Paraben is a preservative that is 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 parabens still requires attention, because in some people, parabens can cause allergic reactions. Paraben is even suspected of triggering cancer.
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 ester benzoic acid, 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 harm consumers. Paraben also makes products look fresher and not perishable.
In other industrial fields, such as food and pharmaceuticals, parabens are also used to obtain similar benefits.
Possible Allergic Reactions Due to Paraben Use
If you use cosmetic products that contain parabens, pay attention to possible skin allergic reactions (allergic contact dermatitis), such as:
- Itchy
- Reddish rash
- Dry and scaly
- Swollen
- Pain
- Blisters or burning
To avoid allergic reactions from using cosmetic products, try applying a little product on the wrist and waiting for the reaction within 48 hours. In addition, avoid using products containing parabens on the surface of the skin that are injured or problematic. To be safer, choose a cosmetic product that is paraben-free.
However, if you already have an allergic reaction, stop using the product immediately and consult a doctor.
Facts of Paraben as a Cause of Cancer
A study has detected traces of parabens in several samples of breast cancer cells. This then raises questions about the impact of the use of parabens on cancer risk.
Paraben has a chemical structure similar to estrogen, 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, not showing the effect 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 discharged through urine.
Until now, paraben preservatives contained in cosmetic products are still considered safe for use. Food, drug and cosmetic control institutions in various countries, including BPOM, still allow the use of parabens within the prescribed limits.
Although parabens are considered safe, you should still be careful using them, especially if you have sensitive skin types or there is a history of allergies in the use of cosmetic products. If you are still in doubt about parabens, choose a paraben-free product or cosmetics. To ensure safety, you can consult further with a doctor.
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