Phthalates as endocrine disruptors and infertility as a consequence.

Newer generations have begun to question the ingredients in cosmetic formulations; most, if not all, reagents have been re-evaluated for their toxicological safety in the last 10 years and their compatibility with the human body. Among the most controversial and harmful cosmetic reagents are phthalates.

Phthalates are an oily liquid, transparent, practically odorless, slightly soluble in water, and completely soluble in any fragrance. Chemically, they are synthetic diesters and commonly known as BPA. Phthalates are grouped by their molecular weight, high molecular weight and low molecular weight; these are used in the cosmetic industry as a vehicle to enhance fragrance and its duration. But are they toxic? Do they alter my hormones? Do they affect my short- and medium-term health? The answer to all the above questions is yes.

Recent research has shown that phthalates are endocrine disruptors, which are compounds that interfere with the production, release, transport, and/or elimination of natural hormones responsible for the functioning of the human body. Endocrine disruptors can be natural in origin; however, those of chemical origin generate the most concern.

Phthalates are toxic to both testes and ovaries and are strongly linked to infertility in humans. They directly inhibit testosterone synthesis, resulting in signs of feminization in men, which is called "phthalate syndrome." In women, it manifests as premature puberty and a shorter gestational age.

In addition to developmental and reproductive problems, there is increasing concern about metabolic problems. Phthalates are classified as obesogens because they can critically alter lipid metabolism or energy balance, potentially enhancing obesity. In humans, the concentration of certain phthalate metabolites correlates positively with abdominal obesity.

Phthalates are so toxic to humans that just 1 drop of this component in a swimming pool is enough to alter the human body, and the lethal dose is from 1g. The European Union banned the use of certain phthalates in toys, children's articles, and cosmetics above a specific threshold; however, certain phthalates are still widely used in medical equipment and many other applications worldwide. Broadly speaking, most studies on phthalates were conducted in Western countries and, according to estimates, still account for almost 50% of global consumption, given that they are widely produced and used in countries like China and India, in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and other Asian countries.

Bibliographies:

Koniecki D., Wang R., MoodyP., Zhu J. 2011. Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: Concentrations and possible dermal exposure. Environmental Research. Volume 111. Elsevier. Pages 329-336.

Sathyanarayana S., Barret E., Butts S., Wang C., Swan S., 2014. Phtalate Exposure and Reproductive Hormone Concentrations in Pregnancy. HHS Author Manuscripts.

Badia M., Leiva E., Colls M. Llop J., 2018. Distruptores endocrinos en nutrición artificial. SciElo. Version On-line.