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ASK DR. DESAI: Tips for buying green personal care products

This is the eighth article in this series wherein I will discuss ingredients that you may want to avoid in products. This month I will cover a class of compounds called Dibutyl pthalate (pronounced thal-ate) which may be found in personal care products such as nail products or household products.

What is dibutyl phthalate (DBP)?

Dibutyl phthalate is an odorless and colorless to faint yellow oily liquid.

What is the purpose of dibutyl phthalate in personal care or household products?

Dibutyl phthalate is used as a solvent for dyes and as a plasticizer for preventing nail polishes from becoming brittle. It is also used to make polyvinylchloride (PVC) plastics soft and flexible.

What kind of products is dibutyl phthalate found in?

Dibutyl phthalate are found in nail products, shower curtains, raincoats, food wraps, bowls, car interiors, vinyl fabrics, floor tiles, and other products.

What health risks are associated with dibutyl phthalate?

Dibutyl phthalate is absorbed through the skin. While dibutyl pthalate itself has not found to be carcinogenic, it can enhance mutagenesis of other chemicals. According to the EPA’s website, “No studies are available on the reproductive, developmental, or carcinogenic effects of dibutyl phthalate in humans. Animal studies have reported developmental and reproductive effects from oral exposure. EPA has classified dibutyl phthalate as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity.” The European Union has considered dibutyl phthalate as a potential endocrine disruptor on the basis of evidence that it interferes with hormone function and as a reproductive toxic on the basis that it may cause harm to the unborn child and impair fertility. The EU also notes that dibutyl phthalates are harmful to aquatic organisms.

So the next time you buy nail products or household products try and choose formulas that are dibutyl phthalate free. Stay tuned for the next monthly installation of this series to learn about what else you need to be on the lookout for and avoid.

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