Use-patterns of personal care and household cleaning products in Switzerland

Gender differences in allergic contact dermatitis to common allergens

BACKGROUND

Gender-based differences in skin structure, physiology, and allergen exposure can influence contact dermatitis development.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the differences and trends in contact sensitizers, focusing on the top 10 allergens and personal care product (PCP) contact allergies from a gender perspective.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 5998 patients undergoing patch testing at an occupational and contact dermatitis clinic in a Thai, university-based, tertiary referral hospital from January 2001 to December 2021. Patients' characteristics and patch test results were collected.

RESULTS

Females had a higher positive patch test rate than males (71.8% vs. 65%, p < 0.001). However, males showed a greater prevalence of occupationally related allergic contact dermatitis (15.9%). Multivariate analysis revealed associations between being female and allergies to colophonium (aOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.07-1.99, p = 0.019), formaldehyde (aOR 1.97, 95% CI 1.17-13.31, p = 0.010), fragrance mix I (aOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.34-2.07, p < 0.001), MCI/MI (aOR 2.55, 95% CI 1.90-3.44, p < 0.001), neomycin (aOR 4.15, 95% CI 2.54-6.80, p < 0.001), and nickel (aOR 2.62, 95% CI 2.17-3.15, p < 0.001). Conversely, being male correlated with allergies to carba mix (aOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.41-0.64, p < 0.001), epoxy resin (aOR 0.26, 95% CI 0.14-0.47, p < 0.001), n-isopropyl-n-phenyl-4-phenylenediamine (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.20-0.83, p = 0.014), paraben mix (aOR 0.42, 95% CI 0.32-0.56, p < 0.001), and potassium dichromate (aOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58-0.84, p < 0.001). Positive reactions to PCPs stood at 13% overall (males 17.1%, females 12.2%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Gender plays a pivotal role in contact dermatitis. This work emphasises the importance of considering gender-specific factors when diagnosing and managing contact allergies.

Increasing exposure to the UV filters octocrylene and 2-ethylhexyl salicylate in Germany from 1996 to 2020: Human biomonitoring in 24-h urine samples of the German Environmental Specimen Bank (ESB)

The UV filters octocrylene (OC) and 2-ethylhexyl salicylate (EHS) are commonly used in sunscreens and frequently detected in environmental media. However, knowledge on human exposures is scarce. In this human biomonitoring (HBM) study, we analyzed concentrations of exposure biomarkers specific to OC (CPAA, DOCCA, 5OH-OC) and EHS (5OH-EHS, 5oxo-EHS, 5cx-EPS) in 24-h urine samples (n = 420) from the German Environmental Specimen Bank (ESB). These samples were collected from German students (20-29 years; 30 males/30 females per year) between 1996 and 2020 (4-year intervals; collection in winter). We found continuously increasing OC and EHS exposures (Jonckheere-Terpstra; p < 0.001) documented by very few to no samples with concentrations of the most sensitive biomarkers CPAA and 5cx-EPS above the limit of quantification (LOQ) in 1996 (5 % and 0 %, respectively) and reaching 100 % and 93 % above the LOQ in 2016, with median concentrations of 4.79 and 0.071 µg/L, respectively. In 2020, biomarker concentrations slightly decreased to 3.12 µg/L CPAA (97 %>LOQ) and 0.060 µg/L 5cx-EPS (88 %>LOQ). This general trend was confirmed by the other biomarkers, however at lower detection rates. Based on metabolite excretion in the 24-h urine samples and human toxicokinetic data, we calculated maximum daily intakes (DI) of 17 µg/(kg bw * d) OC and 59 µg/(kg bw * d) EHS. Based on a derived no-effect level (DNEL) of 0.8 mg/(kg bw * d), the OC exposures of individuals in our study did not indicate any health risk. Similarly, for EHS all biomarker concentrations were well below the HBM-I values of 12 µg/L 5OH-EHS and 11 µg/L 5cx-EPS. Our data proves the general applicability of specific OC and EHS metabolites for HBM in the general population and shows clearly increasing exposures. Higher (co-)exposures must be expected in populations with increased sunscreen use such as (summer) vacationers, children and outdoor workers.

