Numerous countries worldwide are witnessing an increased prevalence of allergic diseases, such as bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, nasal allergies (pollinosis), and food allergies.

The experts have recently proposed a hygiene hypothesis from the perspective of exposure to antimicrobial agents and preservatives, such as parabens (CAS number, 94-13-3). However, it is still unclear whether parabens, the components of many daily consumer products such as cosmetics, shampoos, and personal care products, acting as preservatives and antimicrobial agents, induce or aggravate allergies. 

Therefore, a recent study examined the relationship between exposure to parabens and the prevalence of allergic diseases in Japanese children. This cross-sectional epidemiological study included 236 children aged 0–3 years who underwent health examinations. The study assessed individual exposure to parabens using urinary concentrations of parabens.

It found the prevalence of atopic dermatitis was significantly higher in children with high urinary concentrations of parabens than in those with low concentrations. This relationship stayed significant after adjusting for confounding factors, like age, sex, Kaup′s index, and passive smoking. 

These results of the population study suggest a relationship between atopic dermatitis and exposure to parabens. It also warrants a longitudinal study using a larger sample number and a detailed examination of atopic dermatitis, including EASI scores and exposure to parabens.

Arafune J, Tsujiguchi H, Hara A., et al. Increased Prevalence of Atopic Dermatitis in Children Aged 0-3 Years Highly Exposed to Parabens. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Nov 6;18(21):11657. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182111657. PMID: 34770171; PMCID: PMC8583381.