Paraben-free hair care for wigs and hairpieces

BeautiMark is releasing what it claims is the first collection of paraben-free products for synthetic hair, eliminating parabens as a 'precaution' in response to various scientific findings.

"Some scientific studies imply that parabens are linked to negative health effects, including endocrine system damage, allergic reactions and breast cancer" said the company.

The range includes a synthetic hair shampoo, leave-in spray conditioner, style and hold hair spray, and brilliant shine and shaping cream, all of which are formulated free from parabens.

Although the products are designed for use on synthetic hair, Jessica Martinez from BeautiMark explained that the products will come into contact with the skin on the hands, face and scalp of consumers whilst washing and styling the hair.

The chemicals are used extensively in cosmetics products with the industry claiming that they present and inexpensive, effective and safe method of preserving cosmetics products.

The Food and Drug Administration state that 'at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of cosmetics containing parabens' However, there is concern that the chemicals may have negative affects on the body, particularly in terms of their effects on the hormone system.

Furthermore, a recent scientific study, reported in Experimental Dermatology, expressed concern over the repeated exposure of consumers to these chemicals, due to the fact paraben containing products are often applied multiple times during the day.

The scientists suggested that this may alter the absorption patterns of the chemicals, and called for further research.

Martinez told CosmeticsDesign.com that she believed there was a significant market for paraben free products for synthetic hair.

She explained that the majority of women using synthetic wigs, hairpieces and hair extensions were doing so as a result of various medical treatments such as chemotherapy.

In these cases the individuals are likely to be very aware of the possible carcinogenetic effects external chemicals can have on the body, and wish to diminish this risk as much as possible, she said.

According to Martinez, the company has received a very positive response from consumers and retailers alike, and are currently working on a paraben free product line for human hair, both hairpieces and individual's own hair which should be available at the beginning of 2008.

There are an increasing number of paraben free cosmetics appearing on the market, especially from companies specializing in natural and organic products.

Furthermore it appears the move towards paraben free cosmetics is beginning to affect all areas of the personal care market, with increasingly specialized ranges formulated as paraben free.

Products and ranges that target other sensitive demographic sectors, such as children, have recently arrived on the market, such as the natural and chemical free Trukid line recently released in the US.