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What are parabens?

May 23, 2013 | Articles | Leave a Comment

toiletriesMake-up and cosmetics contain a variety of ingredients which are absorbed through the skin and may even be breathed in (fine particles in powders, etc.).  Chemical preservatives called parabens are used in many cosmetics and make-up products to fight bacteria and fungus.

Parabens are readily absorbed through the skin and may be linked to breast cancer tumours (it is said that parabens seem to mimic the oestrogen hormone which may play a role in the development of these tumours and is thought to be a factor in the increasing prevalence of early puberty in girls). In individuals with paraben allergies, skin irritations like contact dermatitis and rosacea can develop.

Methylparaben may also accelerate the aging process in skin cells when exposed to UVB. It has been suggested that parabens may also lead to the degeneration of eye tissue, resulting in the early loss of eyesight.

Parabens most commonly listed in cosmetic or make-up products are:

Methylparaben is found naturally in small amounts in some fruits like blueberries.  Methylparaben is an antimicrobial agent and manufactured Methylparaben is used as a fungicide.  This is toxic in large concentrations.

Ethylparaben is used as an antifungal preservative.



Propylparaben occurs naturally in many plants and some insects and is also obtained from Benzoic Acid.  Manufactured Propylparaben is used as a preservative mainly in water-based creams and lotions.

Butylparaben is an antimicrobial used in eye shadows, foundations, moisturisers, sunscreen and anti-aging products.  This is the paraben that has been linked mainly to breast tumours.

It appears that parabens have now been banned by all the major natural and organic certifiers in the world, including the USA, the UK, Europe, Australia and Japan.

There are many conflicting reports and reviews when it comes to parabens. Some claim that parabens are dangerous and should be avoided, while others claim that parabens in cosmetics are perfectly safe. The choice to continue using products containing parabens is a personal decision and varies widely from person to person.

MakeupWith all this in mind, trying to find paraben-free cosmetics and make-up (especially eyeliners, eye shadows and mascaras) has proved to be rather tricky, as they’re not readily available to the average consumer (in South Africa anyway) and one has to do quite a bit of research or hear via word-of-mouth of a particular brand and where to get it from.

I have come across a few products that are paraben-free and have begun compiling a list of paraben, phthalate and SLS free make-up and cosmetics: “Paraben free make-up and cosmetics“.

Please remember that if you’re starting to use a new range of skincare products, do a sensitivity patch test 24 hours prior to use (either behind your ear or on the inner arm). Once you start using a new product, give your skin time to adjust.  It’ll take 2-3 months for your skin to settle down and reflect the benefits of any new products you use.

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About

Debbie is a qualified nail technician and freelance make-up artist, based in Army Bay, Whangaparaoa (Auckland).

Debbie studied nail technology at Monaco Nail Academy (qualified in 2015), and uses the Artistic Nail Design range which includes Colour Gloss gel polish, Artistic Putty (also known as PolyGel), and Rock Hard LED Gel.

Debbie also holds CIBTAC and ITEC qualifications in make-up artistry, and obtained these in 2010 and 2012 respectively.

Disclaimer

I do not receive monetary compensation for any of the product reviews posted on my blog. All reviews are based on my own personal opinion after purchasing and using the products myself.

If I am approached by a company to review a product for them at any time (or am paid to do so), this will be mentioned in the relevant post. Being given free products, or being paid to promote a product will not change my personal honest opinion of the product.

Please bear in mind that every body is unique, and although I may not have an allergic reaction to the make-up or skincare products that I have reviewed, your skin may react differently. Wherever possible, please patch test new make-up and skincare products on yourself before purchasing them.

Thank you,
Debbie
Rambling Rose Nails & Make-up

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As per tonight’s Covid announcement, Auckland is As per tonight’s Covid announcement, Auckland is going into Level 3 lockdown at 6am tomorrow morning for seven days. This means that I have to cancel all appointments for the next week, and close my business temporarily.  I have already contacted all clients who were booked in from Tuesday to Saturday, informing them of this. 

I will only be able to reopen the salon and rebook appointments once we move into Level 2.  The online booking system will be reactivated once we move into Level 2. 

Thank you for your understanding and ongoing support. 
Stay safe x

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Are you ready for Autumn nail art vibes, or are yo Are you ready for Autumn nail art vibes, or are you still clinging on to bright Summery nails? 

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Fun fact for your Saturday morning 🙂 #funfacts Fun fact for your Saturday morning 🙂

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When it's a client's birthday and she wants "Unico When it's a client's birthday and she wants "Unicorn nails" ...

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And you always feel better when your nails look be And you always feel better when your nails look beautiful.

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I love the colour combination that this client cho I love the colour combination that this client chose for their PolyGel extensions.

Artistic Colour Gloss in Fashionista, Goddess and Gear to my Heart.

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Who else loves wearing purple nail polish? #purp Who else loves wearing purple nail polish? 

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For those of you who can't afford a gel polish man For those of you who can't afford a gel polish manicure every three weeks, we have buffing blocks for sale.  Buffing your natural nails helps to improve blood circulation to the nail plate, it gives them a shiny finish without the use of nail polish, and makes them look pretty and well maintained. 

You can find these buffing blocks (along with a few other at-home nail essentials) in our online store www.ramblingrose.co.nz/shop or use the link in the bio and navigate to the shop on the menu bar.  We ship throughout NZ (rural courier fees apply).

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Do you prefer a matte or shine finish on your mani Do you prefer a matte or shine finish on your manicure?

Me? ... I quite like matte nails in winter and a shiny finish in summer, but that's just my personal preference.

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