Ethyl Paraben in Hair Care Guide

Parabens, including methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben are the most commonly used class of preservatives in personal care products. Parabens have been found to mimic estrogen in laboratory settings and stimulated human breast cancer cells in culture. Paraben residues have also been found in human breast and other tissues as well as urine, and some research indicates that paraben use in personal care products may be associated with breast cancer and male reproductive effects. However, the available research is not yet conclusive on how harmful parabens are at levels typically found in consumer products. Darbre, P and PW Harvey J. Appl. Toxicol. 2008 Jul; 28(5): 561-78; State of the Evidence 2008, Breast Cancer Fund