Are antiperspirants linked to breast cancer?
Parabens a chemical preservative commonly used in cosmetics and body-care products have been found in samples of breast cancer tumours. This demonstrates that parabens can be absorbed through the skin from frequently applied products such as antiperspirants and creams, and can persist and accumulate in breast tissue in their original form. Parabens and phthalates are two kinds of chemicals that are often used in cosmetics and body care products. They have been banned from products sold in the European Union but they are still commonly found in products available in North America. Although most major cosmetics companies claim their products are safe, 89 percent of the 10,500 ingredients used in products sold in the U.S. have not been assessed for safety, according to the Food & Drug Administration. No such statistic exists for Canada. As of November 16, 2006, Canada will require ingredient disclosure on cosmetics or personal care products. For more information check out Skin Deep or the
