Parabens are a class of synthetic chemicals used as preservatives. They are identified by several names, including methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben, and parahydroxybenzoate.

Chemically, parabens are esters, compounds formed by an alcohol and an organic acid. They are added to a wide variety of products to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Relatively easy and inexpensive to produce, parabens are added to a many common everyday products, including cosmetics (moisturizer, lipstick, foundation, concealer, eye makeup, and makeup removers), hygienic products (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, topical ointments, shaving gel, deodorant, sunscreen, eye drops, bandages), household or industrial products (textiles, glues), and even foods and beverages (salad dressing, mayonnaise, mustard, processed vegetables, frozen dairy products, jelly, soft drinks, baked goods).

Some researchers have been concerned about parabens since the 1990s because they are endocrine-disrupting substances which mimic the hormone estrogen. Parabens fit into special estrogen receptors in your cells; once these receptors are filled, other glands and neurotransmitters change because of the presence of this faux-estrogen.

Because parabens are so widespread, it is hard to determine their affect on our health. Suspicions that they may be harmful focus primarily on reproductive health. The estrogenic nature of these substances causes some researchers to speculate that they may play a role in the development of breast cancer. They have also been implicated in early onset of menstruation among pre-teenage girls. Some researchers think parabens may also effect the secretion of testosterone and the male reproductive system, but research to date is inconclusive.

Complete avoidance of parabens is nearly impossible, but to limit your children’s exposure, here are a few tips:

• Shop carefully. Even for products marked “natural” or “organic,” always check the ingredients before you purchase any item.
• Research. The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep Database of cosmetics and personal use products is a good starting point for researching products, including sunscreen.
• Use less. Many people overuse hygienic products. Most babies don’t need lotions or soaps. Young children typically need just a dab of soap with warm water at bathtime; dry skin or rashes can be spot-treated.