Page 243 - Cosmetology

those found in soy), also produce chemicals that mimic estrogen. It is possible that a weak plant estrogen
can help the body, but it can also be possible for a strong plant estrogen to make matters worse. For
example, there is research that shows coffee to be a problem for fibrocystic breast disease. The reason for
this is thought to be because coffee exerts estrogenic effects on breast cells
A study in the Journal of Applied Toxicology mentioned that “although recent reports of the oestrogenic
properties of parabens have challenged current concepts of their toxicity in these consumer products, the
question remains as to whether any of the parabens can accumulate intact in the body from the long-term,
low-dose levels to which humans are exposed.” The study discussed the fact that traces of parabens have
indeed been found in human breast tumors, but was quick to point out that it is unknown if this would be the
same in healthy breast tissue. Parabens present in tumors may not be the causative factor but rather a
result of parabens when cancer cells are present. See preservatives and Paula's article, Problems with
Preservatives?.

paraffin. Waxy, petroleum-based substance. Used as a thickener for cosmetics.

Paraffinum liquidum. See mineral oil.

Parietaria officinalis extract. Extract from a plant also known as pellitory. It can have antibacterial
properties for skin but also has strong allergic and irritant potential when applied topically.

parsley extract. Can have antioxidant properties, but whether it has that effect when applied topically on
skin is not known.

Parsol 1789. See avobenzone.

Passiflora edulis extract. See passion fruit extract.

passion fruit extract. There is no research showing this to have benefit for skin.

patchouli. Fragrant oil derived from mint. It contains eugenol and can be a skin sensitizer and irritant. See
counter-irritant.

Paullinia cupana. See guarana.

Paullinia cupana seed extract. Also called guarana, it is used primarily in herbal supplements and
beverages as a stimulant. In animal studies using mice, it has been shown to affect fat metabolism. There is
also research showing that repeated use of guarana can result in persistent increases in heart rate and
blood pressure as well as unfavorable actions on glucose and potassium homeostasis. Such effects could
be detrimental in persons with hypertension, atherosclerosis, or glucose intolerance—conditions that are
strongly associated with obesity. Guarana is sometimes used in cellulite products because of its theophylline
and caffeine components. Research has shown it can be absorbed into the skin. Whether or not topical
application can affect fat metabolism or have other associated health risks in humans is not known.

pawpaw extract. See papaya extract.

peanut oil. Emollient plant oil similar to all nonfragrant plant oils.

pecan oil. Emollient plant oil similar to all nonfragrant plant oils.

pectin. Natural substance found in plants, especially apples, and used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and
thickening agent.

PEG compound. PEG stands for polyethylene glycol. Various forms of PEG compounds are mixed with
fatty acids and fatty alcohols to create a variety of substances that have diverse functions in cosmetics,
including surfactants, binding agents (to keep ingredients blended), stabilizers, and emollients. See
polyethylene glycol.

PEG-100 Stearate. See PEG compound and thickening agent.

PEG-120 methyl glucose dioleate. See surfactant.

PEG-150 distearate. See thickening agent.