September 9th, 2024

Hair and skin care products expose kids to hormone disrupting chemicals

A study found a connection between personal care products and elevated phthalate levels in children aged 4 to 8, with varying exposure among racial groups, prompting calls for regulatory scrutiny.

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Hair and skin care products expose kids to hormone disrupting chemicals

A recent study has found a link between the use of personal care products, such as lotions and hair oils, and elevated levels of phthalates—hormone-disrupting chemicals—in children aged 4 to 8. Phthalates, commonly used in plastics and some cosmetics, can interfere with hormonal functions and are associated with various health issues, including impaired brain development and behavioral problems. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, analyzed urine samples from 630 children and noted that different racial and ethnic groups exhibited varying levels of exposure. For instance, Hispanic and Asian children showed higher phthalate levels linked to hair oil use, while white children had associations with body lotion. Black children had the highest overall phthalate levels. Experts emphasize the need for increased scrutiny of personal care products, as many marketed to communities of color contain high levels of these chemicals. The findings highlight the importance of understanding exposure risks in vulnerable populations, particularly as social media drives a growing interest in skincare among younger demographics. Researchers call for regulatory bodies like the FDA and EPA to take action regarding the safety of these chemicals in consumer products.

- Recent study links personal care products to higher phthalate levels in children.

- Phthalates are associated with health issues, including developmental problems.

- Exposure levels vary by race and ethnicity, with Black children showing the highest levels.

- Experts urge regulatory scrutiny of personal care products containing phthalates.

- Increased awareness is needed as skincare trends rise among tweens and teens.

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Link Icon 1 comments
By @01HNNWZ0MV43FF - 2 months
> phthalates in the environment may be contributing to girls getting their first menstrual period at an earlier age.

Scary stuff

> She had her teens download a free app called YUKA.

Submarine article? No tracking on the link to it, though.