The influence of media narratives on microplastics risk perception

Background

Media are the interface between scientists and citizens, communicating and interpreting the risk message and powerfully influencing individual awareness, public debate, and, hence, people's behavior. Pollution by microplastics (MPs), a threat to public health and terrestrial and marine ecosystems, has received research, media, and public interest. However, how MPs environmental and health risks are reflected in the media and assessed in the scientific literature does not find consensus over time. To date, few studies have examined social aspects around MPs, such as, for example, factors that influence awareness and perception of the risk of MPs. In this context, the objective of this study is twofold. First, we determined if media narratives influenced Romanians' awareness of MPs, and second, we investigated if media narratives influenced Romanians' perceptions of MPs health and environmental risk.

Method

An online survey was conducted among 417 Romanian respondents. The questionnaire had 21 questions. The questions were related to the awareness of MPs, the perceived health risk of MPs, the perceived environmental risk of MPs, the intensity of exposure to media narratives about the MPs impact on health and the environment, and the demographics. Binary logistic regression was run to identify what media narratives influenced MPs awareness and risk perception. In recent times, mass media has shaped perceptions of health and environmental risks, driven by events like COVID-19 and global climate change. Our study relies on media narratives as its foundation.

Results

Binary logistic regression showed that the awareness of MPs is influenced by the media narrative "Microplastics in the sea threaten fish stocks" (p = 0.001). When the frequency of exposure to this media narrative increases, the probability of reporting awareness of MPs increases. Likewise, an increase in age represents a higher probability of reporting awareness of MPs. The perceived health risk of MPs, with the highest weighting, was related to the dependent variable "Leakage of harmful chemicals from MPs affects the soil" (p = 0.014).

Conclusions

Media narratives about plastic and MPs pollution have increased over time, influencing the perception of this risk. The study argues the need for accurate and balanced media reporting on MPs to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure that people clearly understand MPs risks. Furthermore, a closer examination of people's perceptions supports the design of appropriate interventions to reduce plastic consumption, thereby decreasing the risks of MPs pollution with benefits for human health and the environment.

Application habits and practices of regular sunscreen users in the United States: Results of an online survey

A nationwide online survey assessed claimed usage of sunscreen products in 2283 self-identified regular sun protection factor (SPF) consumers (RSPFC) in the United States. Subjects applied sunscreen most frequently when spending more than 3 h in the sun. Sunscreen usage peaks during the summer, with sunny weather prompting 99% usage of beach/recreational SPF products but drops to approximately 50% and 30% on partly cloudy and cloudy days, respectively, regardless of SPF product category. About half of RSPFC augment sunscreen product usage by limiting time in the sun and wearing a hat. SPF products are not reapplied by approximately 20-60% of RSPFC, depending upon product category, and reapplication was less than 33% on cloudy and partly cloudy days. Primary reasons for reapplication were water exposure, number of hours in the sun, and being active/sweating, most notably for beach/recreational SPF products. Importantly, in children, 45% of parents reported "redness" as a signal for reapplying sunscreen product. Only 10% of respondents correctly identified sunscreen products as drugs. Based on these results, while sunscreens may share common ingredients and efficacy measures, their usage by consumers varies widely depending on product type, season, weather, gender, age, and geographical location.

Risk factor for children in the pandemic: the use of cleaning products at home

Background

Intensified cleaning protocols to maintain a safe environment during the pandemic caused an increase in the use of disinfectants. The use of cleaning products in safer conditions by mothers is one of the important practices that will reduce the risk of household accidents.

Objective

The aim of research was determine the practices of mothers about the safe use of cleaning and disinfectant products in the COVID-19.

Methods

Data were collected by online survey among 255 mothers of the children 0-6 age from April and July 2021. Percentage, mean and chi-square tests were used to evaluate the data.

Results

It was reported that the amount of cleaning product usage (69%) increased significantly, 26.3% of the mothers store the products in a locked cabinet and 29.4% use the product in the recommended amount. It was detected 28.7% of the mothers use disinfectants close to children. It was detected that 37.6% of the families were exposed to cleaning and disinfectant products. There was not significant difference between exposure situations and maternal age, education, employment status.

Conclusions

It can be suggested that health workers should organize screening and training programs for the community about safe cleaning and disinfection practices.

