Phthalates: What’s the Danger?
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Q: We read a lot about the dangers of phthalates. What’s wrong about them? Is there one single reason why should we avoid them?
Michelle Z, 31, Toronto
A: Simply put, phthalates are known as endocrine disruptors that put you in higher risk for breast cancer and other hormone-related diseases. Here’s why. Phthalates, also known as esters of phthalic acid, are derived from naphtalene. These ingredients are found in most conventional nail polishes, hair styling products, and fragrances. Phthalates are also found in soft plastic baby toys, jelly sex toys, electric isolation, and most recently, in cords and earphones of popular MP3 players.
Toxic as hell, phthalates act slowly but steadily by poisoning our endocrine system and liver. Phthalates are linked to birth defects, allergies, and testicular abnormalities in babies.
What’s worse, many phthalates are simply not listed on product labels, since they are part of synthetic fragrances. As such, they are frequently found in baby care products, such as baby lotions, washes, and wipes. Other most phthalate-contaminated products include nail polishes, hair sprays, and heady, sexy conventional perfumes.
Watch out for di (n-butyl) phthalate (DBP) or its metabolite monobutyl phthalate (MBP) in ingredients lists. Today, many nail polishes are phthalate-free.
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