Parabens

Parabens are used as a preservative in personal care products to prevent the occurrence of mold, fungi and bacteria and to extend the shelf life of cosmetics.

There are different types of parabens - methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben to name a few. While the level of concentration of them in any given product is less than one per cent, they are known to imitate estrogen and can increase the risk of breast cancer. They may also cause birth defects in babies, with male infants being at a higher risk.