Are Parabens Bad for Skin? Expert Insights

Parabens are a common preservative in skincare products that can negatively affect your skin and health, explains Shanna Bynes Bradford, a Licensed Medical Esthetician, Master Aromatherapist, and Certified Reflexologist at Grow Out Oils.

Below, we’ll discuss parabens, whether they’re bad for your skin, and alternative products. We’ll also share expert skincare tips and how to choose the right products. 

What are parabens?

Parabens are chemicals used as preservatives in many skincare products to prevent bacteria and mold growth to extend the product’s shelf life, says Bradford.

Some food and other cosmetic products may also contain parabens. These will have the paraben listed on the ingredient list, with “paraben” being the suffix, such as methylparaben and ethylparaben. 

Are parabens bad for you? 

Parabens can be bad for you, as studies have suggested a possible link between parabens and particular health concerns, including breast cancer. They can also cause other changes in the body, including blood sugar, cholesterol, thyroid, and immune function. 

While it’s believed that parabens may be harmful, there’s limited research. Therefore, it’s best to avoid them if you can.

Are parabens bad for skin?

“Parabens are generally considered safe for use in skincare products at low concentrations,” says Bradford. However, there can be negative impacts, so consider avoiding them if you can.

Bradford explains that some people experience skin irritations and allergic reactions to parabens. They’re also known for their antimicrobial properties, which is how they prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in personal care products. While this can be helpful, it can also disrupt hormone function in the body and cause a pH imbalance, leading to possible health concerns.

Alternatives to Parabens

“There are many paraben-free skincare products for those who want to avoid using products with parabens,” says Bradford. For example, all Oakwell Cosmetics products are paraben-free.

When looking for personal care products, avoid those with parabens on the ingredients list. These are often labeled as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben.

Bradford also recommends looking for products labeled as paraben-free. To avoid preservatives altogether, you can opt for natural, organic skincare options that don’t contain these ingredients. 

Tips for Choosing Skincare Products

The following tips can help you choose the right skincare products for you:

Are parabens bad for skin? FAQs

Learn more about parabens for skin with answers to common questions below.

Are parabens safe in skincare?

While a small amount of parabens is generally safe for the skin, they can cause health concerns, so avoid them if possible.

Are parabens bad in sunscreen?

While parabens in sunscreen help the product last longer, they can harm your skin and cause health concerns. Instead, you can choose a paraben-free sunscreen with safe ingredients. 

Be sure to check the expiration date and replace as needed since paraben-free products have a shorter shelf life.

Do parabens mess with hormones?

Parabens are considered to be endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which means they can affect hormone production. Hormonal imbalances can cause various health problems, so it's safest to avoid any products that might disrupt hormone production.

Are parabens bad for acne?

Since parabens can affect your hormone levels, they may cause or worsen acne. If you have acne-prone skin, use skincare products with natural ingredients that won’t irritate your skin.

Are parabens bad for skin? Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful. While a small amount of parabens may not be cause for concern, paraben-free products can offer peace of mind. Natural products are best for avoiding irritants and treating your skin with the love it deserves.