What are parabens and why do I care?

Formaldehyde in keratin treatments, now parabens in cosmetics? Do parabens really matter? And what are they?


Parabens are a preservatives which are synthetically produced and used in everything from processed foods to personal care products such as cosmetics and shampoos. They are highly effective in their purpose of inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungus but some studies suggest that parabens are responsible for some types of cancer — specifically breast cancer. Parabens mimic estrogen and having too much estrogen is thought to contribute breast cancer. In some cases large amounts of parabens have been found in cancerous tumors.

It's always something, right? How do I know if these studies are legit? It seems like for every study saying something is dangerous, there's another study saying it's fine.

Studies citing parabens as dangerous are inconclusive and controversial. The FDA claims that parabens are safe, particularly in the very small amounts in which they are used in cosmetics. The fact is, however, that we use countless chemicals on a regular basis without ever knowing the long-term cumulative effect. Using several products with parabens, on a daily basis, over a long period of time, simply adds up. The best way to avoid a health risk is to eliminate parabens wherever possible and a great place to start is with cosmetics. If you can easily find a safer alternative that provides the same results, why not, right?

What products are paraben free?

Trichology's Kevin Murphy line as well as our GloMinerals makeup and GloTherapeutics skincare line,  are all paraben free options! We are happy to take the stress out of finding products superior in quality and made from quality ingredients.

Now you're in the know!