Paraben Free

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Paraben-Free Skincare and Natural Preservatives

Paraben-free skincare is preserved without methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben or any other paraben. Every water-based product still needs a preservative, so paraben-free formulas use alternatives such as fermented radish root, lactobacillus ferments, or gluconolactone with sodium benzoate. This collection holds two finished Skin Perfection products and two Leucidal preservatives for people who make their own skincare.

What Parabens Are and Why People Avoid Them

The FDA describes parabens as a family of related chemicals commonly used as preservatives to keep bacteria and mold from growing in cosmetics. The ones used most are methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben and ethylparaben. The FDA states that it does not have information showing that parabens as used in cosmetics affect human health, and that its scientists continue to review published studies.

Rules differ by region. In 2014 the European Union added isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, phenylparaben, benzylparaben and pentylparaben to its list of substances prohibited in cosmetics. Many shoppers choose paraben-free products as a personal preference, and that is the choice this collection makes easy. To spot parabens on a label, look for any ingredient ending in "-paraben."

Products in This Collection

Finished products

The Wrinkle Eraser Supercharged Peptide Serum is for the look of expression lines and firmness. Its ingredient list includes Argireline, Snap-8, Matrixyl 3000, Matrixyl Synthe-6, Syn-Ake, Inyline, Pepha Tight, Relistase, Syn-Coll, Juveleven, Uplevity and Adipofill-in in a hyaluronic acid base, preserved with Leucidal Complete (radish root ferment, lactobacillus and coconut fruit extract). Apply a pea-size drop to slightly damp skin.

Skin Polish Instant Glow Microdermabrasion is a two-ingredient powder: sodium bicarbonate and bamboo stem powder. Because it contains no water, it needs no preservative. Mix a quarter-size amount into your cleanser for a physical exfoliation that leaves skin looking smoother and brighter.

Preservatives for DIY formulas

Leucidal Liquid Radish Root is a radish root ferment made with Leuconostoc kimchii, a mild antimicrobial. Leucidal SF Complete is a lactobacillus and coconut ferment with broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast and mold. Both are used at 2 to 4% and added at cool-down. Use 4%, the top of the range: 4 g per 100 g batch, or about 36 drops per fluid ounce.

Compare the Products

Product Key ingredients Best for Price from
Wrinkle Eraser Supercharged Peptide Serum Argireline, Snap-8, Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Ake, Inyline, Pepha Tight, hyaluronic acid Look of expression lines and firmness $99.95 (0.5 oz)
Skin Polish Instant Glow Microdermabrasion Bamboo stem powder, sodium bicarbonate Weekly physical exfoliation, dull-looking skin $19.95 (4 oz)
Leucidal Liquid Radish Root Radish root ferment filtrate Mild DIY preservation $15.95 (0.5 oz)
Leucidal SF Complete Lactobacillus ferment, coconut fruit extract Broad-spectrum DIY preservation $15.95 (1 oz)

How to Use Them Together

Once or twice a week, cleanse with Skin Polish mixed into your face wash, massaging each area for 30 to 60 seconds, then rinse. Apply Wrinkle Eraser to damp skin and follow with moisturizer. If you make your own serums, add 4% Leucidal SF Complete to any formula that contains water and mix with clean, sanitized tools. The product pages recommend challenge testing any formula you plan to keep. Sensitive skin: patch test on the inner arm for 24 hours, and skip Skin Polish on days your skin feels tender. For more options, see our full range of natural preservatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are parabens bad for your skin?

The FDA says it does not have information showing that parabens as used in cosmetics affect human health, and it continues to review the research. The European Union bans five less common parabens. Choosing paraben-free is a personal preference that many shoppers make.

What does paraben-free mean?

It means the product contains no ingredient from the paraben family, such as methylparaben or propylparaben. It does not mean preservative-free. Water-based paraben-free products use a different preservative.

What preservatives are used instead of parabens?

Common alternatives include radish root ferment (Leucidal Liquid), lactobacillus ferments (Leucidal SF Complete), gluconolactone with sodium benzoate, and phenoxyethanol. Products with no water, such as powders and pure oil blends, do not need one.

Do paraben-free products expire faster?

A paraben-free product is not shorter-lived by default; shelf life depends on the preservative system, the packaging and storage. Airless bottles, clean hands and a cool, dry place all help. Follow the date or period-after-opening symbol on the label.

How do I know if a product has parabens?

Read the ingredient list and look for any word ending in "-paraben," such as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben or butylparaben.

Sources

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

About the Author
Written by Kari Thomas, cosmetic formulator and founder of Skin Perfection.