Baby lotions and shampoos could expose babies to dangerous parabens

A new study has revealed that through personal care products (PCPs) such as lotions and shampoos, infants and toddlers are likely becoming exposed to potentially harmful substances, called parabens, a

By: Agencies | | Published: December 13, 2013 12:30 pm

Tags: Baby lotion Baby oil Children's health In the news Infants Toddlers

A new study has revealed that through personal care products (PCPs) such as lotions and shampoos, infants and toddlers are likely becoming exposed to potentially harmful substances, called parabens, at an even higher level than adult women.

Related Stories

Kurunthachalam Kannan and Ying Guo point out that the substances called phthalates and parabens are used in a wide range of products, from medical devices to children’s toys, as well as PCPs. Phthalates hold in moisture; parabens are used as preservatives.

Research suggests a link between these substances and health issues in animals and people, such as sperm damage, breast cancer and an increased risk for asthma. (Read: 5,500 British babies born addicted to drugs!)

In previous studies, Kannan’s team found that food and indoor dust contributed to phthalate exposure to varying degrees, but paraben exposure was low. Now it was time for them to look at a third route of possible exposure the use of PCPs.

They collected 170 samples of makeup, lotions, shampoos and other products, including 20 items for babies, and tested them for nine phthalates and six parabens. Both substances were found in PCPs. (Read: Massaging your baby: Not the best idea say doctors!)

In baby products, phthalate concentrations were low, but parabens were common. When the researchers calculated possible exposure levels, they estimated that the potential daily skin exposure to parabens by infants and toddlers could be as much as two to three times higher than that for adult women.

India.com health tip: Always read the labels before buying products for your baby. If they contain anything which contains the word parabens or phthalate, they are better avoided. You might assume that ‘herbal’ products may not contain these harmful chemicals. But do read the labels in such cases too. Look for brands which have the words ‘Paraben-free’ written on them.

The study is published in the ACS journal Environmental Science and Technology.

Source: ANI

For more articles, visit our Diseases and Conditions Section and for videos check out our YouTube Channel. Don’t miss out on the latest updates. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus.

Published : December 13, 2013 12:30 pm

Read Disclaimer

Your heart can soon be repaired by biomaterials

Your heart can soon be repaired by biomaterials

This research could revolutionize treatment for scars, anti-ageing and hair loss!

This research could revolutionize treatment for scars, anti-ageing and hair loss!

About The health Site

TheHealthSite.com is India's largest health site with more than 40 lakh unique visitors per month. We focus on fitness, beauty, health, pregnancy and more.

Most popular health and wellness website in India in 2012 at the Website of the year awards.

health@corp.india.com

+91 – 22 – 6697 1234

91 – 22 – 2490 0302.

ZEE ENTERTAINMENT ENTERPRISES LTD, 18th floor, A-Wing, Marathon Futurex, N. M. Joshi Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013.

We respect your privacy

Copyright © 2020 Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited. All rights reserved.