Is paraben-free makeup actually better for you?
Use paraben-free when possible. They are absorbed and show up in blood and urine. Especially important for kids.
What's actually in it
Parabens are a family of preservatives used in cosmetics, personal care products, and some foods. The most common are methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben. They extend shelf life by preventing bacteria and mold.
Parabens are absorbed through skin and the gut. Studies have detected them in breast tissue, urine, and blood. They mimic estrogen at low concentrations.
What the research says
A 2026 study in j steroid biochem mol biol found that bisphenol A derivatives as potent inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2: A structure-activity study..
Ren X(1), Shi L(2), Chen X(3), Tang Y(1), Ying Y(1), Ge R(4), Zhu Q(5)..
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Bisphenol A derivatives as potent inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2: A structure-activity study. | J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol | 2026 |
What to use instead
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