The Role of Sex and Gender in Dermatology - From Pathogenesis to Clinical Implications

BACKGROUND

Sex and gender have increasingly been recognized as significant risk factors for many diseases, including dermatological conditions. Historically, sex and gender have often been grouped together as a single risk factor in the scientific literature. However, both may have a distinct impact on disease incidence, prevalence, clinical presentation, severity, therapeutic response, and associated psychological distress.

OBJECTIVES AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The mechanisms that underlie differences in skin diseases between males, females, men, and women remain largely unknown. The specific objectives of this review paper are:To highlight the biological differences between males and females (sex), as well as the sociocultural differences between men and women (gender) and how they impact the integumentary system.To perform a literature review to identify important sex- and gender-related epidemiological and clinical differences for various skin conditions belonging to a range of disease categories and to discuss possible biological and sociocultural factors that could explain the observed differences.To discuss dermatological skin conditions and gender-affirming treatments within the transgender community, a population of individuals who have a gender identity which is different than the gender identity they were assigned at birth.

FUTURE IMPACT

With the rising number of individuals that identify as non-binary or transgender within our increasingly diverse communities, it is imperative to recognize gender identity, gender, and sex as distinct entities. By doing so, clinicians will be able to better risk-stratify their patients and select treatments that are most aligned with their values. To our knowledge, very few studies have separated sex and gender as two distinct risk factors within the dermatology literature. Our article also has the potential to help guide future prevention strategies that are patient-tailored rather than using a universal approach.

Consumer habits and practices for cosmetics and personal care products in Singapore: An online survey

Understanding trends in habits and practices of cosmetics and personal care products is essential for the assessment of product exposure and simultaneously, the establishment of safe use levels for incorporated ingredients. To date, most exposure data is limited to European and USA populations, with data on Asian-specific habits and practices lacking. This data gap needs to be filled as evidence has shown that there is a large variation in product use behaviors between consumers, across and within populations. Moreover, there is a need to seek a more efficient approach of data collection. Conventional methods of collecting habits and practices data require extensive effort and are generally cost and time intensive. In this publication, we demonstrate the feasibility of employing a rapid and cost-effective online survey approach to gather habits and practices for Southeast Asia, specifically Singapore. We describe the methodology and display the type of habits and practices data that can be gathered through this approach. Although certain limitations exist, this approach can be used to effectively collect preliminary product use data across regions and different product categories.

Trends in the Prevalence of Methylchloroisothiazolinone/Methylisothiazolinone Contact Allergy in North America and Europe

Importance

The common use of isothiazolinones as preservatives is a global cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Differences in allowable concentrations of methylisothiazolinone (MI) exist in Europe, Canada, and the US.

Objective

To compare the prevalence of positive patch test reactions to the methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) combination and MI alone in North America and Europe from 2009 to 2018.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective analysis of North American Contact Dermatitis Group, European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies (ESSCA), and the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) databases included data from patients presenting for patch testing at referral patch test clinics in North America and Europe.

Exposures

Patch tests to MCI/MI and MI.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis to MCI/MI and MI.

Results

From 2009 to 2018, participating sites in North America and Europe patch tested a total of 226 161 individuals to MCI/MI and 118 779 to MI. In Europe, positivity to MCI/MI peaked during 2013 and 2014 at 7.6% (ESSCA) and 5.4% (IVDK) before decreasing to 4.4% (ESSCA) and 3.2% (IVDK) during 2017 and 2018. Positive reactions to MI were 5.5% (ESSCA) and 3.4% (IVDK) during 2017 and 2018. In North America, the frequency of positivity to MCI/MI increased steadily through the study period, reaching 10.8% for MCI/MI during 2017 and 2018. Positive reactions to MI were 15.0% during 2017 and 2018.

Conclusions and Relevance

The study results suggest that in contrast to the continued increase in North America, isothiazolinone allergy is decreasing in Europe. This trend may coincide with earlier and more stringent government regulation of MI in Europe.

Phenols, Parabens, Phthalates and Puberty: a Systematic Review of Synthetic Chemicals Commonly Found in Personal Care Products and Girls' Pubertal Development

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals through personal care products (PCPs) is widespread and may disrupt hormone-sensitive endpoints, such as timing of puberty. Given the well-documented (and ongoing) decline in age at menarche in many populations, we conducted a systematic review of the epidemiological literature on exposure to chemicals commonly found in PCPs (including certain phthalates, phenols, and parabens) in relation to girls' pubertal development.

