How safe are parabens used as preservatives?
Methyl and propyl paraben are two of the most commonly used preservatives in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries. Parabens in general are the most frequently used preservatives in the US. In 1977, approximately 30% of all cosmetics registered with the FDA contained parabens. Methyl and propyl paraben are broad spectrum and are classified to be: nonpoisonous, nonirritating and nonsensitizing. Methyl paraben can be naturally derived from benzoic acid which does not store in the body. It is classified to be safe for the skin and also for the environment. They provide bacterial and fungicidal activity against a diverse number of organisms. They have an extremely low sensitizing risk and are classified as safe. They are even used in intravenous medicines. The range of paraben concentrations used in Ecco Bella’s mascaras, foundations.
