A study from University of Washington suggests that baby shampoos, lotions and powders may expose infants to harmful chemicals. The chemicals, called phthalates, are found in many ordinary supplies, including cosmetic products, toys, vinyl flooring and medical supplies.
In the study, researchers found elevated phthalate levels in the urine of babies who’d recently used baby shampoos, powders or lotions. Past studies on animals suggest that the chemicals might be linked to possible reproductive problems in boys and early puberty in girls.
Though there hasn’t been much conclusive evidence about the specific effects of phthalates in humans, concerned parents can look for products labeled “phthalate-free.” They can also examine labels for such common phthalates as DEP and DEHP.
Phthalates, however, don’t always appear on product labels—because the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there’s insufficient evidence that they pose a safety risk to humans.
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