What do shampoos, moisturizers, toothpastes, gels, shaving creams, and lotions, to name a few, have in common? Besides the fact that they are mainly for proper grooming, they all contain a common preservative known as paraben. It is valued because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties. As a preservative, it tends to extend the life of these cosmetic products. Nevertheless, what one may not be aware of right now is the pressing dangers of parabens. 

Perhaps by now you're asking yourself the perennial question: Are parabens bad? Better yet, why is it considered to be a menace today? This is because of the pressing dangers of parabens, which can affect your physical health greatly.

Are parabens bad? There are two pressing issues about the dangers of parabens. First, it can mimic the estrogen processes. Second, it can cause harsh skin allergic reactions. 

The dangers of parabens are escalated by the numerous studies conducted about them, revealing that they have the potential to alter or mimic the estrogen processes of women and that they can cause cancer.

Parabens have the capacity to mimic estrogen, a female hormone, especially when they are already absorbed by the skin. For example, pregnant women who are exposed to parabens may introduce an alien hormone to her fetus, causing the latter to undergo severe setbacks in its development.

The dangers of parabens are also brought by the assumption that they can cause estrogen-dependent tumors. Because they can alter the estrogen processes and levels in the female's body, they aid in the development of breast cancer. Moreover, a number of men who are exposed to these chemicals are experiencing a decrease in their sperm count, which is one of the few signs of infertility.  

Parabens also have the tendency to cause skin irritations and harsh allergies. Women and men can develop contact dermatitis and rosacea. The ones greatly affected are those that have highly sensitive skin. If you're already suffering from an allergic reaction caused by other factors, parabens can only worsen the condition by flaring up rashes or allowing them to spread quickly all over your body. 

Are parabens bad? Yes, they can be, but it doesn't necessarily mean that you'll stop taking skin care products all together. You have a choice, and that is to settle for paraben-free ones. 

Because of the pressing dangers of parabens, a lot of skin care companies have decided to provide a much better and healthier option to their consumers. Thus, several skin care products today are paraben free. What's more, they contain added vitamins like E and C, which will not only protect the skin from the harmful effects of chemicals like parabens but also will promote more glowing and suppler skin. 

Allow yourself to live longer and lead happier and healthier lives. Eliminate parabens and stick to paraben-free skin care products.