Health experts are warning consumers to avoid products containing phthalates, synthetic chemicals commonly used to make plastics flexible and to enhance fragrances, according to the National Center for Health Research.
Phthalates are classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, meaning they can interfere with hormone functions and potentially lead to serious health issues. However, avoiding these chemicals can be tricky, as they are often hidden in everyday products like shampoo, perfume, body lotion, and deodorants. Phthalates can even be found in toys and food packaging.
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Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are found in nail polish and vinyl products.
To help protect yourself, it’s important to learn how to spot these harmful chemicals. As the New York Post explains, different types of phthalates are used for various purposes. For instance, Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are used to make plastics more flexible and are commonly found in nail polishes and vinyl products. Unfortunately, these phthalates are far from harmless—both have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
One study conducted in 2022 found several genetic mutations in breast cancer tissue samples that were linked to phthalate exposure. These mutations affected genes that play a role in important biological processes related to cancer, such as hormone signaling and cell growth.
Furthermore, studies suggest that increased exposure to DBP could raise the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. DBP has been shown to interfere with the body’s insulin signaling process, making it harder for the body to respond to insulin properly. This disruption can lead to insulin resistance and glucose intolerance, which are key factors in the development and worsening of Type 2 diabetes. In simpler terms, DBP exposure may make it more difficult for the body to regulate blood sugar levels, potentially contributing to the onset or worsening of diabetes.
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Diethyl phthalate (DEP) is a chemical found in fragrances.
You should also steer clear from diethyl phthalate (DEP), a common chemical often found in popular fragrances. Research studies involving lab-grown cells, animals, and human data suggest that this particular phthalate can be harmful to women’s ovaries. Phthalates can mess with the natural growth process of eggs (called follicles), cause damage from harmful molecules (oxidative stress), and even lead to the death of these eggs.
Over time, this could result in infertility, a faster loss of eggs, and earlier onset of menopause (the end of a woman’s reproductive years). However, more studies are needed, using realistic levels of exposure, to fully understand the risks for women in real life.
Andrea Gore, a professor of toxicology at the University of Texas at Austin, told the Washington Post, that women should avoid products with fragrances all together.
“I recommend avoiding added fragrances altogether — in perfumes, scented lotions and shampoos, even scented detergents and antiperspirants.”
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Dr. Lora Shahine, a reproductive endocrinologist at Pacific Northwest Fertility (PNWF) in Seattle, told the New York Post, that spotting phthalates in household products can be challenging to identify because phthalates don’t always have to be listed on ingredient labels. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate cosmetic ingredients closely and only requires that products must be safe under normal conditions of use.
In fact, the FDA has given conflicting messages about phthalates. For example, in 2022, the FDA issued a report stating that there was no evidence that phthalates used in cosmetics are harmful. This lack of clear guidance makes it harder for consumers to make informed choices about products containing these chemicals.
“Companies using phthalates in products will say, ‘The poison is in the dose’ and ‘A little perfume can’t hurt you,’ but the issue is the accumulation of all phthalates and other endocrine disruptors like BPA, PFAS, and parabens in our daily exposure adds up,” Shahine explained.
“The average woman uses 12 beauty products a day (according to the Environmental Working Group), plus chemical exposure from laundry detergent, cleaning products, and more — no company is tracking the accumulation of exposure over time and the risk to the individual. We cannot eliminate exposure to endocrine disruptors but can limit the number of products (including perfume) to decrease risk.”
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How do you protect yourself from phthalates?
Avoiding products with phthalates can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to reduce your exposure. Start by checking ingredient labels for phthalates, which may appear under names like DEP, DBP, or DEHP, often hidden under the generic term “fragrance.” Opting for phthalate-free products is an easy way to ensure safety, as many brands now advertise this on their packaging, especially for baby products and personal care items.
Choosing natural or organic alternatives is another great option, as these often avoid synthetic chemicals, including phthalates. Also, go for fragrance-free or naturally scented products, which use essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances. When it comes to food and beverages, switching to glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic can help limit exposure, as phthalates are often found in plastic packaging. For children, look for phthalate-free toys made from safer materials like wood or natural rubber.
Additionally, opting for fresh or minimally packaged foods can reduce the risk of phthalates leaching from packaging. Research the brands you buy from to see if they offer phthalate-free lines, giving you more control over the products you use.
Lastly, apps like Think Dirty and Skin Deep are great tools to help you check for toxic chemicals, including phthalates, in your household products. These apps allow you to scan barcodes or search product names to see a detailed breakdown of the ingredients and their safety ratings. Think Dirty provides an easy-to-understand score that ranks products based on their potential toxicity, while Skin Deep, operated by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), offers a database of personal care items with information on their ingredients and associated health risks.
By being proactive and informed, you can significantly reduce your exposure to phthalates and make healthier choices for yourself and your family.
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