Parabens are a group of chemicals that are widely used as artificial preservatives in cosmetic and body care products since the 1920s. They are effective preservatives in many types of formulas and are used primarily for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties. Parabens are found in a wide variety of cosmetics, including shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, face and skin cleaners, sunscreens, deodorants, and shaving products, among others. They are added to prevent and reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and mold, increasing the shelf life of the product.

However, there is concern that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. Studies have detected parabens in nearly all urine samples taken from adults in the U.S., regardless of demographic. Moreover, paraben discharge into the environment is common due to its ubiquitous use in cosmetic products. While the FDA does not have information showing that parabens as they are used in cosmetics have an effect on human health, they continue to review published studies on the safety of parabens.

In summary, parabens are synthetic chemicals that are used as preservatives in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. While they are effective in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and mold, there is concern that they can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. Parabens are found in a wide variety of cosmetics, including shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, face and skin cleaners, sunscreens, deodorants, and shaving products, among others.