare?

Parabens are a type of synthetic preservative used in cosmetics and skincare [and some foods]. Their purpose is to stop bacteria, mould and yeast from growing in your products that contain water. Without preservatives, many of your skincare products would spoil quickly and even become unsafe to use.  Its because parabens are inexpensive and effective, that they have become widely used across the industry.

Why Are Parabens Controversial?

Concerns about parabens began after research suggested that they may mimic the hormone oestrogen, leading to the question whether parabens could potentially disrupt hormones.  During these studies small traces of parabens were detected in breast tissue samples. However it has to be noted, that this does not prove that parabens can cause cancer. The verdict is still out scientifically on this, and regulatory authorities still allow low concentrations of certain parabens in cosmetics. This research has increased consumer awareness, which has encouraged more people to look for and use paraben-free skincare products.

Here at Wild by Nature I focus on natural ingredients, and choose to create products that are paraben-free. As I have found that many customers are actively searching for natural skincare without paraben, there is a growing preference for simpler ingredient lists. The skin care products that I make are made using traditional methods that do not require preservatives. For example cold process soap does not not contain free water in the same way that many lotions and creams do. Because of this, properly cured soap does not need preservatives such as parabens to remain stable.

Are Natural Soaps Paraben-Free?

Yes, most handmade soaps are naturally paraben free. This is because soap is created through a chemical reaction called saponification, where oils and alkali combine to form soap and glycerin. The finished bar has a high ph and very little free water, making is difficult for bacteria to grow. For this reason, traditional bar soap does not typically require synthetic preservatives.

The growing awareness and interest in paraben free skincare reflects a shift towards natural skincare products with simple transparent ingredients. Handmade soaps and products that are made with just oils, butters and essential oils. 

So while the scientific discussion around parabens continues, many people simply prefer products made with fewer synthetic additives. Some common parabens found in cosmetics that you may wish to avoid include:

. Methylparaben

. Proplyparaben

. Butylparaben

. Ethylparaben

As I mentioned above the use of parabens in cosmetics are to limit the growth of mould, yeast and bacteria, some are also used as food preservatives. In food regulations they are referred to as E- Numbers rather than by their chemical names. The most relevant ones being those four I have listed above. These preservatives have historically appeared in certain processed foods, mainly to prevent mould growth and extend shelf life. These foods include packaged cakes, pastries and tortillas. Jams, jellies and other fruit preserves. Sauces and condiments and pickled products. Beverages and soft drink flavourings, and processed snack foods; mainly in the frostings and toppings. Now this is where I think it gets interesting for the cosmetic industry. As regulation has shifted over time, in parts of Europe, including the UK, the use of certain paraben as food additives has been heavily restricted or phased out.  So why is it still deemed acceptable for parabens to still be used and remain in our skincare?

During my research for this blog, I found out that parabens can also naturally occur in plants. Small amounts have been found in blueberries, strawberries, carrots, onions and barley. These are naturally occurring produced by the plants as a antimicrobial defence chemicals. The quantities are miniscule compared to the amounts use in industrial preservatives.