"The Paraben Shop" and "Bath & Paraben Works"

Since working on a campaign for an environmentally friendly hair salon, Berns & Black, my eyes have been opened to the terrible world of parabens. I had never heard of parabens before I began this campaign for a school project.

I always hear people say they use organic hair and body products, but I never know exactly what that means and I have never heard someone say they use "paraben free" products. So I have done some research and looked into the research that my peers Jenn and Megan have done. So to sum it up for you in layman's terms, I've learned that parabens are harmful preservatives used in cosmetics to make them last longer on the shelf. But, they have been linked very strongly recently to breast cancer.

This is not something to take lightly because breast cancer claims the lives of about 100 Canadian women every week, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. So, for those of you that are thinking "well everything is linked to cancer" as you read this, remember there have been studies done and they have research to prove that parabens are harmful. So why take the risk? Why not choose to use paraben free products in hopes that it may be one more thing preventing you from getting to know the scary disease known as cancer? It's not hard to do.

Okay, I'll admit, it is hard to do. But it will be worth it if it's what stops you from taking a seat in the chemo chair. But, I feel for you and understand how hard it is to find out your favourite cosmetic is loaded with parabens and have to part with it.

I did a bathroom scan tonight and found out that my FAVOURITE perfumes and lotions contained the harmful preservatives. Every single Bath & Body Works and Body Shop product I own has parabens in it. This was like taking a punch to my stomach because I am a total scent person. I LOVE SMELLS. It is my favourite of the five senses. Unfortunately, I found out tonight that my favourite smelling products, Chanel and Bath & Body Works Japanese Cherry Blossom both are both on the paraben hit list.
So afterwords I felt regret and wished I had not done the bathroom scan. But, I know in the long run it will benefit me and if anything raise my awareness.

One more thing before I sign off: I was SHOCKED that every single Body Shop product I own has parabens in it because they are always boasting about being natural and good for the environment! BOGUS! In their defense though, I have heard that most of their newer products don't contain parabens. So the best advice I can give you is always look at the labels when purchasing cosmetics and GO DO A BATHROOM SCAN! You'll be shocked!