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preservative

Methylparaben

Fearmongered, actually fine·Strong evidence

A preservative that keeps products free of mold and bacteria. Reviewed repeatedly and considered safe at the low levels used.

The myth vs the evidence

The paraben-cancer scare traces to one small 2004 study that found parabens in breast tumor tissue but showed no cause and was never replicated. The FDA, CIR, and EU SCCS all affirm parabens are safe at cosmetic use levels. A good preservative is a feature, not a flaw.

Products with Methylparaben

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.