The Hidden Dangers in Your Skin Care Products
Parabens and Sulfates are they safe?
11 January 2023 | Parvez Ahmed
Parabens and sulfates are two of the most commonly used ingredients in personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, soaps, lotions, deodorants, and toothpaste, cosmetics, creams and many other skincare products.
While these ingredients are considered safe, recent studies have linked them to a range of harmful effects, including cancer, allergies, and even birth defects!
What Are Sulfates?
Sulfates are commonly used in skincare products as a detergent to create lather and aid in cleaning. However, sulfates can be harsh on the skin and hair, stripping away natural oils and leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation.
According to a study published in the International Journal of Toxicology, sulfates can cause skin and eye irritation, leading to dryness, inflammation, and other adverse effects. Additionally, sulfates have been linked to respiratory issues such as asthma and may pose a potential risk for cancer, as per research published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
Sulfates have potential to interact with other chemicals in skincare products, leading to the formation of harmful compounds. Due to the potential for adverse effects, it is recommended that individuals opt for sulfate-free products or those with lower concentrations of sulfates. Doing so can help to reduce the risk of skin irritation and promote overall skin and hair health.
What Are Parabens?
Parabens are a type of chemical preservative that’s commonly used in cosmetic products to prevent growth of harmful bacteria and mold and to extend the shelf life of products.
The most commonly used parabens in personal care products are:
Methylparaben
Ethylparaben
Propylparaben
Butylparaben
These ingredients are generally considered safe in small amounts, but there has been some concern about their potential health effects. Some studies have linked parabens to hormonal imbalances, allergic reactions, and even breast cancer.
For example, one study found that women with breast cancer had higher levels of parabens in their blood than women without breast cancer. (1) Parabens have also been linked to reproductive problems, a study found that parabens may interfere with sperm production in men. (2) If that’s not scary, parabens may even increase the risk of miscarriage in women. (3)
The research is mixed. Studies have suggested that parabens may increase the risk of a number of health problems, and others don’t. What’s clear is more independent research is needed to really know if parabens are safe or not.
At Moza Skincare by nature, we take your safety seriously, and that’s why all our skincare products are free of parabens and sulfates. We use only natural ingredients from nature.
