New research discovered children may be exposed to hormone-disruptors from skin and hair products.
An endocrinologists explains the risks.
Concentrations of 16 different types of phthalatesa class of endocrine-disrupting chemicalswere found in the urine samples.
What does this mean for parents; should we all be worried?
And are there ways to protect children from phthalates?
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that help make plastic more pliable and flexible, says Dr. Rocco.
double board-certified family medicine physician specializing in regenerative and hormone health
But they can also be found in things like shampoos, lotions, ointments, and otherpersonal care products.
What do these chemicals do in the body?
They mimic, block, or interfere with hormones in the bodys endocrine system, per theEndocrine Society.
Additionally, childrens organs are more vulnerable to disruptions as they are still developing, says Dr. Rocco.
Should we be worried about these study findings?
Products labeled phthalate- or paraben-free are often more expensive.
double board-certified family medicine physician specializing in regenerative and hormone health
These findings underline a major need for change, which starts with stricter FDA regulations on endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
So what can we do to keep kids safe?
According to Dr. Rocco, taking small steps to reduce exposure on a regular basis is the key here.
Meaning, you dont have to toss every product in sight right away.
This isnt doom and gloom; this is just education to improve familys lives, she says.
For starters, Dr. Rocco recommends using fewer products on your children in general.
They dont necessarily need all the products advertised for kids, she adds.
Bloom, Michael S., et al.
Impact of skin care products on phthalates and phthalate replacements in children: The echo-fgs.Environmental Health Perspectives, vol.
9, Sept. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp13937.
EDC-2: The Endocrine Societys Second Scientific Statement on Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals.Endocrine reviewsvol.
36,6 (2015): E1-E150.
doi:10.1210/er.2015-1010
Helm, Jessica S., et al.
Measurement of endocrine disrupting and asthma-associated chemicals in hair products used by black women.Environmental Research, vol.
165, Aug. 2018, pp.
448458, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2018.03.030.
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