As parents, safeguarding our children from harm is a natural instinct. However, the products we use to care for them may pose unexpected dangers. Unfortunately, this is the case with numerous cosmetics and body products marketed toward children in the United States. Recent research reveals that potentially toxic cosmetics and body products expose most children in the U.S.[1] This alarming revelation underscores the pressing need for enhanced regulation and safety standards within the cosmetics and personal care industry to ensure the health and well-being of our children.
Prevalence of Potentially Toxic Cosmetics and Body Products:
Numerous cosmetics and personal care items contain ingredients that may harm human health. Examples include phthalates, parabens, and triclosan, which have been linked to various health issues, including developmental and reproductive problems, cancer, and endocrine disruption.[2] Disturbingly, these ingredients are often found in products marketed specifically for children. In a study assessing the use of cosmetics and personal care products among children aged 0-17, over 50% of the products analyzed contained at least one potentially toxic ingredient.[1]
Impact on Children’s Health:
Exposure to potentially toxic ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products can significantly impact children’s health. Young children, in particular, are more vulnerable to the detrimental effects of these chemicals due to their developing bodies and brains. For instance, phthalates have been associated with developmental and reproductive issues, as well as asthma and allergies.[3] Parabens have been found to disrupt hormones in the body and have been linked to breast cancer.[4] Triclosan, a commonly used antibacterial agent, has been shown to contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and may have hormonal effects.[5]
Need for Increased Regulation and Safety Standards:
The absence of federal regulations in the United States requiring safety testing of cosmetics and personal care products before their sale poses a significant concern. While some ingredients are banned in certain countries, the U.S. has yet to take similar regulatory action.[6] To address this gap, advocacy groups call for more stringent regulations, such as those proposed in the Safe Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Act. This act would mandate safety testing, prohibit certain ingredients linked to health risks, and enhance labeling requirements.[7]
Tips for Choosing Safe Cosmetics and Body Products for Children:
As parents, there are steps you can take to protect your child from potentially harmful ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. Begin by reading product labels and identifying potentially toxic ingredients. Avoid products containing substances such as phthalates, parabens, and triclosan. Additionally, numerous natural and organic alternatives are available, including products that utilize essential oils and plant-based ingredients.
Moreover, parents can advocate for safer products by supporting companies prioritizing safety and sustainability. By purchasing products from such companies, consumers play a significant role in driving industry-wide change.
Conclusion:
The prevalence of potentially toxic cosmetics and personal care products marketed toward children poses a grave health risk that demands attention. These ingredients pose associations with various health problems, with young children being particularly vulnerable. The lack of regulation and safety standards within the cosmetics and personal care industry is concerning, necessitating consumer advocacy for increased regulation and safety standards to protect children’s health and well-being. By adopting safe product choices and supporting safety-focused companies, consumers can make a substantial impact in bringing about positive change within the industry.
References:
- Hammock, R., Woodruff, T. J., & Buckley, J. P. (2021). Alarming Findings: Most U.S. Children Use Potentially Toxic Cosmetic and Body Products.
- SciTechDaily. Retrievedfromhttps://scitechdaily.com/alarming-findings-most-u-s-children-use-potentially-toxic-cosmetic-and-body-products/
- Environmental Working Group. (n.d.). Ingredients of Concern. Retrieved fromhttps://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/
- Rudel, R. A., Fenton, S. E., Ackerman, J. M., Euling, S. Y., Makris, S. L., & Gray, J. L. (2011). Environmental Exposures and Mammary Gland Development: State of the Science, Public Health Implications, and Research Recommendations. Environmental Health Perspectives, 119(8), 1053-1061. doi: 10.1289/ehp.1002864
- Darbre, P. D., & Harvey, P. W. (2008). Paraben esters: Review of recent studies of endocrine toxicity, absorption, esterase and human exposure, and discussion of potential human health risks. Journal of Applied Toxicology, 28(5), 561-578. doi: 10.1002/jat.1358
- Aiello, A. E., Larson, E. L., & Levy, S. B. (2007). Consumer Antibacterial Soaps: Effective or Just Risky? Clinical Infectious Diseases, 45(Supplement_2), S137-S147. doi: 10.1086/519255
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Retrieved fromhttps://www.fda.gov/
- Safe Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Act of 2021, S.1022, 117th Cong. (2021).