Triclosan, phthalates and paraben studies in 2008

Triclosan, phthalates and parabens in 2008
Safety of a number of cosmetic ingredients such as phthalates, parabens and triclosan has come into question. More research into, and tighter regulations for these ingredients have come from pressure groups, environmental charities and most recently from the National Research Council.

Phthalates
The use of a number of members of this family as plasticizers and perfume fixatives has attracted criticism this year. Researchers at the University of Washington suggested there was a link between the presence of the phthalates MEP, MMP and MiBP in the urine of infants and the use of baby care products, as well as the effect of phthalates on the environment.

The ingredients are found in a wide range of products, from cosmetics to building materials, the NRC has advised the EPA to look into the effects of widespread exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency announced it would be expanding its fish tissues pilot study in order to determine the effects of both personal care and pharmaceutical products on the waterways.

Parabens
Parabens are used as preservatives, and are heavily criticized in Europe. A campaign from a French health association focusing on baby cosmetics led to calls from the health minister for further research and labelling certain products as unsafe for pregnant women and young children.

Triclosan
Lobby groups claimed scientific studies have linked this antimicrobial ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products to endocrine system disruption, and cancer in addition to noting its ability to persist in aquatic environments.

Industry supporters claim there is no conclusive evidence to suggest it is harmful to humans, stressing its value in protecting against potentially pathogenic organisms.