Parabens: Yes or No?

More than ever, we are aware of how important it is to take good care of our skin and hair. In doing so, we want to avoid the use of harmful chemicals as much as possible. Over the years, we have learned more and more about ingredients we use or used in cosmetics, for example. Parabens are a much-discussed topic. So the question is, 'Parabens: yes or no?' What do we actually know about them now? Do they pose a risk to our health or not? You can read all about it in this blog! 

What are parabens?

Parabens are a type of preservative. They kill bacteria and fungi that try to grow within the product, thereby ensuring a longer shelf life. Parabens are a chemical compound of para-hydroxybenzoic acid and have been used as a preservative for over 80 years. Parabens are used in cosmetics, skin and hair care products, cleaning products, food, and medicines. More than 75% of personal care products contain parabens. The concentration of parabens in these products ranges from approximately 0.3% to 1%.  

Are parabens dangerous?

The safety of parabens is a highly debated topic. The reason for doubting the safety of parabens is the fact that they have a mild estrogen-like effect and could therefore potentially play a role in the development and growth of breast cancer. Parabens in cosmetics can penetrate the skin and be absorbed into our tissues. However, a direct link between parabens and breast cancer has never been proven.  

RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment): Parabens act somewhat like the female sex hormone. However, parabens are 1,000 to 100,000 times less potent than the natural female sex hormone. The available data on parabens are insufficient to determine whether these substances are endocrine disruptors. At the maximum legally permitted amounts in consumer products, intake is low. 

Source: https://www.rivm.nl/hormoonverstorende-stoffen/nieuwe-pagina  

It's up to you!

Products with or without parabens? The choice is yours. Parabens are officially approved for use in the Cosmetics Directive (76/768/EEC), the European legislation regulating all cosmetics and toiletries. In food products, they are indicated by E-numbers: E214 to E219. In cosmetics, they are indicated by the following names: methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, isoparaben or benzylparaben. Sometimes other names are used, but since they all end in paraben, they are easy to recognize.  

Prefer paraben-free products? More and more people are choosing this option, and the supply of paraben-free products is therefore growing. Many Calmare Cosmetics products are also paraben-free. This applies to our Original Haarhersteller (Hair Restorer), Blow-dry and Setting Spray, Finish Sprays, and Styling Foams, for example, but also to all shampoos and the Repair Conditioner!

So, whichever Calmare shampoo you choose, you're always good when it comes to parabens!