Buzzword of the day: Paraben-free

One of the latest buzzwords in cosmetics and personal care products is "paraben-free." 

But what the heck is a paraben and why should we care? It turns out that parabens are used as preservatives and there is some suspicion that some of them might pose a cancer risk.

It's all a little murky. But writer Alene Dawson noticed the trend toward products labeled paraben-free and has written a primer on it that you can read here. 

-- Susan Denley

Photo: Josie Maran Earth Day Argan Essentials Kit ($48) is paraben-free. Credit: Josiemarancosmetics.com