RECENT FINDINGS

The preponderance of research on this topic has examined phthalate exposures with the strongest evidence indicating that prenatal monoethyl phthalate (MEP) concentrations may be associated with slightly earlier timing of puberty, including age at menarche. Findings examining peri-pubertal phthalate exposures and pubertal outcomes were less consistent as were studies of prenatal and peri-pubertal phenol exposures. Very few studies had examined parabens in relation to girls' pubertal development. Common study limitations included potential exposure misclassification related to use of spot samples and/or mistimed biomarker assessment with respect to the outcomes. The role of body size as a mediator in these relationships remains unresolved. Overall, evidence of associations between chemical exposures in PCPs and girls' pubertal development was conflicting. When associations were observed, effect sizes were small. Nevertheless, given the many environmental, social, and behavioral factors in the modern environment that may act synergistically to accelerate timing of puberty, even marginal changes may be cause for concern, with implications for cancer risk, mental health, and cardiometabolic disease in later life.

Characterization of asbestos exposures associated with the use of facial makeups

There has been renewed interest in the safety of cosmetics that may contain asbestos or other elongate mineral particles at very low levels as a naturally occurring contaminant. The authors evaluated asbestos exposure during the application of facial makeups in a constructed chamber simulating a bathroom space. The facial makeups tested included products previously found to have very low or "trace" asbestos content by governmental and commercial laboratories using a variety of bulk analysis methods. Tremolite asbestos was detected in five of 54 personal air samples and three of 72 area air samples in 18 simulations. The calculated geometric mean and 95th percentile task-based asbestos concentration associated with personal facial makeup use in this study, incorporating censored data, is 0.0015 and 0.0018 fiber per cubic centimeter (f/cc), respectively, with a corresponding 95th percentile 24-h time-weighted average (TWA) asbestos concentration of 0.00008 f/cc for three applications per day in a simulated bathroom with no active ventilation. Based on these results, cumulative non-occupational asbestos exposures confer a less than one in 1,000,000 risk of asbestos-related disease based on many typical usage patterns and less than 1/100,000 risk with upper-end lifetime usage patterns, using the US Environmental Protection Agency asbestos risk model.

Usage patterns of aromatherapy essential oil among Chinese consumers

Given the concern over contact allergy risk associated with aromatherapy, information regarding the use of essential oils (EOs) is crucial for consumer dermal exposure assessment. In this study we mainly aim to describe the usage patterns of EOs among Chinese consumers to provide important data for exposure assessment to fragrance allergens in EOs. A web survey was conducted in April 2020 among 1,518 potential Chinese EO consumers to assess consumer usage patterns. The usage patterns of 11 types of EOs were collected among female consumers (N = 457; ages 0–70). For females aged 0–14, they used Lavanda (42.9%) and Tea tree (57.1%) oils only. Among the senior age groups (15–70), Lavanda oil was the most used EO with 46.7%, 51%, 68.1%, and 50% for females aged 15–24, 25–39, 40–59 and 60–70, respectively. The majority of females aged 25–59 used Rose, Lavanda, Sandalwood, Frankincense and Jasmine oil on their whole face more than three times a week at diverse dilution rates. Usage patterns are described for all age groups. In consideration of usage pattern of females aged 25–59, co-exposure to fragrance allergens contained in EOs and cosmetics could make them vulnerable to contact allergy. This study provides valuable information for dermal exposure assessment.

