A recent British study detected the presence of preservatives called parabens in human breast tumors. Parabens have been shown to have estrogen-like activity. It is known that estrogen can accelerate the growth of cancerous tumors.
Parabens are the most common preservatives used in cosmetics such as deodorants, face creams, body lotions, make-up, etc., and are even used in nearly all of the so-called “natural” brands.
British researcher Dr. Phillipa Darbre told the BBC:
“Their detection (of parabens) in human breast tumours is of concern since parabens have been shown to be able to mimic the action of the female hormone estrogen,” she said.
“Estrogen can drive the growth of human breast tumours. It would therefore seem especially prudent to consider whether parabens should continue to be used in such a wide range of cosmetics applied to the breast area including deodorants.”
Further research is needed but the current findings suggest that avoidance of parabens may be the wisest policy for consumers as well as spa and salon professionals who work with products containing these chemicals.
Read the labels of your current products and see if they contain such names as “methyl paraben,” “propyl paraben,” or “butyl paraben.” This exercise will reveal to you how widespread is the use of these chemicals.
Ask your spa technician or owner if that spa uses products that contain parabens.
Paraben-free products do exist so informed consumers have the opportunity to replace their existing products. We at Evan’s Garden have never used the parabens. We feel Nature has the answers! More data on our philosophy is available here.
Interestingly, reports in the British media were more detailed than those we’ve seen in the U.S.
Links to the BBC story and Dr. Darbre’s research:
For more useful information on other toxic or suspect ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products, please read our toxic ingredients article.