Women's Health Project: Chemicals in Household Products and Cosmetics

Women's Health Project: Fact Sheets

Chemicals in Household Products and Cosmetics

Phthalates (tha-lates) are a family of chemicals, often used as plastic softeners or solvents, found in many household products and cosmetics. Scientists studying the effects of phthalates on animals have linked the chemicals to birth defects and infertility.

Women between the age of 20 to 40 tend to have higher levels of dibutyl-phthalates in their bodies. Research indicates that cosmetics and other personal care products cause these high levels. Women who work in the health care, hair care and cosmetics industries are at greater risk for phthalate exposure.
Phthalates are found in many cosmetics and personal care products that we use on a daily basis including deodorant/anti-perspirant, fragrance, hair spray, hair gel, hand and body lotion, hair mousse and nail polish.
Phthalates may contribute to declining sperm count, hypospadias (deformity of the penis), undescended testicles, testicular cancer, and DNA damage in the sperm of adult males.
Phthalates are not listed on the panel of ingredients of any product. Furthermore, the FDA does not consider these chemicals dangerous to humans. In Nov. 2002, the U.S. Cosmetics Ingredients Review panel said that phthalates are "safe as currently used." This ruling was vigorously contested by health advocates and environmentalists as a failure to protect consumers.
On Nov. 7, 2002, the European Commission voted to remove phthalates from cosmetics and personal care products. Unfortunately, loopholes in the ruling may still allow them to be used for some time. Five days later, the Body Shop International announced that it will phase out phthalates from all of its products. The statement was issued after product tests in Europe found phthalates in the company's deodorant.

Before you purchase your next jar of cream or bottle of shampoo, go to NotTooPretty.org and print a list of phthalate-free products. Then send a message to the FDA, the Cosmetics Ingredients Review Panel, and major manufacturers of beauty products.

All information provided by NotTooPretty.org.