According to the book Slow Death by Rubber Duck (Smith/ Lourie), it has been estimated that by the time the average woman grabs her morning coffee, she has applied 126 different chemicals in 12 different products to her face body and hair. Phthalates are found in cosmetics, air fresheners, nail polish, shampoo, plastic containers and plastic wrap made with PVC. The potential complications of phthalates include hormonal disruptions and reproductive health problems. Here is how you can reduce your exposure.• Choose unscented lotions and personal care products. (NOW newspaper has a great article on this)
aveda's hand relief is one of my favourites... • Do not heat plastic wrap in the microwave.
• Avoid PVC products and soft plastic toys which young children might suck or chew on.
• Look for plastics labeled #1, #2, #4 or #5
• Visiting the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database or Compact for Safe Cosmetics to help select the safest personal care products.