Are Phthalates Toxic for the Human System?

One of the most commonly used chemicals in the world is phthalates. Over one billion pounds of phthalates are annually released in the United States alone. Phthalates are odorless, colorless and oily liquids which are used as ‘plasticizers’. These are synthetic ingredients that are used for softening plastics which would otherwise crack and break. There are many ways phthalates can enter the body. Skin absorption, inhalation and ingestion are how phthalates can enter the body. However, they do nor evaporate easily or do not chemically bind to substances. From production, product use and disposal, phthalates can be released at any stage of product life cycle. They can be set off by product disturbances, absorption, prolonged storage and heat. Harmful effects of phthalates exposure are increased because they can interact with one another. 

How are Phthalates Harmful to Me?
According to US FDA it is still not clear how phthalates affect the human system and our health. Nevertheless, there are strict regulations on the use of this ingredient in Canada and European Union. Environmental, medical experts and consumer advocacy in the United States suggest that phthalates can be linked to numerous harmful effects on the hormone activity on humans. Phthalates can interact with one another and increase the harmful effects of their exposure.

How Do Phthalates Affect Hair?
Phthalates are largely used as gelling agents in many shampoos. Phthalates are also found in conditioners, hair sprays and mousses. They increase the ability to spread and soften other substances while enhancing absorption. Phthalates also help fragrances last longer. Manufacturers however, do not have to list phthalates on product labels under the current US law. Most items listed as ‘fragrance’ in hair care products contain phthalates. Measures to reduce use of phthalates in personal care products have not been fruitful despite significant evidence showing potential dangers. Permanent damage and malformation of the male reproductive system has been observed in animal testing. Phthalates are presently sold in several hair care products in biggest brands in the market. Carefully reading product labels is the best way to avoid exposure to phthalates. It is better to stick with the companies that have pledged to be phthalate-free. Ristrah products are 0absolutely phthalate-free.

How Phthalates are known on Product Labels?
Phthalates are known as various names on ingredient panels. Some of the ingredients which indicate phthalates are named below. 
Di-n-Hexyl Phthalate (DnHP)  
Diisodecyl Phthalate (DiDP)  
Diisononyl Phthalate (DiNP)  
Di-n-Octyl Phthalate (DNOP)  
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)  
Benzylbutyl Phthalate (BzBP)  
Di(2-Ethylexyl) Phthalate DEHP  
Diethyl Phthalate (DEP)  
Dimethyl Phthalate (DMP)  
Dibutyl Phthalate (DCP) 

Side Effects of Phthalates on the Human Body
There are many side effects which phthalates can cause to the human body including premature birth, low birth weight, asthma, infertility in men and women, obesity, worsening of allergy symptoms, early onset of puberty, behavioral changes, insulin resistance in adolescence, lower testosterone in men, risk of increase in breast and liver cancer and interfering with the natural functioning of the human hormone system. Understanding the risk phthalates pose should help us be better informed and motivate us to switch to all natural products. Therefore, choose wisely when you look out for hair care products.


 
Shop Online for All Natural Hair Care Products
All Ristrah hair care products are all natural & phthalate-free.


Schild Hair Color Stain Protector – Alongside nourishing skin, this also prevents hair color staining the skin. This is an all- natural which is free of phthalates, parabens, SLS/SLES, PEG, petrochemicals, alcohol, animal ingredients or synthetic fragrances. Just apply along the forehead, hairline, ears and neck before using hair dye.  
Schild Hair Color Stain Remover – Made of witch hazel, vegetable glycerin and green tea extract, Ristrah’s Schild Hair Color Strain Remover gently removes hair color stains from skin. Just apply small amount on a cotton pad and gently rub stained areas of skin to remove excess color. Schild Hair Color Stain Remover is 100% vegan and free of phthalates or artificial fragrances.  
Ristrah’s All Natural Scalp Serum – This all natural scalp serum is formulated with Vitamin B5 and natural extracts. This all natural scalp serum helps in relieving dry, itchy, flaky and irritated scalp alongside strengthening hair and maintaining a healthy scalp. Lupine extract in the all natural scalp serum is meant to stimulate microcirculation in order to maintain healthy hair. Clover extract in the serum strengthens hair follicles while aloe and hibiscus moisturize and soothe scalp. 


​References
 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phthalate
 
https://toxtown.nlm.nih.gov/chemicals-and-contaminants/phthalates
 
https://phthalates.americanchemistry.com/