Beware of potentially toxic substances that may be contained in nail polishes. These are endocrine disruptors that remain in the body of those who use these products.
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Beware of potentially toxic substances that may be contained in nail polishes. It is endocrine disruptors that remain in the body of those who use these products.
A new study conducted by researchers from Duke University and Environmental working group dealt with the presence of endocrine disruptors in glazes. The researchers tested the urine of 26 women who had recently painted their nails with nail polish and found traces of TPHP in each sample.
Il TPHPthe triphenylphosphate, is a substance that is used for the production of plastics and as a flame retardant component. It is also used by the cosmetics industry and it is not always indicated on the enamel labels, even when they contain it - at least as regards the products for sale in the US considered by the EWG.
The presence of this potentially toxic substance in women's urine is increased after applying nail polish. TPHP is used in glazes to extend their shelf life. Apparently it was introduced in nail polishes such as substitute ingredient for phthalates, already under accusation because they could damage the reproductive system. This replacement, however, would not have led to an improvement.
TPHP had already been previously identified as an endocrine disruptor capable of compromising the proper functioning of our hormonal system. It could be linked, for example, to the factors that lead to weight gain, but further studies will be needed to learn more about the effects of TPHP on our body.
Kate Hoffman, co-author of the study, suggests applying nail polish avoiding that it comes into contact with the skin to ensure that the substances of which it is composed do not go into the bloodstream. Among the nail polish brands that contain TPHP we find Opi, Revlon, Maybelline, Orly e Wet N Wild.
Photo source: EWG
The Environmental Working Group has decided to launch one petition per ask companies to eliminate the TPHP from their products and will update theirs soon online cosmetics database to evaluate which products are unsafe.
The study in question was published by the scientific journal Environment Intenrational. THU find the in-depth analysis of the study conducted by the Environmental Working Group.
Consult Thu la list of companies producing enamels containing TPHP e Thu a card dedicated to this substance. The suggestion is to always check the ingredients of your glazes, to write to companies to receive more information about it and to pay attention to purchases from abroad: the formulations of the glazes on sale in the US may be different from those in Europe.
Marta Albè
Source photo: iStock
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