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Paraben Alternatives

To protect cosmetics against mold and bacteria, most hair and makeup products currently on the market contain preservatives called parabens. While parabens do protect against bacteria and fungi, studies have linked daily exposure to these substances to an increased risk of breast cancer and endocrine problems. Now, many cosmetic manufacturers are searching for new preservative alternatives to parabens that don't appear to pose any major health risks.

  1. Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate

    • Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate is a broad-spectrum preservative that's been proven an effective replacement for parbens in cosmetic products. It is made from glycine, an amino acid often used as a dietary supplement and stomach antacid. Acting as a safeguard against mold, yeast and bacteria, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate works at any pH level and in acidic conditions. In tests, it has been found to be a non-irritating, non-toxic substance to the skin and does no damage to DNA. All of these factors make Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate a safe alternative to parabens that can be just as effective in preserving cosmetics.

    Natural Preservatives

    • Many cosmetics companies are now exploring the use of natural preservatives such as essential oils and vitamins in place of potentially harmful parabens. Not only are some natural preservatives effective antibacterial substances, they're also in line with the all-natural image that many cosmetic companies these days are trying to promote. Certain vitamins and essential oils, including vitamin E, tea tree oil and grape seed extract, can be used to reduce bacteria. Essential oils and vitamins may be paired with other natural substances to make for an effective preservative. One drawback of these natural preservatives when compared to parabens is that they must be used in high concentrations to have a long-term anti-bacterial effect, which could result in skin irritation.

    Organic Acids

    • Increasingly, organic acids are being used to preserve cosmetic products as a non-hazardous paraben substitute. Organic acids are made up of naturally occurring acid and salts. Their un-dissociated acidic form makes organic acids a powerful agent against the molds and yeasts that would otherwise grow in partially liquid cosmetics such as makeup and hair products. A study published in Cosmetics and Toiletries Magazine found that when paired with other preservative ingredients, organic acids can be effective in preserving cosmetics and guarding against bacteria.

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