Harvard professor warns of "forever chemicals" in beauty products like perfume that could be harmful
CAMBRIDGE - If beauty products are on your Christmas list this year, one Massachusetts doctor is urging you to check labels for ingredients that may be hazardous to your health.
Found in beauty products
"The chemical is a phthalate and that's one chemical that's part of this group called endocrine disrupting chemicals," said Dr. Trisha Pasricha, a professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School.
The substance used to make products more durable and last longer is often referred to as a "forever chemical". According to Dr. Pasricha, it can be found in household beauty items including perfume, nail polish, shampoos, and lotions.
"Really, if you just see the word 'fragrance' buried somewhere in that paragraph, that tells you it probably does have a phthalate in it that's probably not being disclosed," Dr. Pasricha said.
What's the risk with forever chemicals?
According to the Harvard professor too much use of the chemical can be linked to negative health issues: "Things like ADHD, cardiovascular disease, even cancer," she said. "So, scientists are really raising the alarm."
The FDA says there's not enough evidence to prove that phthalates used in cosmetics are hazardous to human health. This is why some people told WBZ they still use the products.
"Honestly, I haven't but I think I probably should," said Maddie, a customer at Target.
"It's overwhelming, I think. It's like, there's chemicals in everything and it's a scary thought," said another shopper.
At this time, the FDA says they're continuously monitoring and researching phthalates used in cosmetics. According to Dr. Pasricha, you can take action yourself by making small changes like "Using products that are more chemical-free, that are fragrance-free," she said.
