Everywhere you look, you've probably seen products that are labeled "paraben free." This might leave you with questions, but we have the answers you need. Below, we will explain what parabens are, how you can tell if they're in your shampoo, and why we recommend using a paraben free shampoo.



What Exactly Are Parabens?
Parabens are chemicals used as preservatives because of their antibacterial and antifungal properties. These additives are common in beauty products that contain a lot of water, as they can increase the shelf life dramatically. Shampoos, deodorants, shower gels and many other beauty products tend to include parabens in their formula. A quick search of your bathroom cabinet would probably result in dozens of products that contain these chemicals.

If you're wondering whether your shampoo contains parabens, there's an easy way to check. Read the ingredient list on the bottle and look for any term that ends in "paraben". Some common examples are Methylparaben, Propylparaben, and Ethylparaben. If you find any of these ingredients, you've got parabens.

Why You Might Want to Avoid Parabens
Though research is still ongoing, there is evidence that some parabens might be able to mimic the effects of Estrogen in your body. Traces of these chemicals have been found in breast cancer tumors. There is much debate about this evidence, but the initial findings are still worrisome. Many health-conscious customers would rather play it safe and choose only paraben free shampoos for their daily routine. Who wants to risk something so serious?



Both the FDA and The American Cancer Society have released materials stating that there is no definitive link between cancer and parabens. Despite this, many people are still nervous. If parabens are mimicking Estrogen, they could potentially increase the risks of breast cancer and lead to accelerated puberty in girls. When considering the possibilities, many consumers are refusing to use anything but a paraben free shampoo. Beauty companies are soothing fears by producing lines of products that don't contain parabens. One example of this is Art Naturals Argan Oil Shampoo, $15.

Is Silicone Bad Too?
With so many chemicals in our beauty products and the emphasis on paraben free shampoo, you may be wondering what else you should avoid. Silicone is another additive in shampoos and conditioners that should be used with caution. Though there are no risks to your general health, it may actually make your hair look dirty.



Silicone is the substance in hair care products that results in extra shine and low frizz. This additive isn't bad for you, but it tends to stick around in your hair after washing. This can lead to a build-up that will attract dirt and leave your hair looking dull, flat, and even greasy. Limit your use of this chemical by only using silicone free shampoo and silicone free conditioner, like Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Shampoo, $19.