While shopping for self-care products, you may have often come across phrases like “paraben-free” and “sulphate-free” written in bold across the product. Well, do you ever wonder why does it matter? Why should paraben and sulphates be avoided? Does it make a product better?

In the last few years, scientific research has shown that parabens and sulphates can be harmful and damaging to your skin as well as your health. As the information spread, consumers as well as brands started to become more conscious about the ingredients used in the products. While some brands started producing sulphate and paraben-free products along with educating the consumers about the ill effects of these chemicals, consumers also started gravitating towards these safer options. 

What are parabens and why are they harmful? 

Parabens are chemicals that are derived from para-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) that are used as preservatives in products, preventing the growth of bacteria. Until recently, parabens were the most commonly used preservative in cleansing products as well as consumable items. However, studies show that parabens are harmful to health as they act as endocrine disruptors and can cause hormonal dysfunction. Further, parabens can increase the risk of cancer and cause skin allergies. 

A good alternative to products containing parabens is products formulated with artificial preservatives that maintain the shelf life of products while being gentle on the skin and health. 

What are sulphates and why are they harmful? 

Sulphates are salts created by a chemical reaction between sulphuric acid and other chemicals. Sulphates are what make a lather and make a product soap-like. They are commonly used in detergent products as they are able to clean grease and dirt easily. However, sulphates are harsh and can damage the skin. Further, due to their harsh nature, they strip the skin completely of their natural oils and make it dry. Skin irritation and inflammation are some other common side effects of sulphates. 

In skincare, sulphates are commonly found in shampoos and cleansers in the form of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES). You don’t need these sulphates in your products, they just produce a lot of lather which gives us the illusion of a better cleanse and damage your skin as discussed above. 

What should you keep in mind? 

• Make sure to use products that are gentle on your skin while helping you achieve your skin goals. 
• Always look for paraben-free and sulphate-free products. Additionally, go for cruelty-free products. There are plenty of safe and cruelty-free options available in the market today.
• Always read the ingredient label of the product. Make sure that there are no harmful toxins in it.