What Does It Mean For A Fragrance To Be Paraben Free?

Parabens are man-made chemicals that are used as preservatives in small amounts in perfumes, foods, beverages, medications, shoe polishes, textiles, fats, glues and cosmetic products.

They were first introduced to the food industry in the 1950s when they were used to prolong shelf life and prevent the growth of mold and bacteria within food products.

It is not unusual for more than one paraben to be present in a single item.

According to Dermatologist, Dr Ophelia Veraitch: “Despite being cheap and for the mass markets, they are also added to many luxury sector skin and personal care products…” 

The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the perfume and cosmetic industry and that is why the continued use of these dangerous chemicals has not abated down through the years.

Paraben-free has always been a silent battle cry of ours and all of our fragrance formulations, which are sourced and vetted under the most rigorous of standards.

What Are The Concerns About Parabens?

Some studies have indicated that parabens can wreak havoc with the hormone, estrogen, which is found in both men and women where they are known to adversely affect fertility and sperm count.

They may also influence pregnancy and menstruation.

In the words of Heather Wish, Education Manager for Paula's Choice Skincare:

“The reason there are concerns about parabens is because of research suggesting they can alter or disrupt how some biological systems work, potentially leading to health problems…The studies used to make these alarming allegations didn’t take into consideration how parabens are used in cosmetic products. In some studies, high concentrations (up to 100%) of parabens were used. Much lower amounts, usually less than 1%, are used to preserve cosmetics.”

According to Dermatologist, Dr Ophelia Dr Veraitch: “In recent years there have been growing concerns about the use of parabens in self care products. A British study found 19 out of 20 women studied had parabens in their breast tissue. This has …shown that the parabens in self care products don't just sit on the skin but they can be integrated and remain into our bodily tissues…”

Are Parabens Dangerous To The Environment?

Due to the fact that these chemicals are not easily biodegradable, they are known to remain in the environment for a long time.

As such, they can enter water supplies and accumulate in aquatic organisms, which is harmful to the ecosystem.

Studies have indicated that they contribute to increased water pollution and according once again to Dr Veraitch: “They are believed to cause harm to marine life, where they've been found inside sea creatures and to damage and kill coral.’’

How Does Exposure Occur?

Parabens become absorbed into the skin via lotions, shampoos and makeup.

They can also find their way into the human bloodstream through the foods we eat. 

Most Americans have some level of parabens in their bodies. Lipstick, lip balm, soaps, moisturizers, shampoos, and shaving creams all contain these dangerous chemicals.

They can also gain ingress to the body when pharmaceuticals, perfumes, foods, and drinks containing these chemicals are inhaled.

The FDA And Regulations Concerning Paraben Levels

The United States Food and Drug Administration does not currently regulate paraben levels in products despite growing concern of endocrine-disrupting activity.

They permit multiple parabens to be added to food or food packaging because they contain anti-microbial properties that prevent food spoilage.

While there have been studies that have indicated that that these chemicals are safe when used in low levels, societal fear of health repercussions remain steadfast.

The Meaning Behind Paraben-Free in Diffuser Oil Fragrances

It's important to note that the percentage of preservatives in a formulation is generally very small.

While the meaning of the words, “paraben free,” may seem obvious, they can be both confusing and deceptive due to the many myths, misconceptions and misinformation surrounding their use in perfumery.

Many preservatives are safe for humans and planet Earth, but consumers must become their own advocates and educate themselves to distinguish between legitimate facts and persisting myths and rumors.

They must learn to always look for perfume labels that clearly indicate they do not contain parabens, sulfates and other harmful chemicals.

Strictly speaking, paraben-free perfumes contain essential oils that contain no parabens and focus instead on natural essences and plant extracts.

These fragrances are gentle to the skin and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Their selection is also one step towards sustainability and the reduction of our carbon footprint. 

What To Look For In Choosing Paraben Free Fragrances

Labels tell the tale and often by what they do not reveal.

If a label does not designate that the product is free from parabens, sulfates and other harmful chemicals, it is not.

When deciphering descriptions, it is important to note that it is not just a matter of looking for the words, “contains parabens.”

Derivatives should also be avoided and these include: methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben and propylparaben.

The best choice is always a transparent brand whose powers-that-be disclose all ingredients, enabling the consumer to make healthy choices.

Research popular fragrance houses, niche perfumeries and other brands that have taken a positive and public stance on providing safe fragrances for both humans and the environment.

The transition to paraben-free perfumes takes some time and is best accomplished by starting small.

Phasing out conventional fragrances can begin by using only one paraben-free fragrance in a perfume regimen at a time and gradually eliminating the others. 

Over time, this greatly benefits the skin, which does not quickly adapt to the change offered by less harsh fragrances.

The benefits include: improved skin texture; reduced sensitivity and general well being.

The adjustment period varies from person to person and any skin reactions must be immediately addressed.

Future Outlook 

The hope for a commitment to ethical consumption of all products is in the air, or blowing in the wind, as Bob Dylan used to say.

Choosing just one paraben-free perfumes is an important move in this direction.

It silently leads the way to adopting natural ingredients, safe practices, transparency and probity within the cosmetic/beauty industry.

By making informed choices and advocating for clean standards, consumers can become important catalysts for the achievement of a brighter, healthier future for both humans and planet Earth.

All Of Our Diffuser Oil Fragrances Are Paraben-Free

Our diffuser oils represent the first step along the journey to healthier fragrance choices.

They are comprised of the finest ingredients, are always free from parabens and Phthalates and contain the highest possible concentration of elements.

They are also Non GMO, Vegan and free from synthetic colors.

Give one of our fragrances a try, and let their paraben-free, aromatic beauty transport your mind and soul!