The use of personal care products during and after pregnancy has been found to increase exposure to toxic chemicals, according to a new study conducted by researchers at Brown University. Published in Environment International, the study highlights the association between the use of products like nail polish, makeup, and hair dye during pregnancy or lactation and higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in blood plasma and breast milk.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been in use since the 1950s due to their ability to resist oil, water, and heat. However, these chemicals have been linked to various adverse health effects, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and certain cancers. The study emphasizes the importance of reducing exposure to PFAS during pregnancy and breastfeeding to mitigate potential risks to both mothers and infants.
Lead researcher Amber Hall and her team analyzed data from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals Study, which included 2,001 pregnant individuals from across Canada. The study assessed the impact of personal care product use on PFAS concentrations in prenatal plasma and human milk. Results showed that higher use of nail care products, fragrances, makeup, hair dyes, and hair sprays or gels was associated with elevated levels of PFAS in both plasma and breast milk.
For example, individuals who wore makeup daily during pregnancy had 14% higher plasma PFAS concentrations, while those using colored-permanent dye postpartum showed an increase of 16-18% in PFAS levels in breast milk. The study also indicated that the research likely underestimated the overall exposure to PFAS from personal care products, given the limited scope of PFAS types examined.
Professor Joseph Braun, who has been studying the health effects of PFAS for over a decade, emphasized the need for further research to understand how different types of personal care products impact PFAS exposure. This knowledge can guide individuals in making informed choices and inform regulatory measures to reduce the population’s exposure to harmful chemicals.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of being mindful of the personal care products used during pregnancy and breastfeeding to minimize exposure to toxic chemicals. By raising awareness about the potential risks associated with PFAS, researchers hope to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their product choices and advocate for stricter regulations to protect public health.
