Paraben-free, what’s the big deal, right? We’ve been using this stuff for years, so why make the change? Let’s start with some hard-hitting facts first. There has been increasing evidence that certain ingredients in personal care products are linked to a range of health concerns, ranging from reproductive issues, such as fertility problems and miscarriage, to cancer.

Parabens and phthalates have been found to be endocrine disruptors directly linking to increased risks of breast cancer. In a recent study led by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, studies revealed how a short break from certain shampoos and lotions that were made with chemical ingredients can result in a significant drop in levels of people’s hormone-disrupting chemicals. And we know how much our African American community loves our beauty and haircare products. So, can we make the switch too?

The answer is yes, and we can make them too. Check out these 4 Emerging Paraben-Free Beauty Brands By Black Women Should Know About:

Laws of Nature Cosmetics

Looking for a good foundation that fits your budget, health-conscious lifestyle, and skin tone? Laws of Nature was founded by Jasmine Rose in 2007 after her mother was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. After experimenting with recipes in her own kitchen, she created an entire brand utilizing natural ingredients that were plant-based, antioxidant-rich, paraben-free, silicone-free, and alcohol-free. See her full line at www.lawsofnaturecosmetics.com.

Pnk Digger Cosmetics

Founded by makeup artist, Stephanie Bennett, in 2014, this cosmetic line features bold colors that are confident and unique. Each product is paraben-free as well as petroleum-free, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and 100% vegan. Take a look at the rest of her line at www.pnkdigger.com.

Bloomsbury Sq

A luxury line of purely vegan and organic skincare products, Bloomsbury Sq serves as a diverse and affordable natural beauty haven. Featuring facial cleanses, body mists, and body balms, this line gives a lavish aura to simple ingredients. Browse their latest at www.bloomsburysq.com.

Pear Nova

Designed in Chicago, this rich lacquer line features nude polishes of every shade for women of color. With a sleek and innovative approach, Pear Nova is cruelty-free, vegan-friendly and 5 free, which means no formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, toluene, and dibutyl Phthalate DBP. Check out the full line at www.pearnova.com.

Mielle Organics

Some may have heard of Mielle but a lot have yet to discover the newbie to the natural hair community. Launched in 2014, the line uses naturally enriching ingredients like ginger, honey, avocado, babassu oil, mint, white peony, almonds, mongongo oil, and sacha inchi oil to fuel their completely organic line. Find out what stores they’re in at www.mielleorganics.com.

I’m not sure about you, but I can’t wait to see these products in all stores!