View this email in your browser

Quote of the day:

“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

– Maya Angelou

Parabens

What is it?

Parabens are a type of synthetic preservative commonly used in personal care and cosmetic products to extend their shelf life. They are inexpensive and effective, which is why they are found in so many products. Parabens serve the purpose of maintaining the stability of active ingredients, while also preventing harmful bacteria growth.

Parabens may be listed under their chemical names, the most common include methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.

Parabens are known to mimic estrogen in the body, which can disrupt hormonal balances and potentially lead to health issues. Thankfully some brands have caught on so you should see “paraben-free” listed on product labels.

Why does it matter?

Parabens have been linked to a number of potential health risks, including:

1. Disruption of hormonal balance: Parabens have been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, which can disrupt hormonal balance and potentially lead to health issues such as weight gain, mood changes, and infertility.

2. Potential link to breast cancer: Some studies have suggested a possible link between parabens and breast cancer. Traces of parabens have been found in breast tumors, though more research is needed to fully understand the link between parabens and breast cancer.

3. Skin irritation and allergic reactions: Parabens can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in people with sensitive skin.

4. Other potential health risks: Parabens have also been linked to other potential health risks, including reproductive toxicity and developmental toxicity.

While parabens are not ban in the US, retailers have made their own stance. Target has a list of chemicals that are not allowed in its personal care products, and certain types of parabens are included. Similarly, Whole Foods Market has a set of ingredient standards for personal care products, which include restrictions on certain types of parabens.

How to remove from your life?

The good news is that it's easy to remove parabens from your life. Look for products labeled as "paraben-free" or "preservative-free." Switching to natural and organic products can also help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

Typical places you would find parabens are:

• Makeup (including foundations, eyeshadows, and blushes)

• Skincare products (including moisturizers, cleansers, and toners)

• Hair care products (including shampoos, conditioners, and styling products)

• Deodorants and antiperspirants

• Sunscreen products

• Toothpaste and mouthwash

To avoid being misled by "greenwashing," check the ingredient label carefully to make sure that the product is truly free of parabens.

When using paraben-free products, it's important to pay attention to their expiration dates, which are typically indicated by a symbol that looks like an open pot with a number in the center. The number represents how many months the product is good after opening.

Copyright (C) Want to change how you receive these emails?You can update your preferences or unsubscribe