Exploring the discharge characteristics of personal care behaviors for high precision estimation of microplastic emission

Microplastics (MPs) from personal care and cosmetic products (PCCPs) pose a threat to aquatic environment due to the small size and the complexity of composition. Although the habits of personal care behaviors (PCBs) vary from individuals affecting MPs emissions, quantitative research is not sufficient to support high-precision emission estimates and targeted management decisions. Based on a questionnaire survey about PCBs and laboratory experiments on corresponding PCCPs utilization, this study proposed a bottom-up micro-simulation method to quantify MPs emissions combining multinomial logit model and categorized emission coefficients, and identified the impact of individual attributes on the emissions. The results show that the annual PCBs-derived MPs emissions amounted to 2931.8 trillion particles in China, of which teeth brushing, face washing, and bathing behavior accounted for 29%, 36% and 35%, respectively. The residents discharged an average of 2.18 million particles per capita per year with 95% confidence interval of 0.58-4.34 million particles. Gender, age and living region had greater impacts on PCBs-derived MPs emissions. The effect of living region was significantly related to local temperature and humidity. The estimation based on the MPs discharge characteristics of PCBs provides high-precision method regarding the MPs emission from people's daily life and contributes to further understanding the source of MPs and initiating environmental control strategies.

Allergic contact stomatitis due to desensitizing toothpastes

Toothpastes are one of the most common personal care products among people of all ages. The various toothpaste types and their complex ingredients could cause irritation or allergic reactions. Allergic contact stomatitis has been often seen in clinical practice; however, desensitizing toothpastes as a trigger are often unrecognized. Here, we report three cases of allergic contact stomatitis due to stannous chloride-containing desensitizing toothpastes. General dentists and other professionals should pay more attention to the safety and adverse effects of toothpastes.

Assessing the distributions and fate of household and personal care chemicals (HPCCs) in the Songhua Catchment, Northeast China

Many household and personal care chemicals (HPCCs) are of environmental concern due to their potential toxicity to humans and wildlife. However, few studies investigate the spatiotemporal variations and fate of HPCCs in large-scale river systems. Here, river water and sediment samples from the Songhua River in Northeast China were analyzed for seven classes of HPCCs. Correlation analysis suggested similar sources and environmental behavior for compounds from the same HPCC classes. In the river water, the concentrations of most HPCCs in the cold season were significantly higher than that of the warm season (p < 0.01). Significantly higher levels of target compounds were found in the downstream water samples of a city, suggesting the influence of human activities on the distributions of HPCCs. The concentrations and distributions of most HPCCs were controlled by primary emission sources. The derived dissolved concentrations of HPCCs suggested that small amounts of caffeine and parabens were partitioned onto particles, while large amounts of many other HPCCs were bound to the particle phase. Water-sediment distribution coefficients (log K_d) ranged from 1.59 for caffeine to 3.95 for benzalkonium chloride-C14. This work presents new insights into the environmental behavior of HPCCs and the factors affecting their fate in river systems.

Data Mining Approaches for Assessing Chemical Coexposures Using Consumer Product Purchase Data

The use of consumer products presents a potential for chemical exposures to humans. Toxicity testing and exposure models are routinely employed to estimate risks from their use; however, a key challenge is the sparseness of information concerning who uses products and which products are used contemporaneously. Our goal was to demonstrate a method to infer use patterns by way of purchase data. We examined purchase patterns for three types of personal care products (cosmetics, hair care, and skin care) and two household care products (household cleaners and laundry supplies) using data from 60,000 households collected over a one-year period in 2012. The market basket analysis methodology frequent itemset mining (FIM) was used to identify co-occurring sets of product purchases for all households and demographic groups based on income, education, race/ethnicity, and family composition. Our methodology captured robust co-occurrence patterns for personal and household products, globally and for different demographic groups. FIM identified cosmetic co-occurrence patterns captured in prior surveys of cosmetic use, as well as a trend of increased diversity of cosmetic purchases as children mature to teenage years. We propose that consumer product purchase data can be mined to inform person-oriented use patterns for high-throughput chemical screening applications, for aggregate and combined chemical risk evaluations.

Frequency of use of household products containing VOCs and indoor atmospheric concentrations in homes

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a key class of atmospheric emission released from highly complex petrochemical, transport and solvent sources both outdoors and indoors. This study established the concentrations and speciation of VOCs in 60 homes (204 individuals, 360 × 72 h samples, 40 species) in summer and winter, along with outdoor controls. Self-reported daily statistics were collected in each home on the use of cleaning, household and personal care products, all of which are known to release VOCs. Frequency of product use varied widely: deodorants: 2.9 uses home per day; sealant-mastics 0.02 uses home per day. The total concentration of VOCs indoors (range C2-C10) was highly variable between homes e.g. range 16.6-8150 μg m-3 in winter. Indoor concentrations of VOCs exceeded outdoor for 84% of households studied in summer and 100% of homes in winter. The most abundant VOCs found indoors in this study were n-butane (wintertime range: 1.5-4630 μg m-3), likely released as aerosol propellant, ethanol, acetone and propane. The cumulative use VOC-containing products over multiday timescales by occupants provided little predictive power to infer 72 hour averaged indoor concentrations. However, there was weak covariance between the cumulative usage of certain products and individual VOCs. From a domestic emissions perspective, reducing the use of hydrocarbon-based aerosol propellants indoors would likely have the largest impact.

