Are parabens good or bad for the skin?
Parabens: you've probably heard about them. Are they actually good or bad for the skin? The answer is not black and white. Parabens certainly have their benefits, such as protecting products from spoilage and bacteria. Yet there are also concerns about their possible effects on health. There are many nuances when it comes to parabens, and it's good to understand where this discussion comes from. At Hypogeen we choose not to use parabens, because we focus on skin care that is safe and mild for everyone. In this blog we explain what parabens are, why they are so commonly used, and why we choose to avoid them.
What are parabens?
Parabens are preservatives that ensure that products remain free of bacteria and fungi, even after opening. They are particularly effective because only a small amount is needed to give a product a long shelf life. This keeps creams, shampoos and lotions safe to use and retains their quality.
The use of parabens has advantages. By preventing harmful microorganisms from developing in care products, they also reduce the risk of skin irritation caused by spoilage. So it is not the case that parabens are only bad.
Products that often contain parabens
Thanks to their effectiveness as a preservative, parabens are popular in the cosmetic industry. Parabens are therefore used in approximately 80% of skin and hair care products. You'll find them in everything from day creams and body lotions to shampoos and deodorants. Parabens are also used in foods to extend their shelf life. On the ingredient list you can recognize parabens by names such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben or benzylparaben.
Can parabens cause allergies?
Yes, parabens can cause allergic reactions, but fortunately this is rare. People with sensitive skin are slightly more at risk of a reaction. Symptoms may resemble eczema, such as redness, flakes or blisters. This often happens in areas where skin care products are used most, such as the face, hands or armpits.
People who are allergic to parabens are often also sensitive to other preservatives. For this group it is important to choose hypoallergenic products that have been specially developed for sensitive skin.
Why is there so much discussion surrounding parabens?
Parabens are effective and have been used for decades. But why are they discussed so often? In 2004, health scientist P.D Darbre linked parabens to possible health risks. She stated that one of the seven types of parabens could have carcinogenic properties. Although this claim has never been officially proven, it has sparked much debate.
In addition, parabens are structurally similar to estrogen, a natural hormone. This has raised concerns among some about hormonal disruptions, especially with long-term use. Although scientific evidence for these effects is limited, more and more brands and consumers are choosing to avoid parabens, especially when it comes to products for sensitive skin. At Hypogeen we choose to avoid such risks and therefore leave parabens out of our formulas.
Hypogeen's choice for paraben-free formulas
We hear you thinking: if parabens have so many benefits, why doesn't Hypogeen use them? At Hypogeen we have a clear mission: developing skin care with the lowest risk of allergic reactions. Our products are specially made for people with sensitive skin. That is why we choose to completely exclude ingredients with an increased risk of skin irritation, such as parabens, from our formulas. This way, our customers can confidently use products that are mild, yet effective.
Instead of parabens, we use natural preservatives, such as propanediol. This substance prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi and at the same time contributes to healthy skin. This means that our products have a long shelf life, without you having to worry about possible side effects.
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