Methylparaben in skincare is made synthetically. Therefore, Methylparaben is always vegan. Methylparaben is a preservative used in skincare. It inhibits the growth of bacteria and maintains the product’s effect.
This paraben is widely used in the cosmetic and skincare industry. But the ingredient is suspected of being harmful to health. Now, let’s read more about the effects of methylparaben.
What Is Methylparaben? What Is Methylparaben Made Of?
Methylparaben is one of the preservatives that belongs to the paraben group. It could be derived from plants but it is mostly made synthetically.
Parabens are salts and esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid. The acid has an antibacterial effect. So, it ensures that creams, lotions, and other products last a long time.
So, methylparaben is also found in fruits and vegetables. Such as blueberries, cucumbers, cherries, and others. But it is usually found in the form of PHBA aka para-hydroxybenzoic acid. To get methylparaben, PHBA has to be further processed.
However, nowadays, and mostly in skincare, methylparaben is synthesized. It comes as colorless crystals or white crystalline powder.
Unlike other preservatives, parabens carry a low risk of causing allergies. And they are chemically easy to manufacture. That is why methylparaben is widely used in skincare. However, parabens in high quantities are considered to be harmful.
Why Is Methylparaben Used In Skincare? Is Methylparaben Harmful?
Methylparaben is used in skincare as a preservative. Parabens such as methylparaben prevent skincare products from being attacked by germs. Therefore, it extends their shelf life.
Parabens such as methylparaben inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria. It protects skincare from contamination. As parabens, including methylparaben, are easy to manufacture, they are commonly used.
Methylparaben has proven its effectiveness. However, health experts have an opinion that methylparaben is harmful.
Various health institutes have the opinion that methylparaben is not dangerous. But only up to a concentration of 0.4%.
Still, scientists warn against using methylparaben. In 2004, a study linked methylparaben to breast cancer. The scientists were able to detect parabens in the tumor tissue of breast cancer. But, this study is not sufficient to prove the carcinogenicity of the substance.
Moreover, it is undisputed that parabens influence the hormone balance in humans. However, hormonal concerns are unpredictable. So, specific health concerns due to hormonal imbalance are difficult to pinpoint.
FAQ About Methylparaben
Methylparaben is one of the preservatives that belongs to the paraben group. It could be derived from plants but it is mostly made synthetically.
Yes. Methylparaben is vegan.
Methylparaben might be harmful. It has proven its preservative effectiveness. However, health experts have an opinion that methylparaben is harmful. In 2004, a study linked methylparaben to breast cancer. Moreover, it is undisputed that parabens influence the hormone balance in humans.
Summary
Methylparaben is a very effective preservative in various fields. In skincare, it is always synthetic and completely vegan-friendly. However, vegan or not, scientists believe that methylparaben can be harmful to health.
Not only is the list of parabens endlessly long, but it also consists of terms people can not remember. So, if you choose to avoid parabens, shop for vegan skincare products with a paraben-free label.
See also: Best Vegan Skincare Brands