Potential health risks of metals in skin care products used by Chinese consumers aged 19-29 years

Metal contamination of skin care products that occurs during their production poses potential health risks, which are of increasing concern, to consumers. Here, we collected 570 responses to an online survey to analyze the usage pattern of skin care products across China. Then a total of 30 commonly used skin care products with various prices and applications were purchased. The concentrations of metals (Al, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cr, Pb, Hg, and Cd) and metalloid As, were determined. Next, we improved the frequency calculation method and used the weighted exposure frequency to calculate the dermal absorption dose (DAD). The amounts of Zn, Cr, and Al that were assimilated by the human body via uptake were approximately 2 orders of magnitude greater than those of Pb, Hg, Cd, Ni and metalloid As. In addition, younger consumers were at higher risk of metals exposure than older consumers because of their higher frequency of use of skin care products. Al and Zn posed higher risk to consumers because of its high DAD. There was no significant chronic non-carcinogenic health risk (hazard index < 1) posed by skincare product use.

A Potential Health Risk to Occupational User from Exposure to Biocidal Active Chemicals

Biocidal active chemicals have potential health risks associated with exposure to retail biocide products such as disinfectants for COVID-19. Reliable exposure assessment was investigated to understand the exposure pattern of biocidal products used by occupational workers in their place of occupation, multi-use facilities, and general facilities. The interview-survey approach was taken to obtain the database about several subcategories of twelve occupational groups, the use pattern, and the exposure information of non-human hygiene disinfectant and insecticide products in workplaces. Furthermore, we investigated valuable exposure factors, e.g., the patterns of use, exposure routes, and quantifying potential hazardous chemical intake, on biocidal active ingredients. We focused on biocidal active-ingredient exposure from products used by twelve occupational worker groups. The 685 non-human hygiene disinfectants and 763 insecticides identified contained 152 and 97 different active-ingredient chemicals, respectively. The toxicity values and clinical health effects of total twelve ingredient chemicals were determined through a brief overview of toxicity studies aimed at estimating human health risks. To estimate actual exposure amounts divided by twelve occupational groups, the time spent to apply the products was investigated from the beginning to end of the product use. This study investigated the exposure assessment of occupational exposure to biocidal products used in workplaces, multi-use facilities, and general facilities. Furthermore, this study provides valuable information on occupational exposure that may be useful to conduct accurate exposure assessment and to manage products used for quarantine in general facilities.

Use of Personal Care Products and Semen Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study in Young Danish Men

Personal care products (PCPs) may contain multiple chemicals capable of harming male reproductive function. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess aggregated PCP exposure and potential associations with measures of semen quality in young men. Participants (n = 1058, age 18–21) were sampled among young men from the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC). Upon recruitment in 2017–2019, each man answered an online questionnaire and provided a semen sample. Exposure to 12 common types of PCPs was derived from the questionnaire, and the extent of use and co-use was analyzed. We applied a negative binomial regression model to estimate percentage differences in semen parameters between low, medium and high PCP exposure groups. All participants were exposed to at least one PCP more than once a week, resulting in a mean number (SD) of 5.3 (2.0) PCPs currently used. Most participants (92%) were also exposed to fragranced products on a weekly basis. Little association was observed between aggregated exposure to PCPs and sperm concentration, total sperm count, semen volume, sperm motility and morphology. Despite prevalent use of multiple PCPs, we found little indication of adverse effects of aggregated overall or fragranced PCP exposure on semen quality.

