Substances known as parabens have the ability to prevent the development of microorganisms, so they are commonly used as preservatives. Unfortunately, they are linked to skin allergies, environmental hormones, and breast cancer. SKIN DEEP, an organization that provides information related to the chemicals in cosmetics, has classified parabens as carcinogenic, with potential to cause reproductive and developmental toxicity, and can potentially trigger allergic and immunotoxic responses.

• Methylparaben
• Ethylparaben
• Propylparaben
• Butylparaben
• Isobutylparaben
• Isopropylparaben
• Phenylparaben
• Benzylparaben
• Pentylparaben

Global health organisations such as the FDA, the American Cancer Society, and Health Canada believe that parabens are safe to use in consumer products. However, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics expresses concern that the recommended limitations for single and total paraben concentrations in a single product do not take into account the combined exposure of multiple products used by an individual.