Hair and Skincare Could be Causing Hormone Disruption in Children, Study Finds

A new study reveals a shocking connection between beauty care products and higher levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals called phthalates in young children aged 4 to 8. The study found that the use of phthalate-containing products like lotions and hair oils is dangerous for pregnant women, but the window for hormone disruption now appears to be more significant, with key developmental processes potentially impacted.

What are Phthalates?

Phthalates are a chemical compound developed to make plastics more durable. According to the FDA, the main phthalates used in cosmetic products are dibutyl phthalate (DBP), dimethyl phthalate (DMP), and diethyl phthalate (DEP). These phthalates are primarily used at concentrations of less than 10 percent, often appearing as plasticizers in nail polishes and hairsprays. However, they can appear in a wide range of care products, including packaging and delivery.

Are Phthalates a Cause for Concern?

For years, we’ve been aware of these chemicals’ potential impact on pregnant women and developing babies. Phthalates can be absorbed through the skin and can damage many organs, as well as affect the endocrine system. This is why pregnant women are already discouraged from using products with phthalates. The study suggests that we should extend this recommendation to young children.

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Phthalates don’t last long inside our bodies, but chronic exposure presents more of an issue. The evidence that phthalates cause hormone disruption is not concrete, but it is growing. This is why researchers have great concern, especially among these very young children whose brains are still very actively developing.

How Does Race Factor in?

The study found that levels of phthalates varied by race. Overall, Black children had the highest levels of phthalates. Higher levels in Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and Asian children were associated with using hair oils. On the other hand, body lotion appeared to be the most significant culprit in white children with higher phthalate levels. This study couldn’t determine why those differences existed but notes that the results can inform future studies to disentangle components of structural racism as a mechanism that is likely to drive differences.

Keeping Kids Healthy

So, what’s the takeaway? Phthalates are in many places in our environment, and there is reasonable cause for concern. There is a growing consensus that these chemicals impact our development. And when they show up in our beauty and care products, they can be absorbed into our skin. Pregnant women are already discouraged from using products with phthalates. This study suggests that we should extend that recommendation to young children.

Thankfully, many personal care products advertise when they’re phthalate-free. We recommend using methods like YUKA (a free app) and Beautypedia to check the ingredients on any product.

Conclusion

Phthalates are a significant concern for children’s health, particularly when it comes to beauty and care products. As researchers, we must continue to investigate the impact of these chemicals on our development and work to develop safer alternatives. As consumers, we must be aware of the ingredients in our products and make informed choices about what we put on our skin and in our bodies.

FAQs

Q: What are phthalates?

A: Phthalates are a chemical compound developed to make plastics more durable. They are primarily used in cosmetic products like nail polishes and hairsprays.

Q: Are phthalates harmful?

A: Yes, phthalates have been linked to hormone disruption and can damage many organs, as well as affect the endocrine system.

Q: Why are pregnant women discouraged from using products with phthalates?

A: Because phthalates can be absorbed through the skin and can damage many organs, as well as affect the endocrine system, pregnant women are discouraged from using products with phthalates.

Q: Can I avoid phthalates in my products?

A: Yes, many personal care products advertise when they’re phthalate-free. We recommend using methods like YUKA (a free app) and Beautypedia to check the ingredients on any product.

Q: What can I do to reduce my exposure to phthalates?

A: To reduce your exposure to phthalates, avoid using products with phthalates, check the ingredients of any product before using it, and choose products that are labeled as phthalate-free.