The Health Diva

Many of our cosmetics, and bath lotions contain paraben, powerful Xeno-oestrogens, which are synthetic compounds that mimic the effect of oestrogen and are fat-soluble, enabling them to store themselves in our bodies. This means they can have an endocrine-disrupting action and it is their cumulative effect that scientists are most concerned about. As well as the potential link to breast cancer, other reproductive issues such as decreased reproductive ability in men (decreased sperm count) are also being investigated.

In our modern technocratic society xeno-oestrogens have been introduced into every aspect of our lives and are found in everything from food to suntan lotions. They include chemicals such as parabens, commonly used as preservatives in personal care products such as moisturisers, shampoos, personal lubricants, lipstick and even toothpaste, and scientists still disagree about their safety.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) believes that there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of cosmetics containing parabens. However, according to the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), there are serious environmental concerns about the way these artificial hormones are affecting our health, wildlife and the food chain as a whole.

For beautiful paraben free cosmetics take a look at our skin care section.