Babies at risk from Chemicals in Cosmetics
Wednesday, February 13, 2008 at 07:24AM Remember Project Is It In Us? The biomonitoring study that tested people from around the country for 20 toxic substances in three classes of chemicals: phthalates, bisphenol A, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs. Well a new study, published recently in the medical journal Pediatrics, focuses on the presence of these hormone-altering chemicals in infants and the results are not good.
The LA Times reported that:
Babies exposed to lotion, shampoo and powder had more than four times the level of phthalates in their urine as those whose parents had not used the products. Previous research found that the substances altered the children’s hormones.
How can you reduce your exposure and your child’s? Well unfortunately manufacturers are not required to list phthalates on personal care product labels. However, you can reduce your exposure from other sources…
Phthalates are used to soften plastics, like PVC, and have been linked to reproductive disorders and shown to cause liver, kidney and lung damage in laboratory animal studies. Variations of phthalates are present in vinyl flooring, vinyl shower curtains, children’s toys, perfumes, nail polish, lotions, adhesives, paints and automobile interiors. A list of common phthalates and where they are found is here. You can reduce your exposure to phthalates with the tips below (from Pollution in People).
- Opt for wood windows and doors instead of vinyl.
- Avoid products packaged with the #3 recycling symbol.
- Choose cotton shower curtains with polyester or nylon liners.
- Opt for PVC-free toys. Toymakers that have pledged to stop using PVC include: Early Start, Little Tikes, Lego, Prime Time Playthings, Sassy, and Tiny Love.
- Buy plastic wrap and bags made from polyethylene. For food storage, use glass containers or plastic containers with recycling symbols other than 3.
Read the LA Times article Study finds high levels of chemicals in infants using baby cosmetics