Parabens
Parabens is a collective name for a group of substances that are used as preservatives in, for example, cosmetics and skin care.
What is its function?
Preservatives are added to cosmetics to prevent bacteria, yeasts and mold from growing in your moisturiser or in your makeup.
What is less good?
Some parabens are considered suspected endocrine disruptors. This means that they could potentially affect the hormone balance in your body, which may lead to difficiulties in conceiving. Other parabens can cause allergic reactions.
Where to find them?
Parabens can be found in cosmetics, beauty products, shampoos, skin care, sunscreens, and some foods.
What does the Nordic Swan think about parabens?
The Nordic Swan Ecolabel adheres to the precautionary principle. This means that, where there is not enough information about how a substance affects humans and the environment, we choose to exclude it rather than allow it. Thus, the Nordic Swan bans parabens in cosmetic products.