We live in an era dominated by chemicals, with chemical pollutants present in the air, water, food, in the cleaning products we use at home, in the polyester clothing we wear, and in the personal care products we apply. The skin, being the body’s outermost sheath, is constantly in contact with the environment. It is porous and allows the substances we apply to be absorbed into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Many such chemicals which get absorbed by the skin are ‘endocrine disruptors’, which create hormonal havoc in our body. This raises alarm for the unwanted chemicals in
baby skincare
and lotions that most parents use to keep their child’s skin healthy and protected. But are they really safe for your children?
What does the study say about use of lotion for kids
The latest study by the Environmental Health Perspectives Journal, found that children who use more personal care products like sunscreen and lotions have high levels of hormone-disrupting toxin called Phthalates, which are plasticizers, in their body. Phthalates are present in plastic containers as well as in the products and can act as endocrine disruptors and alter hormone production in children between the ages of four-to-eight years. The findings are concerning and calls for better clarity and regulation of such toxins which are hiding in plain sight. The study does not talk about the Parabens and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the products; Octinoxate and Avobenzone in the sunscreens all of which can also cause issues when absorbed in the body.
According to Dr. Smriti Naswa Singh, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist, fortis hospital, Mulund, “The findings of this study are particularly alarming given that prepubertal children and teenagers are in a crucial stage of development, during which their secondary sexual organs are maturing, and their skin is especially susceptible to absorbing these chemicals. These Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) can lead to a range of issues, including ADHD, weakened immune function, increased risk of Diabetes, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), infertility, premature breast development in girls, abnormal breast development in boys, hormonal imbalances, and Cancer. Children who use more products like sunscreens, moisturizing lotions, leave on conditioners, and serums for their hair are more prone to such damage. The study also found that cheaper products with sub-standard packaging had more Phthalates.”
According to Dr. Gunjan Verma, Consultant Dermatologist, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, “There is a need for improved global standards and regulations because toys are also made of plastic, and food and even water arrive in plastic packaging, increasing the risk of exposure for children. This may force businesses to consider the health of our children.”
How to prevent hormone disruption from lotions
To avoid unnecessary exposure to EDCs from lotions, keep the following tips in mind.
- Use cotton and linen and natural fabric clothing. (Kids in active sports can choose dry fit bamboo fabric); Polyester should not be worn.
- Use steel, glass or copper bottles or earthenware pots to store and drink water instead of plastic bottles.
- Use steel, glass, ceramic plates and tiffin boxes for kids and adults.
- Store groceries in steel or glass containers and not in plastic.
- Use utensils made of iron, steel, ceramic or earthenware to cook food.
- Substitute lotions with Coconut oil and Aloe Vera. However, consult your Dermatologist for specific skin conditions Atopic Dermatitis, dry skin, Psoriasis etc. where thicker moisturizing agents may be needed.
I’m Manas Ranjan Sahoo: Founder of “Webtirety Software”. I’m a Full-time Software Professional and an aspiring entrepreneur, dedicated to growing this platform as large as possible. I love to Write Blogs on Software, Mobile applications, Web Technology, eCommerce, SEO, and about My experience with Life.
