Oh, and
THIS is a link to an article about parabens. There are many on the internet with similar statements. While a direct causal link between parabens and cancer hasn't been concretely established by a large medical study, smaller studies have shown a relationship though the exact nature of it is undetermined. Parabens have routinely been shown to mimic estrogen which suggests potential reproductive problems and a possible link especially to female cancers since many are estrogen related. The possibility of this link is enough to make me swear off parabens. It hasn't concretely been shown that parabens cause cancer, but based on the evidence available, it seems highly likely that an undesirable relationship between the two exist. It is hypothesized that using parabens particularly in areas of the body where estrogenic cancers may develop may increase risks. Again, this isn't conclusive but I don't think it's worth the risk. I avoid all personal care products with parabens for this reason. Non-paraben products don't have as long of a shelf life, it's true, but I just buy in quantities I know I'm likely to use before they expire and replace them routinely. It just seems unnecessarily risky to put estrogen-mimicking chemicals that may be linked to cancers, especially female cancers, in my vagina near my cervix, ovaries, uterus, cancers of which are all already uncomfortable common. Likewise, I've switched to paraben free deodorants, body washes, shampoos, toothpaste and lotions. I don't have sex with men but adding estrogen-mimicking chemicals to the genitals of men seems like it may have potentially negative side effects as well. The possibility supported by evidence, even if it's inconclusive, is just too risky for me. If it turns out that there is a link, the lack of conclusive evidence won't make me immune to the cancers.
The way I see it:
Possibly problematic, hormone mimicking, potentially cancer-causing chemicals on my skin or even inside my body VS. somewhat less convenient products with a shorter shelf life is kind of a no brainer.