Some of the newest beauty and hygiene products that are out on the market today now have labels that advertise that they are “paraben free.” This is supposed to be an effective way of encouraging customers to buy the lotions, shampoos, and soaps because they are healthier and safer for the environment. But since not everyone fully understands what parabens are, some may just choose less expensive items that are loaded with the ingredient instead. So to help, the following is a detailed explanation of what parabens are and what they do to the body.
What are Parabens?
Parabens are esters of parahydroxylbenzoic acid. They are usually chemically derived through a special manufacturing process, but, sometimes, they occur in nature too. These esters
…show more content…
Parabens have been discovered in malignant breast tumors. That means, there is a good chance that they contribute to the development of breast cancer. How this occurs isn 't known though. But it is thought to be due to the DNA and RNA damage that they inflict. Parabens may also cause any breast cancer cells that are already present to multiply more rapidly than they normally would. For this reason, women who have a family history of breast cancer are often strongly encouraged to stay away from products containing this ingredient or any other product that could raise their estrogen level …show more content…
One of the most common of them all is grapefruit seed extract. Grapefruit seed extract has long been used as an algaecide, fungicide, and bactericide. And it is so safe that it can be taken internally to help a person or animal fight off a bacterial, fungal, parasitic, or viral infection. Farmers and ranchers also commonly use it to clean the water tanks and food dishes of their cattle and other livestock. However, many companies that sell beauty and hygiene products claim that it isn 't strong enough. There are other herbs and natural products that can be combined with it to ensure that the products will stay fresh for months though, such as frankincense, myrrh, chamomile, and colloidal