Issues
t h at g e t u n d e r o u r s k i n
Parabens
Parabens are often used as a preservative in skin creams and cosmetics but some believe it poses serious risk to our health. We look at why... Parabens are a group of preservatives that are regularly added to food and cosmetics. The more common types are listed on product labels as methylparaben, butylparaben and ethylparaben. In the last decade they have come under scrutiny because of their ability to mimic oestrogen, which has been shown to play a role in the development of breast cancer. During that time a number of studies found parabens present in the breast tissue of cancer patients. In 2004, Dr Philippa Darbre, a senior lecturer in oncology at the University of Reading, carried out a small study demonstrating that parabens could be detected in human breast tissue. It was then thought that parabens were entering the tissue through the application of cosmetics such as underarm deodorant, particularly if the area was shaved which removes the top protective layer of skin. A later, more in-depth study followed and the findings prompted the Daily Mail to claim that a “chemical found in deodorants, face cream and food products is discovered in [the] tumours of ALL breast cancer patients”; a statement criticised for over-exaggerating the findings.
Cancer Research UK responded to the report saying: “This research does not in any way prove that anti-perspirants are a risk factor in cancer. The increased proliferation of cells is only one element of causing cancer and it does not prove that parabens are carcinogenic.” The study was criticised for its small number of samples and a lack of blank samples to compare the findings with. Breakthrough Breast Cancer surmised that “Further research is needed to establish the source of the chemicals found in the breast tumour samples and what, if any, the relationship is to breast cancer.” In the meantime, a review by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review found that parabens are safe for use in cosmetic products at levels up to 25 percent, adding that typically, those products would only use parabens at levels ranging from 0.01 percent to 0.3 percent. Some advocates of natural and botanical skincare do support the use of parabens. Liz Earle, for example, cites on her website that one of the early studies was “highly flawed” and still uses them in her formulations.
So what’s the verdict? Whether you decide to avoid parabens is entirely down to personal choice. Until studies show categorically that there’s a link between parabens and breast cancer, the wider industry will continue to dispute a serious cause for concern. However, the natural beauty industry has shown that we can still have amazing, innovative and highly effective skincare without the use of parabens, so if you are worried about a risk, there’s no need for you to take it. Issues
t h at g e t u n d e r o u r s k i n
/ 15