What Are Phthalates?
Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are clingy chemicals that make plastics flexible and harder to break. But do you know they are also there in your skincare products. Surprise!
Wondering why?
- Stabilizing Fragrance**: Phthalates, especially DEP, are like that person who makes sure everyone smells the same all night. They keep your perfume’s scent lingering longer than it should. Sounds Great isn’t?
- Enhancing Texture**: They smooth out your creams and lotions. Without Phthalates, your skincare might feel like spreading peanut butter on toast. That would be yuck.
- Flexibility and Durability**: In nail polishes and hair sprays, Phthalates prevent cracking, like a beauty bouncer ensuring no mishaps. Lifesavers they are…
So why are we talking about these super heros today. Because they have a DARK side to them…
- Endocrine Disruption**: They mess with your hormones like an uninvited guest who changes the music at your party. You won’t like that would you?
- Reproductive Health Issues**: Linked to reduced fertility and developmental issues in fetuses.
- Allergic Reactions**: They can cause skin irritations. Your skin’s way of saying, “Get out!”
- Asthma and Respiratory Issues**: Particularly in kids, Phthalates increase the risk of asthma. As if air pollution was less.
- Cancer**: Some studies suggest Phthalates might be linked to cancer. What to say now
The bigger question is – How to find them and stop them from entering your life
AS ALWAYS – READ THE LABEL
- Look for the claim “phthalate-free”
- Check the ingredient list for DBP, DMP, and DEP also known as Dibutyl Phthalate, Dimethyl Phthalate, Diethyl Phthalate
- Avoid products with “fragrance” or “parfum” unless it says Phthalates Free
- Trust labels from EWG or USDA Organic
So, next time you grab your skincare products, check if Phthalates are trying to sneak in. Show this uninvited guest the door and enjoy a Phthalate-free life. Cheers to keeping the party clean and safe!
