Paraben is a preservative commonly used in the cosmetics and cleaning products industry. Shampoo, soap, deodorant, moisturizer, sunscreen, lipstick, and mascara are some examples of products that often contain parabens.
Although commonly found in cosmetic products, the use of products with paraben content still requires attention, because in some people, parabens can cause allergic reactions. Parabens are even suspected of triggering cancer.
The Function of Parabens in Cosmetic Products
In product packaging, parabens (para-hydroxybenzoate) can be written with names such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben, 4-hydroxy methyl benzoic acid esters, or methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate.
The function of parabens in cosmetic products and skin cleansers is to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can reduce product quality and endanger consumers. Parabens also make the product look fresher and not easily damaged.
In other industries, such as food and pharmaceuticals, parabens are also used to obtain similar benefits.
Possibility of allergic reactions due to the use of parabens
If you use cosmetic products that contain parabens, consider the possibility of an allergic reaction to the skin (allergic contact dermatitis), such as:
Itchy
Reddish rash
Dry and scaly
Swollen
Pain
Blistering or burning
To avoid allergic reactions from using cosmetic products, try applying a small amount of product on the wrist and wait for the reaction within 48 hours. In addition, avoid using products containing parabens on the surface of the skin that are injured or have problems. To be safer, choose cosmetic products that are free of parabens (paraben-free).
But if you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using the product immediately and see a doctor.
The Facts of Parabens as Causes of Cancer
A study has detected traces of parabens in several samples of breast cancer cells. This then raises questions about the impact of using parabens on the risk of getting cancer.
Parabens have an estrogen-like chemical structure, which is a hormone known to cause multiplication of cells in the breast, both normal and cancerous cells. It's just that, studies that mention that parabens are a trigger for cancer are still limited.
The study only found the content of parabens in the body of cancer patients, rather than showing the influence of parabens in causing or triggering cancer.
The scale of the study was also considered very small, only in only dozens of women with breast cancer. In addition, parabens are also considered difficult to settle in the body because these substances are easily removed through urine.
Until now, paraben preservatives contained in cosmetic products are still considered safe to use. Food, drug, and cosmetics supervisory institutions in various countries, including BPOM, still allow the use of parabens within specified limits.
Although parabens are considered safe, you should still be careful to use them, especially if you have sensitive skin types or a history of allergies in the use of cosmetic products. If you still have doubts about parabens, choose paraben-free products or cosmetics. To ensure safety, you can consult with your doctor further.
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