Do you know what’s in your skin care and cosmetic products? Unfortunately, most consumers don’t. Over the last few years, a lot of light has been shed on the dangers of conventional skin care products and the preservatives and additives that are used to manufacture them.
One of the leading questionable types of ingredients is parabens. Parabens are a group of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. They are inexpensive and highly effective as a preservative, which makes them a very popular choice among many brands. They are typically found in creams and lotions, which are products that many consumers use multiple times throughout the day!
The problem with parabens, is that all types (methyl, ethyl, etc) have been found to be estrogenic – meaning they mimic female hormones. While parabens have been found in breast tumour samples they haven’t been conclusively linked to cancer. (Vasil, 2007, pg 315) However, estrogenic ingredients can cause hormone disruption which can have various effects on the body and interfere with the normal hormone balance for both men and women.
So how do you spot a paraben? The best way to arm yourself against the use of parabens is to read the labels of the products you buy and switch to brands that do not use these preservatives in the first place.
The VADA Body Care line of products, by OnlyGreen, is made without the use of any synthetic dyes or chemicals, is handmade using only natural ingredients and is 100% paraben free. VADA Body Care products include hair care, face care, body care, baby care and products for men. Click here to connect with your local EcoAdvisor and learn more about how to get VADA products for you and your family.
Our 100% paraben free facial creams are currently on sale! Give yourself soft, smooth skin, safely, even in the dry winter weather!
Resources:
Vasil, Adria, Ecoholic, 2007
The Vada creams are awesome! I have a very discerning nose...and they are so pleasing that way, smell good enough to eat! Paraben free and so lovely natural ingredients like my fav oh-so-smooth shea butter. Thanks for introducing me to these Stacy...and your service is extraordinarily good!
Posted by: Heather Donaldson | February 12, 2012 at 12:32 PM