<p>Harsh chemicals are typically best avoided, especially when it comes to what we put on our bodies every day. But sometimes nasty additives can be lurking in a variety of self-care products, making them tough to avoid entirely. Take parabens, for example. While we’ve detailed the concerns over these cosmetic preservatives <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/why-you-should-use-paraben-free-products"target="_blank">before</a>, there’s a good chance you’re still struggling to nix them from your bathroom cabinets. Not to worry! Taking a more natural approach to your personal care routine requires some time and research. As always, we’re here to help. Here’s what you need to know about going paraben-free. </p>

<h2>What Are Parabens?</h2>

<p>Found in a variety of personal care items from makeup to soaps to skin care products, parabens are a group of preservatives used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties. The following chemicals are all considered parabens: </p>
<br>
<ul>
<li>Methylparaben</li>
<li>Ethylparaben</li>
<li>Propylparaben </li>
<li>Butylparaben </li>
<li>Heptyparaben </li>
</ul>
<h2>Why Shop Paraben-Free?</h2>

<p>Concern over the use of parabens arose in the <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=ESNXDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA160&lpg=PA160&dq=1990s+parabens+found+xenoestrogens&source=bl&ots=hoh3ZE2l1s&sig=NQ1kWZVxC3uc08XnchL2BXJJ4FU&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_tPO8w7LPAhVaGGMKHYH2DB8Q6AEIOjAF#v=onepage&q=1990s%20parabens%20found%20xenoestrogens&f=false"target="_blank">1990s</a> when it was discovered that parabens have the potential to act as endocrine disruptors. <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/what-are-endocrine-disruptors" target="_blank">Endocrine disruptors</a> mimic hormones in the human body effectively disrupting hormone balances, including estrogen levels in women. This information was especially alarming because estrogen disruption has been linked to <a href="https://bcaction.org/our-take-on-breast-cancer/environment/safe-cosmetics/paraben-free-cosmetics/"target="_blank">breast cancer</a>. While some countries mandate limits on the amount of parabens in products, the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/parabens-cosmetics"target="_blank">FDA</a> doesn’t have special rules that apply to preservatives in cosmetics. Therefore, shopping smart and reading labels carefully is the best way to avoid these problematic preservatives.  </p>

<h2>Tips for Shopping Paraben-Free</h2>

<p>Take a cleaner approach to your <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/c/beauty" target="_blank">beauty routine</a> with these paraben-free shopping tips: </p>
<br>
<ul>
<li>Look for cosmetic products labeled “paraben-free.”</li>
<li>Make your own all-natural beauty products when possible.</i>
<li>Shop organic, preservative-free brands, but pay close attention to expiration dates.  </li>
<li>Remember that parabens can go by many names (like methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, or anything with the suffix “-paraben”). </li>
</ul>

<h2>Top Paraben-Free Brands</h2>

<p>Stock up on these nature-based beauty essentials. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/acure"target="_blank">Acure</a></h2>

<p>This family-owned business helps you look good and feel even better with products made with organic, wholesome ingredients—and without harsh chemicals and pesticides. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/acure-moroccan-argan-oil"target="_blank">Acure Moroccan Argan Oil</a></h3>

<p>We love multitasking products like this one-ingredient must-have, a rich, hydrating argan oil. Try it as a serum, body oil, or split-end mender. It’s rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E for all-over softness.</p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/kiss-my-face"target="_blank">Kiss My Face</a></h2>

<p>Go easy on yourself and the earth with high-quality, organic ingredients courtesy of Mother Nature. This self-care company creates products from soap to deodorant to toothpaste that are effective yet gentle, and made using environmentally-friendly practices.</p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/dr-bronners"target="_blank">Dr. Bronner’s</a></h2>

<p>This beloved brand got its start handcrafting soap back in 1858. With clean, fair trade ingredients and iconic packaging, Dr. Bronner’s has gone on to become a household name in the world of natural beauty and home products.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/dr-bronners-liquid-castile-soap-organic-peppermint"target="_blank">Organic Peppermint Castile Liquid Soap</a></h3>

<p>Get an invigorating burst of peppermint when you step into the shower thanks to this multipurpose wash, which is free of dyes, additives, and harsh chemicals. You can even use it to mop the floor!</p>

<h2>You Might Like</h2>

<p>Want more natural beauty secrets? Dig into the Thrive Market blog! </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/using-coconut-oil-for-skin-conditions"target="_blank">Coconut Oil for Skin Conditions</a></h3>

<p>The answer to your most pressing skin concerns might be hiding to your pantry. Learn how coconut oil can help treat conditions like chapped lips, sunburns, dry skin, and even acne.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/want-kissable-lips-exfoliate-with-this-diy-sugar-and-spice-scrub"target="_blank">Sugar and Spice Lip Scrub</a></h3>

<p>Pucker up with this exfoliating mix of sugar, raw honey, coconut oil, and cinnamon. Not only will the mixture slough away dead skin and soften lips, but it’s downright delicious. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/this-diy-seaweed-and-essential-oil-bath-bomb-brings-the-spa-experience-home"target="_blank">DIY Essential Oil Bath Bomb</a></h3>
<p>It doesn’t take much to transform your tub into a spa-like experience. This DIY recipe calls for EVOO, baking soda, and essential oil for a fabulously fizzy soak. </p>

Browse a wide selection of paraben free beauty, bath, and body products with Thrive Market's list of paraben free products so you can skip reading labels.

Conventional beauty products often contain parabens (chemical preservatives) which can sometimes irritate sensitive skin, but not these. Find your new favorite paraben-free essentials for skin, hair, and home.

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