Aggregate exposure assessment using cosmetic co-use scenarios: II. Application and validation for phthalates

Aggregate exposure assessments using co-use scenarios could provide more realistic estimations than single product exposure assessment. Co-use scenarios for cosmetic products were determined from a ranking of the frequency of occurrence of co-use patterns and the number of cosmetics used. We conducted aggregate exposure assessments using the co-use scenarios and validated the new methodology by comparing the results to those of a receptor-based aggregate exposure assessment. The aggregate exposures of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and diethyl phthalate (DEP) in cosmetics were estimated by co-use scenarios for cosmetics. The co-use scenario-based AED increased with the number of cosmetics in the co-use scenarios, and was higher in female and younger groups. The major contributors in females were facial cream for DEHP, nail polish for DnBP, and shower cologne or perfume for DEP. The major contributors in males were body lotion for DEHP, facial sunscreen for DnBP, and hair styling product for DEP. The distribution of the co-use scenario based AEDs displayed a similar trend to that of the receptor-based AEDs, with the 95th percentiles of the AED slightly underestimated in the co-use scenario. The applied methodology could provide reasonable aggregate exposures with relatively few resources required.

Consumers' perceptions of chemical household products and the associated risks

Accidents with chemical household products are prevalent worldwide and often involve young children. Previous research has shown that consumers use both analytical factors (e.g., warning symbols) and potentially misleading heuristics to evaluate the riskiness. However, it remains unclear whether consumers intuitively think of the specific risks of these products when handling them. We conducted an online survey with Swiss consumers (N = 1109) aiming to investigate consumer's spontaneous and prompted risk perception of chemical household products. First, we asked them about their free associations to laundry detergent, descaler, mold remover and essential oils. While participants were aware of the risks when prompted about them, they did not name them intuitively, but mainly thought of the possible uses and attributes of the product. Next, we examined prerequisites to safe handling of chemical household products. This included applied knowledge about the products, but also factors like perceived barriers to safe use. Finally, we assessed the predictors of perceived severity of accidents in order to estimate the potential behavioral changes that these predictors might elicit. For interventions, particular attention should be accorded to personal risk awareness and the perception of potential barriers, which were significantly related to the perceived severity of accidents.

Analysis of consumer behavior for the estimation of the exposure to chemicals in personal care products

In this study, the main objective was to implement an integrative modelling framework in order to support the prioritization and screening of chemicals present in personal care products (PCPs) regarding their potential to expose users across multiple possible pathways. Here, we implemented an exposure-based framework based on product intake fractions (PiFs) calculated using a two-compartment model reproducing the skin uptake and the competing volatilization of chemicals applied on skin during PCP use. The implemented framework enabled to simultaneously and comprehensively accommodate coupled chemical specific parameters (i.e. physical and chemical properties of the candidate chemicals), exposure information specific for product-chemical combinations, and survey data informing on consumer behavior. A case-study, based on the usage pattern data of 22 PCPs investigated among Swiss individuals (Garcia-Hidalgo et al., 2017a) and 113 candidate chemicals chosen for their suspected presence in the PCP categories of interest was defined to evaluate the applicability of the framework. Nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) and hierarchical clustering were subsequently applied to identify chemicals with the highest exposure potential and to highlight most relevant mixtures of chemicals on the basis of the specific usage patterns of the considered survey individuals.

A characterization of personal care product use among undergraduate female college students in South Carolina, USA

Some chemicals used in personal care products (PCPs) are associated with endocrine disruption, developmental abnormalities, and reproductive impairment. Previous studies have evaluated product use among various populations; however, information on college women, a population with a unique lifestyle, is scarce. The proportion and frequency of product use were measured using a self-administered survey among 138 female undergraduates. Respondents were predominately Caucasian (80.4%, reflecting the college's student body), and represented all years of study (freshman: 24.6%; sophomore: 30.4%; junior: 18.8%; senior: 26.1%). All respondents reported use of at least two PCPs within 24 h prior to sampling (maximum = 17; median = 8; IQR = 6-11). Compared with studies of pregnant and postpartum women, adult men, and Latina adolescents, college women surveyed reported significantly higher use of deodorant, conditioner, perfume, liquid soap, hand/body lotion, sunscreen, nail polish, eyeshadow, and lip balm (Chi Square, p < 0.05). More study is needed to understand the magnitude and racial disparities of PCP chemical exposure, but given the potential effects on reproduction and fertility, our findings of abundant and frequent product use among these reproductive-aged women highlight opportunities for intervention and information on endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC)-free alternative products and behaviors.

