Implication of parabens in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals: Advantages and limitations

Abstract

Cosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and variable healthcare products used parabens, among other excipients, for their preservative and antimicrobial activities. Paraben derivatives exhibit distinguished physiochemical properties that enable them to be compatible with the formulation of cosmetic agents in different dosage forms. In addition to their potency and efficacy, parabens are economically efficient as they have low‐manufacturing costs. Despite the desirable characteristics, the safety of parabens use is controversial after detecting these chemicals in various biological tissues after repetitive and long‐term use of formulations containing them. The use of parabens drew public health attention after scientific reports linked skin exposure to parabens with health issues, in particular, breast cancer. In response, worldwide authorities set regulations for the allowance concentrations of paraben to be used in variable cosmetic products.

Biodegradable Block Poly(ester amine)s with Pendant Hydroxyl Groups for Biomedical Applications

“…Typical protection against the invasion of bacteria during the treatments is primarily the use of antibiotics, both by administering this drug to patients and by introducing an antibacterial substance into the implanted device itself or on its surface [ 10 ]. In cosmetics, some preservatives have been used as antibacterial substances introduced into the composition of manufactured products and formulations, most often parabens [ 11 ]. Both the widespread use of antibiotics and parabens or other antibacterial substances such as triclosan (TCS) and triclocarban (TCC) carry many risks associated with the formation of pathogenic bacteria with high drug resistance [ 12 ] and with the adverse effect of the listed antibacterial substances on the patient’s health [ 13 ].…”

Plastics and Microplastic in the Cosmetic Industry: Aggregating Sustainable Actions Aimed at Alignment and Interaction with UN Sustainable Development Goals

“…Research has shown some plants and derivatives that have antibacterial and antifungal action ensure greater durability and conservation of products. Notable examples are thyme, turmeric, garlic, tea tree and rosemary, which contain metabolites, such as lectins, alkaloids, terpenoids, polypeptides, polyphenols and polyacetylenes, that have antifungal and antibacterial action [ 50 ].…”

“…They are excellent candidates for the substitution of preservatives and antioxidants derived from petroleum, in addition to adding fragrance, allowing greater collagen production and acting in the treatment of skin dyschromias, among other benefits. The results of studies in this area could promote the discovery of efficient and stable natural antifungal condoms based on the nanoemulsion technique [ 50 ].…”

“…In this regard, studies on the nanoencapsulation of thymol have demonstrated an increase in the durability of the antimicrobial action of EOs. However, for application on a large scale, the global costs of materials and manufacturing exceed those associated with traditional and well-known methods of preservation [ 50 ].…”

Evaluation of Rheum Palmatum Rhizomes Available in Jordanian Markets and Investigation of Its Potential Use as Hair Dye Cosmetics

“…In particular, the oxidative hair dyes and their component. 5 These include sensitization reactions, carcinogenicity, and genotoxicity. [7][8][9] On the other hand, there are negligible toxicities of the natural hair, food, and textile dyes that have been used traditionally since ancient times.…”