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Propylparaben is a synthetic compound used as a preservative in cosmetics, foods, and pharmaceuticals. It is effective at low concentrations and considered safe up to 25%. However, there are concerns that it may mimic the action of estrogen and contribute to the development of breast cancer. While there is no direct evidence linking parabens to cancer, many people are avoiding products containing these substances. Some manufacturers are looking for alternative ways to preserve their products.
Propylparaben is one of a family of chemicals known as parabens which are compounds of parahydroxybenzoic acid. The others are methyl-, ethyl- and butylparaben. Although these compounds occur naturally, for example in some plants, they are produced synthetically and mainly used as preservatives and antimicrobials in cosmetics, foods and pharmaceuticals. Propylparaben is the most commonly used form. The compound has very low toxicity, but there are concerns that it may play a role in the development of breast cancer, among other things.
Properties and uses
Cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and foods can all deteriorate, due to the action of bacteria and fungi, if they do not contain a preservative or antimicrobial agent. Studies have shown that propylparaben is effective at low concentrations. It is particularly effective at killing or preventing the growth of fungus and works well across the acidity range which includes most products intended for external or internal use. This, combined with its apparent lack of toxicity to humans and other mammals, and its low cost of production, has led to its widespread use in a variety of products.
The compound is widely used in the cosmetic industry and is considered safe at concentrations up to 25%. It has become the preferred preservative, especially for water-based cosmetics, such as moisturizers, shampoos, shower cleaners, conditioners, and sunscreens. Lipsticks, foundations, mascara and eye shadows can also contain it.
In the pharmaceutical industry, propylparaben is a common preservative for some drugs. Consequently, it can be absorbed by humans in several ways: injections, orally or through suppositories. Since these uses involve taking the compound internally, it is not normally found in concentrations greater than 1%. The same goes for its use in food.
Effects on humans
Tests for acute or chronic toxic effects indicated that propylparaben has low mammalian toxicity. It may be mildly irritating to the skin and there are reports of allergic reactions, but it is not thought to cause any other adverse effects directly. It is easily absorbed into the system when taken by mouth, but is rapidly broken down and does not normally appear to accumulate in the body.
The main concern with this substance is that, like other parabens, it can mimic, to some extent, the action of the female hormone, estrogen. While essential for female development, early exposure to the hormone has been linked to breast cancer, and drugs that suppress estrogen are used in the treatment of the disease. There doesn’t seem to be any direct evidence linking parabens to cancer, but there have been a number of studies that have created fear in some users.
In one study, a group of British researchers tested tissue samples taken from women who had cancerous breast tumors. The researchers found traces of parabens in the lumps of all 20 women. This has caused some people to question whether these chemicals have caused cancer.
Other examples of concern include a September 2008 study of 20 girls aged 14 to 19. The girls used more cosmetic products every day, from moisturizers to deodorants to makeup. In that study, propylparaben was found in every girl.
It is possible that parabens also affect men. In a study of male rats fed these chemicals at various doses, testosterone production was found to decrease in proportion to the dose. As of 2013, there is no clear evidence of any adverse effects of these substances on humans and research into them is ongoing, but many people are taking a “better safe than sorry” approach and trying to avoid products containing these substances. chemical substances.
As there is increased awareness of these compounds and concern about their possible effects, some cosmetic manufacturers, especially those of an organic nature, are looking for alternative ways to prevent their products from spoiling or to inhibit microbial growth. Some may just settle for a shorter shelf life, while other manufacturers are looking into other preservatives. Until more information becomes available, the safest course may be to limit your exposure to parabens.
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