At Skinny & Co., we believe that our pure coconut oil products should not contain any manufacturing chemicals. To explain this belief further, we’ve been sharing a series of blog posts about the different types of chemicals commonly found in beauty products that we will never include in any of our products. To date, we’ve addressed why we don’t use phthalates sulfates, or preservatives in our products.
Up next? Parabens.
What are parabens?
Parabens are chemicals commonly used in cosmetics as preservatives in cosmetics. As such, they help prevent harmful bacteria and mold from growing in products in an effort to protect the product and the users.
The parabens you will find most often in cosmetics are methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben. These are often used in combination with other preservatives in products.
Are parabens harmful to humans?
At this time, FDA scientists are reviewing published studies about the safety of parabens, though they state that, “At this time, we do not have information showing that parabens as they are used in cosmetics have an effect on human health.”
That being said, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (CSC) reports, “Of greatest concern is that parabens are known to disrupt hormone function, an effect that is linked to increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive toxicity.” The CSC also states that, “Parabens mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells.” As a result, the perceived influx of estrogen beyond normal levels can increase breast cell division and the growth of tumors, in some cases. Additionally, parabens have also been linked to reproductive, immunological, neurological, and skin irritation problems, according to CSC.
Parabens in cosmetics
According to researchers, in your typical grocery store, 90 percent of products contain measurable amounts of parabens; these include foods and drugs as well as cosmetics. The cosmetics you’ll find that that may contain parabens include makeup, moisturizers, hair care products, shaving products, and toothpastes. You may also find parabens in deodorants, though many major brands do not use them.
No parabens in Skinny & Co. products
The pure coconut oil produced by Skinny & Co. is completely natural, and there have actually been multiple studies done that show that coconut oil itself is antimicrobial, making parabens unnecessary. (Remember, though, that it is still best practice not to share personal products with anyone, ever.)
Final thoughts
Skinny & Co. wants all customers always feel safe putting our pure coconut oil products in and on their bodies. To learn more about this, make sure you check back in with our blogs to learn about the other chemicals we refuse to put in our products.