A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that children who used certain personal care products had significantly higher levels of phthalates in their urine.
Phthalates are of particular concern because of their potential effects on brain development, behavior, and early puberty.
Key Findings from Recent Research
This is not the first time a study has found a link between personal care products and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates. There is a growing body of research showing how products like soaps, lotions, hair conditioners may expose children to harmful EDCs during crucial developmental periods.
One of the main reasons phthalates are used in personal care products is to make the scent last longer.
Unfortunately, phthalates will not be listed on ingredient labels, but instead be ‘hidden’ under the word “fragrance” or “parfum.”
Here are some the major findings from recent research:
- Children who used certain products had higher phthalate levels: In a study of 630 children aged 4-8, researchers found that recent use of personal care products like lotions and oils was linked to higher levels of phthalates in the children’s urine. For example, the use of lotions was associated with a 1.17-fold increase in mono-benzyl phthalate, while oils were linked to even greater increases in specific types of phthalates like monoethyl phthalate (MEP) and monobutyl phthalate (MBP).
- Differences in exposure based on race and ethnicity: The study also found that children from different racial and ethnic backgrounds experienced varying levels of exposure. For instance, Hispanic, Asian, and Pacific Islander children who used hair oils had higher levels of phthalates compared to their white and Black peers. Black children, in general, had the highest levels of phthalates in their urine.
How Can Phthalates Affect Health?
Phthalates are classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can mimic or block natural hormones in the body, including estrogen and testosterone.
This is particularly concerning during childhood, a time when the body is still developing and hormonal balance is crucial for normal growth. Disruptions to this balance can lead to various developmental issues and other health concerns, such as:
- Brain development: Phthalates have also been associated with impaired brain development and behavioral problems, including reduced cognitive abilities and increased hyperactivity.
- Reproductive health: Long-term exposure to phthalates may lead to reproductive issues later in life, particularly affecting fertility. Specific effects on males include decreased testosterone levels and sperm concentrations in men and genital abnormalities in baby boys.
- Early puberty: One of the major concerns linked to phthalates is their potential to trigger early puberty. Previous studies have suggested that exposure to EDCs like phthalates may contribute to girls experiencing their first menstrual period earlier than normal. Early puberty is associated with health effects later in life, such as increased breast cancer risk.
- Cancer: A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute linked phthalates to a higher incidence of certain childhood cancers.
- Respiratory issues such as asthma: Children born to mothers exposed to phthalates during pregnancy had a 72-78% increase in risk of developing asthma between age 5 and 11 compared with children of mothers with lower levels of exposure.
What Can You Do?
Parents and caregivers might feel overwhelmed when trying to protect their children from exposure to phthalates and other harmful chemicals. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to minimize your child’s exposure:
- Check product labels: As I mentioned, phthalates will not be listed on ingredient labels. But one think you can do is look for brands that are explicitly “phthalate-free.” This may not guarantee the product is free from all potential toxicants, but it’s definitely better than nothing.
- Reduce the use of unnecessary products: Avoid overusing personal care products on children. Just use what’s actually necessary.
- Go fragrance-free: Phthalates are often used as carriers for synthetic fragrances. Check the ingredient list to make sure there is no “fragrance” or “parfum” listed.
- Shop from non-toxic brands: Choose brands that prioritize ingredient transparency and do not include EDCs in their formulations. Here is my list of recommendations for non-toxic skincare for tweens.
- Advocate for regulatory changes: While individual efforts can absolutely help reduce exposure, I personally believe the responsibility shouldn’t fall solely on parents. Regulatory agencies like the FDA and EPA need to take a more active role in limiting the use of phthalates in children’s personal care products.
