Cologne, cosmetics, toiletries and conception

Before spritzing your body with seductive scents certain to capture your partners attention, you may want to reconsider.

Scientists from Analycen Lab in Sweden (who were acquired in 2007 by Eurofins Scientific, a life sciences company operating internationally to provide a comprehensive range of analytical testing services to clients from a wide range of industries including pharmaceutical, food and environmental sectors with over 6,000 staff in more than 100 laboratories across 27 countries) discovered links between colognes and cosmetics, and reproductive health issues, especially in young males.

Analyzing 34 leading brands of cosmetics, the researchers found more than three-quarters contained diethylhexyl phthalate or other phthalates, used to prevent fragrance loss. And, according to the study, damage to the reproductive system is possible in the adult male and female as well as the male unborn child. Impairment can occur as early as the first four to eight weeks of gestation. Scientists believe the phthalates can be absorbed into woman’s bloodstream through the epidermis or inhalation, thus causing severe health issues for some.

Concerned about the rising levels of testicular cancer in young men, some researchers assert the significance of the phthalates correlation. Other genital abnormalities noted were undescended testicles and malformation of the urinary tract.

Professor Richard Sharpe, of The Medical Research Council’s Human Reproductive Sciences Unit in Edinburgh concluded “If you wanted to produce a list of environmental causes of the reproductive health problems in boys, phthalates would be pretty near the top of the list.”

Some of the products containing diethylhexyl phthalate or other phthalates noted in the study were the cologne Tommy Girl, Chanel No 5, Christian Dior’s Poison, Eternity from Calvin Klein and Tresor by Lancome. Other toiletry products like Impulse Body Spray, Nivea Deo Compact, Sure Ultra deodorant, Shockwaves hair mousse and hairsprays including Pantene Pro-V Extra Hold and Vidal Sassoon.