Propylparaben

What is Propylparaben?

Propylparaben, which is an ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, is a tasteless, odourless white powder that doesn’t irritate the skin. It is a preservative found in various types of cosmetics, such as eyeshadows, powders, foundation, and eyeliner. The chemical can also be found in certain foods, to keep it from going fungi, or in pharmaceuticals. Though propylparaben naturally exists in plants and some insects, it is most frequently found in its chemical form for commercial purposes. Propylparaben has been found in various cosmetics since the beginning of the 20^th century, usually in its chemical form to help prevent the growth of yeasts, bacterial and other germs in cosmetics.

Overview

Parabens have been used in various cosmetic products to help increase their shelf life since the 1950s. Propylparaben specifically has been found to reduce bacteria, moulds, and yeasts in various types of cosmetics. The chemical allows make-up to be used for longer periods even when cosmetics aren’t kept in dry or cool places. Not all cosmetics have the same percentage of propylparaben in them and this should be remembered when checking labels. How much of the chemical is contained within the product depends on its purpose, texture and brand. There are a few ways propylparabens have concerned dermatology experts.

Concerns and side effects

Of main concern to the skincare community is that propylparabens, though declared safe by many regulating bodies around the world, can affect the body’s endocrine systems by imitating the hormone. This causes unhealthy hormone imbalances in the body that could interrupt many of the processes in the body that rely on the endocrine system. There is also concern that propylparabens and other endocrine disruptors could be potential carcinogens. In addition, there could be pain because of internal inflammation caused by the chemical. This could cause weight gain and fluid retention. Endocrine disruptors such as propylparabens are also risker for women who are pregnant and nursing.

How to use propylparaben safely

The FDA has been allowing propylparaben to be used in amounts of 0.1-0.3% since the 1980s. Though at these amounts this is of little cause for concern for most people, heavy make-up users could find themselves more at-risk of experience any side effects associated with the chemical. One way to keep safe is to read labels when buying skincare products and cosmetics, this can help keep exposure to propylparabens at a minimum. Even so, propylparabens are still considered the safest form of skincare preservatives on the market today.

Though it is now widely known that propylparabens are an endocrine disruptor, research on whether or not it causes cancer is still not conclusive. Still, more research is being conducted on the possible links between propylparabens and breast cancer. Leading scientists in the field believe the link exists because parabens have sometimes been found on cancerous tissues. Those who have a history of cancer or who have such a history in their family can discuss how to use this chemical safely with their dermatologist.