Definition: A chemical compound often found in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even in some food. Most of the time, there is only 1% or less paraben concentration added to cosmetic products. They use parabens as a preservative, to help prevent fungi, mold, and bacteria, which helps to prolong the product's shelf life. Parabens are a hot topic currently because of the charges of parabens acting as estrogen compounds in the body, which affect the endocrine system.
Also Known As: methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl (alkyl-p-hydroxybenzoates)
Common Misspellings: Parebens, Paribens, Parabins