The Scoop on Baby Products and Possible Toxins
You may not have known exactly how to pronounce it, but chemicals called phthalates ("thah-lates") have sparked concerned conversations among many moms and dads of young tots in recent years. Parents and scientists alike wonder whether and how kids might be affected by exposure to these modern manmade chemicals — used in everything from cosmetics to household products, from toys to pacifiers, from PVC pipes to plastic food containers.
Now, a new study suggests that some common baby products many parents regularly use — and trust as safe — could contain these chemicals that may be toxic to infants' developing endocrine and reproductive systems.
Researchers tested the urine of 163 babies (2 to 28 months old) to find out how much, if any, phthalates infants may be absorbing through their skin from common baby products. What their research revealed: All of the babies had at least one type of phthalate in their urine at "measurable levels," and 80% had "measurable amounts" of at least seven types of phthalates (which are used to produce fragrances and soften plastics and rubber).
Using baby lotions, shampoos, and powder within the past 24 hours significantly upped infants' levels of certain phthalates — especially in babies under 8 months old, who are at increased risk because their body systems are still developing. And youngsters whose moms said they used baby products more often also had higher levels.
The researchers acknowledge that children may be exposed to phthalates from a wide variety of sources. And although they say absorbing the chemicals through the skin could be "a major route of exposure," the scientists point out that babies and toddlers also could come into contact with phthalates through the air and dust they breathe (as they crawl around on the floor) and by what they put in their mouths (from food products that could leach the chemicals, to toys and teethers they might suck or chew on).
However, the researchers found that some things did not seem to have much effect on babies' phthalate levels: diaper creams, baby wipes, and how often babies used plastic toys and pacifiers that could contain phthalates.
What This Means to You
Although it's unclear whether or how the phthalates in the products used in this study are causing harm, parents may want to avoid using baby care products until scientists can say, for sure, that they are safe.
The fact remains that limited studies have been done on the effects of phthalates on young children. That's why the researchers in this study admit that they don't know if or how, exactly, childhood exposure to phthalates affects development later.
What previous studies have suggested is that phthalates may:
- be toxic to the development of the reproductive organs of animals — and possibly male fetuses
- affect grown men's reproductive function
- change hormone levels in unborn and breastfed babies
So, some health officials are taking measures to limit young children's exposure to phthalates. For instance, the European Union banned the use of six phthalate softeners used to make certain toys and child-care products that babies and young kids might put in their mouths. And California is banning phthalates used in the same kinds of kid-used items.
But what's a puzzled parent to do when shopping in the baby aisles at the grocery store or pharmacy? Unfortunately, you can't just pick up a product to find out if it contains phthalates by looking at the label — manufacturers in the United States aren't required to disclose phthalate contents on product packaging.
Still, here are some ways to reduce exposure to these and some other potentially toxic chemicals in your home:
- Limit the use of lotions and powders with babies and young children — only use them when the doctor says it's necessary.
- Try to choose products that are "phthalate-free" (although the study points out that "the safety of these alternatives has yet to be established").
- Skip the fancy-smelling stuff. Buy unscented (or "fragrance-free") items instead, especially for infants.
- Don't bathe your baby every day — two or three times a week will suffice (bathing more often can dry infants' skin). And mild soap, mild shampoo, and water will do the trick.
- Try to use glass and/or stainless steel instead of plastic food containers and plastic kids' cups. You can opt for tempered glass, which won't break as easily.
If you have questions or concerns about any products you're using (or have used) at home, talk to your doctor for advice and recommendations on how to get more info.
Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: February 2008
Source: "Baby Care Products: Possible Sources of Infant Phthalate Exposure," Pediatrics, February 2008.
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