Phthalates in cosmetics: Hazardous to your health?

What are phthalates in cosmetics and beauty products? Are they dangerous to my health?

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Answer

Phthalates are chemicals used in hundreds of consumer products, from cosmetics and shampoos to vinyl flooring and food packaging. They are used to make materials soft and flexible, like nail polish (so it won't chip as easily) and hair spray (to avoid stiffness).

Some consumer groups claim that phthalates in consumer products pose a danger. But scientists are still unsure if phthalates pose any health risks. Some studies suggest phthalates may lower testosterone levels in men, which contributes to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Other studies suggest a link between delayed sexual development in boys and girls and exposure to phthalates. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined there is still not sufficient proof that phthalates in consumer products are dangerous enough to require regulation.

How can you tell if the cosmetics or beauty products you use contain phthalates? Cosmetics are required to list all of their ingredients on the product labels. So check the product labels on your cosmetics. But other products, such as perfume, are not required to do this. You can contact the manufacturer, if you have questions about the phthalate content in a specific product. There are Web sites that claim to provide lists of products that contain phthalates, but the accuracy of such Web sites isn't known.