What are Phthalates?
Phthalates are chemicals that can be found in everyday products, including cleaning soaps, hair sprays, and fragrance oils. They are used to increase durability and elasticity in plastic products, but research has shown that they can have harmful effects on the human body. The National Health Institute warns that exposure to phthalates can negatively impact the reproductive, neurological, and developmental systems, and can even irritate the skin, nose, and mouth. According to Harvard, phthalates can also be harmful to our reproductive systems and testosterone, an important hormone in our bodies.
What are the Health Risks Associated with Phthalates
Recent research has shown that exposure to phthalates during pregnancy can lead to a higher risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that phthalates can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones in the body, leading to potential health effects such as infertility, obesity, and diabetes. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) also warns that phthalates can act as irritants to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, and can even cause developmental and reproductive problems in laboratory animals.
One of the products that can contain phthalates is scented candles. Many fragrance oils used in candles contain phthalates, which can be released into the air when the candle is burned. Inhaling or absorbing these harmful chemicals through the skin can have negative effects on our health and wellbeing. Therefore, it is important to be vigilant and choose candles that are explicitly labeled as phthalate-free.
Why you should only burn candles with Phthalate-Free Fragrance oils
At Hive To Home Candle Co, we exclusively use phthalate-free fragrance oils in our scented candles to ensure that our customers can enjoy the lovely aromas without having to worry about inhaling or absorbing harmful chemicals through their skin. We believe that by taking these simple precautions, consumers can help protect their health and wellbeing from the harmful effects of phthalates.
It is important to note that phthalates are not currently banned in the United States and can be found in a variety of household products. The CDC's findings had shown phthalate exposure is widespread and measurable in the general population. However, by choosing phthalate-free products, consumers can help reduce their exposure to these harmful chemicals. Additionally, using products made from natural ingredients can also help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
In conclusion, while phthalates can be found in many everyday products, including scented candles, there are steps that consumers can take to protect themselves and their loved ones. By choosing products that are explicitly labeled as phthalate-free and made from natural ingredients, consumers can reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals and help protect their health and wellbeing.
References
Gupta, R. K., & Stapleton, H. M. (2018). Personal care and cleaning products as sources of phthalate exposure. Current environmental health reports, 5(2), 125-134.
US Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Phthalates. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/phthalates
US Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Phthalates. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additive-inventories/color-additive-status-phthalates
Wenzel, A. G., & Hamers, T. (2013). Endocrine disrupting chemicals and other substances of concern in food contact materials: an updated review of exposure, effect and risk assessment. Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology, 137, 118-127.
