Pthalates in Baby Care Products
The University of Washington recently published a study in the February issue of the journal Pediatrics, suggesting that babies are exposed to a potentially harmful level of phthalates from baby care products. While they are found in many items we use and consume every day, our children are much more susceptible to them through higher levels of exposure, which includes exposure via baby lotions, powders, and shampoos. The study shows that the amount of phthalates found in the babies tested increased when all three were used and was also greater in those under 8 months.
Why is this important? New evidence is emerging all the time about the harmful effects of phthalates, especially on young children, and especially on boys. Studies are showing that exposure to pthalates can adversely affect human male reproductive function and abnormal reproductive hormone levels, particularly if the exposure begins early. Phthalates are also typically hidden ingredients in artificial fragrances, so label reading doesn’t always help.
The skin care products for mamas and babies that we carry at Clementine NW do not contain phthalates. Earth Mama Angel Baby, Little Twig, and Mama Mio are great companies that strive to make sure that everything you put on your (and your own) little one’s body is only going to nourish his delicate skin, not harm in any way.
It is interesting to me that a very similar article published in June of 2003. It took nearly five years for it to become media worthy! It only proves that we have to be our children’s best advocates. We can’t take for granted that large corporations are always looking out for our baby’s safety and well-being. Do your research and shop wisely!