Ananda Mahony
NaomiPhthalate exposure from cosmetics
February 1st 2008 23:56
Link: www.vitalenatural.com.au
In this day and age, women are the highest users of cosmetics and topical skin care agents. Unfortunately this also puts them in the higher risk category for butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) exposure. Phthalates are a group of synthetic chemicals that are used in the production of various substances such as plastics and other consumer products including beauty products and cosmetics.
While it was suspected that BBP was absorbed through the skin, until recently it wasn’t proved conclusively. Research published this year showed that without a doubt this substance is absorbed, metabolised and excreted in significant quantities after exposure. The same study also looked a parabens and similar results were found.
Why is BBP absorption significant? BBP can interfere with reproductive tissues in both men and women leading to issues such as infertility and birth defects. Specifically BBP targets the testes in men and breast tissue in women.
Not all phthalates are metabolised and eliminated, some accumulating in fatty tissues, notably breast tissue. This gives rise to the theory that phthalate accumulation may also be linked with breast cancer.
Most significantly phthalates are found in synthetic fragrances (also called Parfum). Interestingly, synthetic fragrances are also the most common cause of adverse skin reactions. For these two reasons alone, it is advisable to avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances.
Research available upon request
Ananda Mahony ND is a naturopath and holistic skin specialist. Her practice focuses on the treatment of skin conditions. Ananda also owns Vitale Natural Skin & Body Care, a natural & organic skin care store in Paddington. www.vitalenatural.com.au
While it was suspected that BBP was absorbed through the skin, until recently it wasn’t proved conclusively. Research published this year showed that without a doubt this substance is absorbed, metabolised and excreted in significant quantities after exposure. The same study also looked a parabens and similar results were found.
Why is BBP absorption significant? BBP can interfere with reproductive tissues in both men and women leading to issues such as infertility and birth defects. Specifically BBP targets the testes in men and breast tissue in women.
Not all phthalates are metabolised and eliminated, some accumulating in fatty tissues, notably breast tissue. This gives rise to the theory that phthalate accumulation may also be linked with breast cancer.
Most significantly phthalates are found in synthetic fragrances (also called Parfum). Interestingly, synthetic fragrances are also the most common cause of adverse skin reactions. For these two reasons alone, it is advisable to avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances.
Research available upon request
Ananda Mahony ND is a naturopath and holistic skin specialist. Her practice focuses on the treatment of skin conditions. Ananda also owns Vitale Natural Skin & Body Care, a natural & organic skin care store in Paddington. www.vitalenatural.com.au
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