Modern industry uses various chemical compounds to impart specified properties to materials. Many of them are unsafe for human health. Phthalates are an example of such hazardous substances . What is this So called salts of phthalic acid, which are used as plasticizers. The scope of their application is extremely multifaceted. However, scientists warn of a high risk of exposure to such substances on the structure of human DNA.
Phthalates. What it is
This name unites a group of substances, which in their chemical essence are phthalic acid esters. Get it by oxidizing naphthalene. It is a colorless crystal with a melting point of 200 ° C. During heating, this acid turns into phthalic anhydrite. It is important to note that phthalates mimic the structure of the sex hormone estrogen. Once in the human body, they can cause serious disorders in the endocrine, reproductive systems. But still today you can find a huge variety of products where phthalates are used. What is it, we have already figured out. Now it’s worthwhile to find out about the most common products and materials, in the composition of which you can find a dangerous chemical substance.
Scopes of phthalates
As plasticizers, phthalates are used in the manufacture of building materials, medical equipment, goods for children, in cosmetology. Everyone likes beautiful stretch ceilings that give the room a modern, colorful look. However, few people know that low-quality film can become an "invisible killer." Catheters, all kinds of containers for blood and other materials, the shell of some drugs - this is another area of application of phthalates. Of course, today you will not surprise anyone with the presence of harmful substances in paints, rubber, lubricants. However, in synthetic clothes, and in packaging, and in raincoats, curtains for the bathroom, and even in the upholstery material of the car, phthalates are found. Where else are these harmful compounds contained? Unfortunately, even baby products (teats, special teething teeth), toys can cause poor health.
Phthalates and cosmetics
We use cosmetics every day. However, experts, exploring the market for beauty products, were amazed at the results. Almost every second nail polish contains phthalates. Shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, cosmetics with sunscreens - all these products include unsafe phthalic acid salts. Almost every toilet water or perfume contains diethyl phthalate - a substance that is a fixative in odor, a substitute for alcohol. It is worth noting that many cosmetics, lipsticks, creams have hidden phthalates in their composition. What it is? Most often, harmful components are called one, at first glance, not suspicious word "perfume." However, one of the main components of such a composition is the phthalic acid salt.
Can foods contain phthalates?
Phthalates are not used directly in the food industry. However, these substances are one of the main components of containers, packaging for products. Thus, they can penetrate into food. In a number of cases, phthalates in wine were discovered. They enter the drink through materials that are used in the process (for example, wine containers). There is a danger of phthalic acid salts entering the body when heating food in plastic dishes in microwave ovens. Phthalates are easily released from plastic upon contact with air. Bottled water is safe while it is closed. As soon as the lid is unscrewed, the plastic container becomes unusable for reuse.
What are phthalates, what harm do health
If the use of phthalates does not exceed acceptable boundary indicators, then they will not cause a sharp negative effect. However, the main danger lies elsewhere. These chemical compounds are able to accumulate in our body. The more toxic elements are in the body, the more severe the consequences can become. Once in the body, phthalates are distributed throughout all organs, harming the hormonal system, liver, and lungs. Phthalates in the body of a man inhibit the production of testosterone. In women, they provoke the development of breast cancer, ovarian disease. A large amount of these substances can lead to infertility in both sexes. In addition, it was found that phthalates can be harmful during pregnancy, as they easily penetrate the placenta. In addition to disrupting the normal course of pregnancy, children in the womb have problems with the reproductive system.
How do phthalates affect a child’s body?
Children often come in contact with objects and products made of plastic and rubber. These are all kinds of toys, and soothers, and cosmetics for the smallest. Studies have shown that babies often have problems with emotional behavior. More often than others they suffer from attacks of aggression, distracted attention, they cannot control their own feelings, they are hyperactive. In addition, puberty is also disrupted. Other studies draw a parallel between the presence of phthalates and overweight in girls. The relationship between an increased concentration of phthalic acid salts and a disease such as asthma has also been established. Children under three years of age are most vulnerable to the effects of these chemical compounds.
Is it possible to protect yourself from harmful chemistry
First of all, it is worth remembering that any sharp, chemical smell of the product is a signal that dangerous substances can be in its composition. It is best to buy goods from well-known companies that have all the appropriate quality certificates and care about their reputation. Children's toys must have a special mark (CE). Many foreign manufacturers strictly regulate the fluoride content in goods for children. It is necessary to read the packaging, which indicates the composition of the product. With special care, it is worth approaching the choice of cosmetics. Today, many enterprises produce phthalates-free beauty and health products. Do not abuse waterproof carcasses, shadows. During pregnancy, the use of cosmetics is best minimized, because many manufacturers do not quite honestly indicate the content of hazardous substances on the packaging. For repairs, it is also worth purchasing high-quality materials from well-known companies. The price issue is also important here. Good finishing material cannot be cheap. A pungent smell, lack of proper documentation - this is a good reason to refuse to buy. As in all situations, it is necessary to look for alternative options: a stretch ceiling made of PVC can be replaced with a fabric one, industrial cosmetics with a natural one. It is worth abandoning plastic packaging and food containers.
Are phthalates prohibited?
Toxic phthalates are prohibited in the manufacture of toys and products for children in many countries of Europe and in America. In particular, it is diphthalate, butylphenyl phthalate, etc. A few more species are partially prohibited (until the publication of the results of the study). Many civilized states are already considering banning the use of phthalates. It is worth noting that it is preferable to use high molecular weight compounds of phthalic acid salts (for example, dizodecyl phthalate). You should also know the marking of different types of plastics. The main sign that indicates that the plastic is well recycled is a triangle of arrows. Inside such a symbol is a number. 1 - the safest type of plastics. Used for the manufacture of packaging, containers. The number 2 also indicates the safety of the use of such plastic in the food industry. The numbers 3, 6, 7 characterize the type of material, the use of which should nevertheless be abandoned.