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A chemical compound used as a preservative, paraben can be found in certain foods, medicines and especially in cosmetics

Beauty and personal care products are increasingly used. The Brazilian cosmetics market has a great economic performance and the demand for this type of product is only growing. But not everyone is aware of the composition of the products they buy and, often, they are not aware of the risks they may be running. The various types of parabens are a good example - these chemical compounds are present not only in beauty products, but also in foods and medicines, but what are parabens?

• Know the main substances that should be avoided in cosmetics and hygiene products
• Those who use lipstick, shine or lip balm may be slowly ingesting heavy metals

What is paraben?

According to Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), from the US government's Department of Health and Human Services, paraben is a class of chemical compounds commonly used as preservatives, primarily in cosmetics. The most common types of parabens are methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben and butylparaben.

According to the FDA, among the products that may contain parabens are makeup, deodorants, moisturizers, lotions, enamels, oils and lotions for children, hair products, perfumes, tattoo ink and even shaving creams. In addition to cosmetics, we can find these compounds in certain types of foods and medicines.

Paraben offers protection against microbes and other microorganisms, in order to ensure both the integrity of the product and the health of the individual who uses it. But that's not quite how things actually happen.

Health

The impacts on human health of the use of products containing paraben is a very controversial issue. The main reason for this is the discussion about whether such chemical compounds are or are not carcinogenic (causing cancer).

It all started with a series of viral emails stating that the use of deodorants was linked to the development of breast cancer. This statement originated in a 2004 survey that correlated the development of breast cancer with parabens. In this article, the weak xenoestrogens found in deodorants were taken into account.

Currently, both the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the International Agency for the Study of Cancer (IARC), which is part of the World Health Organization (WHO), claim that there is no compelling evidence that can link the chemical compounds parabens with the development of cancer.

Still, other studies show that the consumption of products that contain parabens can cause skin allergies and premature aging of the skin.

Paraben interferes with the endocrine system of humans and animals - it has an estrogenic activity - because of this it is considered an endocrine disruptor. Currently, these substances are gaining relevance, as even in small doses they can harm health and the environment.

• Endocrine disruptors alter the hormonal system and can cause disturbances even in small amounts

avoiding paraben

Control over the amount of parabens present in cosmetics is quite strict. In Brazil, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) established as a limit the maximum concentrations of 0.4% of each paraben and a maximum of 0.8% of total paraben in the cosmetic product.

The choice of whether or not to consume products that contain parabens in their composition is exclusive to the consumer, but, in the presence of alternatives, it is always prudent not to take risks when consuming chemical compounds that may cause, even if eventually, health problems.

Make beauty products at home

There are several homemade recipes capable of effectively replacing cosmetics. Here in the eCycle portal we always have several homemade product options for you to try. Check out some homemade recipes that are made with 100% natural ingredients and are even more affordable than traditional cosmetics:

• Moisturizing creams: three homemade recipes
• Shaving cream: care when choosing or how to make
• Home scrub: six how-to recipes
• How to make natural aftershave lotion
• Six Hydration Mask Recipes
• Eco-friendly glitter: homemade recipes to shine naturally
• Do it yourself: homemade perfume with essential oil
• Natural deodorant: make a homemade or buy?
• Three homemade essential oil makeup remover recipes
• How to make homemade and natural makeup remover
• Three homemade shampoo and conditioner recipes
• Homemade recipes for sustainable shampoos and conditioners

But, if you don't have the time or also an option to carry in your purse, there are several options on the market that are totally free of parabens - therefore, they are safer alternatives to common cosmetics. The idea is to always pay attention to product packaging. Prefer natural cosmetics that do not contain this substance - there are several options in the store eCycle . Conscious consumption first.