Many arguments are going on in the circles about the ill
effects of parabens and the need to avoid them in cosmetics, especially in
those which are meant for children. However, the most unfortunate thing is that
majority of the public are unaware about what parabens are and how they affect
the health of children.
About Parabens
Parabens are certain types of chemicals that occur naturally
in some food articles such as Blueberries. These chemicals are generally used
as preservatives in cosmetics to increase the shelf life of the product. They stop moulds and bacteria to grow and
spoil the product. Different parabens deals with different organisms and hence
a combination of different parabens is being used as preservatives. They are very
effective and at the same time cheap also. That is why parabens are widely used
as preservatives in cosmetic products, especially those meant for children.
Worries about
Parabens
Certain types of parabens, especially propylparaben and butylparaben
are found to be affecting the male reproduction system badly. They found to
mimic female hormone and thus affects the male reproductive system. Although
this has been established through many studies conducted in animals, its
effects on human reproductive system has not been confirmed so far. In real, no
studies have been conducted in this regard so far. However, some parabens are
under safety assessment now which clearly indicates that the ill-effects are
doubted.
Measures to be taken
to ensure safety of children
Most of the cosmetic manufacturers are using paraben as
preservative because they are cheap. By using parabens they can control their
price to a greater extent which is necessary in today’s highly competitive
market. However, there are many other preservatives which are equally effective
as parabens but do not have the side effects as parabens are having. These may
be a bit costly, still come cosmetic manufacturers with social commitment use
these preservatives in their products.
Such manufacturers will be printed “Paraben-free” on the
label. Such products are comparatively safer for children. If you found any
baby cosmetics that are natural cosmetics and paraben free, you can decide on
them without any doubt. It will not affect your child adversely. Even experts
are saying a strong ‘NO’ to chemical cosmetics to babies as it will affect
their soft skin in the long run. Children are the gift of god and it is our
duty to bring them up safely and healthy. We should not compromise of the quality
of cosmetics meant for them for the sake of a few bucks.
