How to Avoid Parabens

Mysterious Ingredient
Q I’ve been hearing bad things about parabens; should I avoid them?

A It’s not a bad idea. Parabens, the most widely used class of preservatives, are found in shampoos, lotions, cosmetics, food, and drugs. Scientists have known for a while that in the body, they can mimic the actions of estrogen, which can encourage the growth of breast cancer. But until recently, no one thought that parabens could enter human tissue.

In a study at the University of Reading in England, however, researchers who examined cells from human breast tumors found parabens in them. These results are preliminary and no study has linked the use of paraben-containing products to an increased risk of cancer. Still, study author Philippa Darbre recommends that women steer clear of paraben-containing products meant to be applied on or near the breasts or underarms, such as body lotions, deodorants, sunscreens, and breast-firming creams. “I’m less worried about soaps and shampoos that are washed off, and cosmetics applied to other parts of the body,” she says. You’ll find paraben-free products at health food stores.

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