Why You Should Avoid Using Skincare Products That Contain Parabens?

People have not only become increasingly aware of what they eat, but they've also become aware of the ingredients in their skincare and what they put on on their skin. When it comes to which products ingredients are good and which are bad, anyone who's skincare aware knows one of the biggest names on the naughty list is parabens.

Parabens are a type of preservative used since the 1950's to prolong the shelf life of many health and beauty products by preventing the growth of mould and bacteria within them. Although parabens allow products to survive for months, even years in our bathroom cabinets, they also enter our body through our skin. Research has shown that parabens may disrupt hormone function by mimicking oestrogen. Too much oestrogen can trigger an increase in breast cell division and growth of tumours, reason why parabens have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. More than being bad for humans, parabens impact the environment too. Parabens have also been found in the bodies of marine mammals. Researchers believe that it's likely these parabens come from products humans use that are washed into the sewage system and release into the environment.

Source: Theskincaresaviour.com/

In order to avoid any potentially harmful effects of parabens, it is necessary to look for paraben-free cosmetics. The good news is, nowadays you can find a wide range of skincare products that are paraben-free including paraben free lotion, cream, soaps and more. Products that don't contain paraben make sure to mention "paraben-free" on their packaging to help direct consumers to safer, healthier alternatives than their chemical-laden counterparts. In case you don't see these words anywhere on the packaging, you can check the ingredient list for common parabens including methylparaben, butylparaben and Propylparaben.

It is important to mention that while you may feel more comfortable using a paraben free lotion or a paraben free soap, it is difficult to find any skincare products that are entirely preservative-free. While a lotion may not contain parabens, it may use other preservatives such as antioxidants, including acids derived from vitamin A, C and E, that prevent the product from growing fungus or bacteria. Still, these preservatives are a much healthier alternative to parabens.

Here are the benefits you'll enjoy by switching to paraben-free products:

Healthier Body

Although some people say that there is no enough proof that parabens cause cancer, 99% of women with breast cancer sampled in a study had parabens in their tissues. Men are also at risk as paraben use has been linked to both cancer and lower than normal sperm counts in men. Using a range of preservatives into our skin every day surely cannot be beneficial. While our bodies are made to self-cleanse and remove toxins through the skin, products that contain unfamiliar chemicals can still build up in our tissues.

Source: Sukinnaturals.com.au

Youthful Skin

Did you know that creams sold in stores and known for their"anti'aging" properties may also contain a type of paraben that makes you look older? This type of paraben is called methylparaben. It is a deceptive ingredient that can cause a reduction in collagen production. Collagen is a protein that makes up a good portion of our connective tissue - it offers benefits ranging from the appearance of youthful skin to easing joint pain.

Your Skin Might Clear Up

The reason why this might happen is that everyone's tolerance varies for different ingredients, both natural and chemical. If your skincare products are not delivering the results you expected, switching to natural, organic products free of chemicals might be your cure. If you are prone to breakouts, consider trying one product at a time to test your tolerance.

Preventing Allergies

Allergic contact dermatitis is a condition that has been related to the use of parabens in personal products since the 1960s. Symptoms include excessive itching and red, blotchy patches and raised bumps on the skin.

Source: Google.com

Healthier Hair

Just as with your skin, paraben-free products are also better for your hair. Parabens are known to cause scalp irritations, and research has reported that the use of parabens in shampoos and other beauty products result in blood and urine samples containing the preservative after use.

Everything Will Smell Better

Generally, products are paraben-free contain only natural and organic ingredients, which means they are naturally-scented. Rose creams are made from real rose water and essential oils are from real plants, never an imitation. After a few weeks of using your natural moisturiser, you will start to notice the difference between an imitation fragrance and a natural fragrance and you will never want to switch back.

It is time for you to feel good about the products you put on your skin. To get started, simply look at what you already have in your cabinet. Replacing your products one by one until you figure out the best health regimen for your needs is likely going to be much easier and fun than you think.