Cosmetics May Harm Teenage Girls, Study Says

September 24, 2008: 04:24 PM EST

The Environmental Working Group says it has data indicating that hormone-disrupting chemicals are finding their way from cosmetics into teenage girls. Tests of the blood and urine of 20 teenagers revealed 16 chemicals that may disrupt hormone levels. The girls in the sample used an average of more than 16 products per day. The EWG said the chemicals identified, which include phthalates, triclosan and musks, are associated with cosmetics and body care products. They mimic hormones and may cause effects at very low levels. Teenage girls are going through rapid development so their long-term health, particularly their reproductive health, could be at risk, according to EWG. It says it is “notoriously difficult” to find cosmetics that are free from suspect ingredients and that labels are often misleading. The Personal Care Products Council has attacked the study, saying the EWG chose to publish data that supports its agenda rather than provide a full picture of the scientific research. It says that companies are required by law to substantiate the safety of all products and ingredients before they are marketed.

Rebecca Sutton, "Teen Girls' Body Burden of Hormone-Altering Cosmetics Chemicals", September 24, 2008, © Environmental Working Group

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