The "pro-paraben" faction states that there is little scientific evidence detailing the dangers of parabens. They say the preservatives safely and effectively protect consumers from illness caused by bacterial or fungal contaminants. The other side of the debate subscribes to the "precautionary principle".
If a product "might" cause "severe or irreversible harm" to consumers, it should be removed from the market or carefully regulated. According to the precautionary principle, it is not necessary to "prove" the dangers beyond a shadow of a doubt. It is necessary to "prove" their safety.
The only supporting evidence that the pro-paraben faction has to do with the long history of continued use of the chemicals in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, foods and a variety of health and beauty aids. But, it is because of this continued use in that wide variety of products that has worried cancer researchers.
To ask; are parabens bad, is a very general question. More specific questions need to be answered. Are they bad, if exposure occurs on a daily basis from a variety of different sources?
When it comes to toxins that accumulate within the human body, we know that continued low-dose exposure causes long term health problems. The toxic metal lead, for example, accumulates in the liver and other bodily organs. Exposure to even tiny amounts on a daily basis causes high blood pressure, nutritional deficiencies and other health problems in the elderly.
We know that there is no single cause of cancer. There are likely numerous factors and exposure to toxins that cause the disease. An increased risk of cancer is one of the dangers of parabens.
Opinions vary. Proponents claim that the chemicals are quickly metabolized, broken down and excreted by the human body. They say the chemicals do "not" penetrate the skin. But, four years ago, we learned that they do penetrate the skin and do accumulate in bodily tissues.
But are they bad? Ask researchers at the University of Reading. According to their report published in July of 2008, "there is a need to carry out detailed evaluation" of the dangers of parabens. Because of their estrogenic activity, they have the potential to "increase female breast cancer incidence" and "interfere with male reproductive functions". They also have the potential to "influence the development of malignant melanoma"; cancer.
So, are parabens bad? What do you think? I think we should look for paraben-free skin care products, whenever possible. In particular, those of us who have a family history of breast cancer. The hereditary risk is enough. We don't need to increase the risk by using probable or possible carcinogens. We have other options.
Look for lotions and creams that contain grape seed extract or oil and natural vitamin E. They are effective preservatives for the other ingredients and they provide additional benefits, as skin antioxidants, compounds that fight cancer-causing free radical damage. The dangers of parabens might not be that serious, but why take the risk?
Laurel is a dedicated researcher of skin care health and products. She shares her research on her website http://www.beautiful-skin-site.com. If you have unwanted wrinkles, fine lines and damaged skin, visit http://www.beautiful-skin-site.com now to learn about the skin care line Laurel personally recommends.