With increasingly more interest in what we eat, it’s a no-brainer that we are more aware of our skincare products and what we put on our face. The biggest culprit to top the list is parabens.

What are Parabens?

Parabens are chemical preservatives used in beauty products to prolong shelf life and prevent mold. Why are Parabens Bad?

Some studies have shown that some parabens can mimic the activity of the hormone estrogen in the body. Estrogenic activity is disruptive to normal hormone function and has been linked with certain forms of breast cancer. However, other studies have shown parabens to have a very weak estrogenic effect.

The Bottom Line?

Relax. It’s hard to say unequivocally that parabens are “bad for us.” The FDA and the World Health Organization consider parabens in small amounts to be safe. The percentage of parabens in most products is very small. The cosmetic industry is using new and effective preservatives so it is no longer necessary to use them.

Want to know if Your Products Contains Parabens?

Look on the label for the following ingredients: methylparaben, propylparaben, isoparaben, or butylparaben.

  • For an approved preservative listing, refer to ECOCERT, a certification body for the development of standards in natural and organic cosmetics.

The Natural beauty selection has expanded over the last few years. Here are our picks for Organic and Natural products!

Ormedic Lip Serum

This lip-enhancing moisturizer instantly infuses lips with soothing hydration while improving the appearance and volume of lip contours. It diminishes fine lines and contains a powerful anti-aging polypeptide complex that supports collagen in the lips so they look naturally firm and full. $20 Available at Solutions Medical Center, Solutionsmedicalcenter.com

Ormedic Biopeptide Cream

Sleep off a day of environmental exposure with this nightly repair crème. It supports skin’s regenerative properties by delivering age-defying nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants that restore moisture and balance and aid in healing. Enhanced with organic Japanese white tea, aloe vera, chamomile, and grape-seed extract. $68 Available at Solutions Medical Center, Solutionsmedicalcenter.com

Balancing Facial Cleanser 

This botanically-based cleanser forgoes traditional sulfate-based cleansing agents, instead relying on a mild, surfactant to gently cleanse and sweep away impurities. Restores balance to skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple. $29 Available at Solutions Medical Center, Solutionsmedicalcenter.com

Renew Radiance

Renew Radiance is 95% Organic and 100% natural. This duo is a glow-maker with two live ferments of black tea and ginseng, four bioferments, and 23 organic plant extracts to perfect skin. Fermented skin care is the “ancient Chinese secret” of ageless skin. Cleansing oil, $22. Fermented Radiance Lotion, $35. Available, exclusively at Renew Wellness Spa. Renewspamemphis.com/901.435.6150. 

By Amy Goode