Phthalatesare primarly used as plasticizers, chemicals added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability and longevity. They are used in a wide variety of products including cosmetics and almost every brand of perfume.
Chemical Structure of Phthalates
A study in the Environmental Health Prospectivesjournal found a link between the amount of phthalate exposure and Attention Deficit Disorder. In layman’s terms, more phthalates = more behavioral problems.
Children exposed in the womb to chemicals in cosmetics and fragrances are more likely to develop behavioral problems commonly found in children with attention deficit disorders, according to a study of New York City school-age children published Thursday. Scientists at Mount Sinai School of Medicine reported that mothers who had high levels of phthalates during their pregnancies were more likely to have children with poorer scores in the areas of attention, aggression and conduct.
Where can you find phthalate free products?
According to Big Green Purse the following cosmetic companies sell phthalate free products:
Burt’s Bees– Lip balms, glosses, sticks and shimmers; face cleansers, toners, complexion bars, moisturizers, eye crèmes and exfoliating scrubs; shampoos and conditioners; toothpaste and peppermint breath drops; eye make-up and face powder; various “Baby Bee” products and a growing list of “Men’s Grooming” choices. Increasingly available in mainstream grocery stores, drugstores, and pharmacies.
Eco Bella Organics – Includes perfumes, bath and body products, cosmetics, and skin and hair care products. Often available in organic and natural foods stores and food co-ops.
Aubrey Organics – Products are made primarily with herbals, essential oils and vitamins. Includes baby care, bath products, hair care and color, hand and body lotions, makeup, skin care, soaps, toiletries, sun protection, and hair and skin essentials for men. Often available in organic and natural foods stores and food co-ops.
Tom’s of Maine – Offers 90 oral and body care products, sold at 40,000 retail outlets in the U.S. and around the world. Products include toothpaste, deodorant, mouthwash, soap, shaving cream, and dental floss.
Honeybee Gardens – In addition to a variety of lipsticks, powders, eyeliner, eye shadow, hair spray, shampoo, and conditioner, Honey Bee manufactures water-based nail polish, including one brand that can peel off without need of nail polish remover.
Phthalates are also present in toys and other plastic products.
Avoid PVC plastic. Unless made by a U.S. manufacturer who has indicated the product is phthalate-free, avoid soft plastic toys and soft vinyl products with a strong plastic smell such as plastic shower curtains. For information on PVC-free products for the home, office, and building materials, check out the resources available at: http://www.besafenet.com/pvc/documents/PVC-Guide-1.pdf.
Limit your and your children’s exposure to phthalates by considering the chemicals present in products you purchase.
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