Phthalates are a group of chemicals used widely in everyday products from household cleaners, fragrances and pharmaceuticals to food packaging, utensils and personal care products.
With documented links to cancer, neurodevelopmental issues, autism spectrum disorders, altered reproductive development and male fertility issues, the ubiquitous nature of phthalates is a key cause for concern amongst researchers, governments and consumers worldwide.
Women in particular have been found to have higher rates of phthalates in system given the amount of personal care and cosmetic products they use, such as nail polish, hair sprays, aftershave lotions, soaps, shampoos, perfumes and other fragrance preparations.
According to the US food and drug administration, the main type of phthalates used in cosmetics diethyl phthalate (DEP) is the main type of phthalate used in cosmetics, with others used less commonly as plasticisers in nail polish and in products such as hairspray to create stiffness.
Pregnant women and children are warned to avoid exposure to phthalates as research shows they are the most at risk for phthalates’ negative health impacts.
As a result, some countries have banned the use of certain phthalate in products such as children’s toys.
Unfortunately given our reliance on plastics, plasticisers and stabilisers for our everyday products it is virtually impossible to avoid phthalates altogether. We can however make informed decisions about the types of products we use to reduce our exposure and lessen the risk of negative health effects.
You can be sure that Bee Loved never uses phthalates in its skincare preparations, just natural ingredients that enrich your skin and body. You can visit our free from skincare store here to shop our products and learn more about our lovely ingredients.