Phthalates: What Are They And Why You Should Avoid Them?
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I get emails several times a week from candle enthusiast who are curious about phthalates. Many people are unaware of the dangers and potential health risks of using a product that contains phthalates.
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastic and vinyl. Phthalates are also known as plasticizers. Phthalates are also used as dissolving agents in some materials. Phthalates can be found in vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, raincoats, personal care products , household products, insecticides, furniture, children's toys and candles.
A good example of how phthalates are used in personal care products is lotion. Phthalates help lotion penetrate and soften the skin, and help fragrances last longer. So if you were wondering how phthalates are used in candles, (spoiler alert) fragrance oil! Yes, phthalates are used in fragrance oil to help the fragrance last longer. Now take a deep breath, count to 10 and relax!
The problem with using products that contain phthalates are the health risks. All of the health risks for phthalates are not fully known but according to the FDA and CDC, too much exposure to phthalates can cause liver, kidney, and lung damage, low sperm count and damage to the reproductive system.
Before you go throwing away all your kid's toys, your beautiful red Mac lipstick and favorite candles, let's discuss what you can do to limit your exposure to phthalates.
The first step is to read labels!! I can't stress that enough, please read your labels. Second, shop from companies that only sell phthalate-free products. (Winks eye!) Blue Fawn Candle Company - Home of phthalate-free candles and wax melts!!
Phthalates can not be completely avoided but you can limit your exposure to them.
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Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastic and vinyl. Phthalates are also known as plasticizers. Phthalates are also used as dissolving agents in some materials. Phthalates can be found in vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, raincoats, personal care products , household products, insecticides, furniture, children's toys and candles.
A good example of how phthalates are used in personal care products is lotion. Phthalates help lotion penetrate and soften the skin, and help fragrances last longer. So if you were wondering how phthalates are used in candles, (spoiler alert) fragrance oil! Yes, phthalates are used in fragrance oil to help the fragrance last longer. Now take a deep breath, count to 10 and relax!
The problem with using products that contain phthalates are the health risks. All of the health risks for phthalates are not fully known but according to the FDA and CDC, too much exposure to phthalates can cause liver, kidney, and lung damage, low sperm count and damage to the reproductive system.
Before you go throwing away all your kid's toys, your beautiful red Mac lipstick and favorite candles, let's discuss what you can do to limit your exposure to phthalates.
The first step is to read labels!! I can't stress that enough, please read your labels. Second, shop from companies that only sell phthalate-free products. (Winks eye!) Blue Fawn Candle Company - Home of phthalate-free candles and wax melts!!
Phthalates can not be completely avoided but you can limit your exposure to them.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more candle tips and awesome promotions! Subscribe Now!