The association of urinary phosphorous-containing flame retardant metabolites and self-reported personal care and household product use among couples seeking fertility treatment

BACKGROUND

Phosphorous-containing flame-retardants (PFRs) are widely detected. They are used both as a flame retardant as well as plasticizer.

METHODS

A subset of 230 women and 229 men were recruited from Massachusetts General Hospital fertility clinic between 2005 and 2015. At each visit, participants completed a questionnaire of personal care product (PCP) and household product (HP) use. Metabolites [bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate, diphenyl phosphate (DPHP), isopropylphenyl phenyl phosphate (ip-PPP), tert-butylphenyl phenyl phosphate and bis(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate] were measured in urine (1-5 samples; n = 638 women, n = 335 men). Associations were assessed using generalized mixed models, adjusted for SG, age, BMI, smoking, education, and season.

RESULTS

In women, moisturizer (60%), nail polish remover (77%), and nail polish (134%) use were associated (p < 0.05) with an increase in DPHP concentrations, while ip-PPP concentrations increased 21-27% with conditioner, cosmetics, deodorant, and hair product use. Mouthwash and vinyl glove use were associated with a respective 31% and 92% increase in DPHP among men.

CONCLUSIONS

Our exploratory analysis suggests PFRs may be used as a plasticizer in consumer products, and nail polish use contributes to internal DPHP exposure. Further research is needed to understand how PFRs are used in these products and how it relates to exposure.

Occurrence and Concentration of Chemical Additives in Consumer Products in Korea

As the variety of chemicals used in consumer products (CPs) has increased, concerns about human health risk have grown accordingly. Even though restrictive guidelines and regulations have taken place to minimize the risks, human exposure to these chemicals and their eco-compatibility has remained a matter of greater scientific concern over the years. A major challenge in understanding the reality of the exposure is the lack of available information on the increasing number of ingredients and additives in the products. Even when ingredients of CPs formulations are identified on the product containers, the concentrations of the chemicals are rarely known to consumers. In the present study, an integrated target/suspect/non-target screening procedure using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) with stepwise identification workflow was used for the identification of known, suspect, and unknown chemicals in CPs including cosmetics, personal care products, and washing agents. The target screening was applied to identify and quantify isothiazolinones and phthalates. Among analyzed CPs, isothiazolinones and phthalates were found in 47% and in 24% of the samples, respectively. The highest concentrations were 518 mg/kg for benzisothiazolone, 7.1 mg/kg for methylisothiazolinone, 2.0 mg/kg for diethyl phthalate, and 21 mg/kg for dimethyl phthalate. Suspect and non-target analyses yielded six tentatively identified chemicals across the products including benzophenone, ricinine, iodocarb (IPBC), galaxolidone, triethanolamine, and 2-(2H-Benzotriazol-2-yl)-4, 6-bis (1-methyl-1-phenylethyl) phenol. Our results revealed that selected CPs consistently contain chemicals from multiple classes. Excessive use of these chemicals in daily life can increase the risk for human health and the environment.

Synthetic Phenolic Antioxidants in Personal Care Products in Toronto, Canada: Occurrence, Human Exposure, and Discharge via Greywater

Although synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs) are widely used in various personal care products (PCPs), little is known about their levels, composition profiles, human exposure, or environmental emissions. In this study, the occurrence of SPAs was evaluated in 15 categories of 214 PCPs collected in Toronto, Canada. Nine SPAs were detected in the PCPs, of which only 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT, < method quantification limit (MQL)-827 900 ng/g, mean: 35 602 ng/g, median: 249 ng/g) was observed with a detection frequency of >50%. When the 214 PCPs were separated into products labeled as containing BHT and those labeled as not containing BHT, the BHT-labeled PCPs (mean: 369 253 ng//g, median: 382 560 ng/g) contained significantly higher concentrations of BHT than the BHT-unlabeled PCPs (mean: 4960 ng/g, median: 199 ng/g) did (p < 0.01). Five transformation products (TPs) of BHT were also detected in the PCPs at low concentrations (∑TPs: < MQL to 19 014 ng/g, mean: 730 ng/g, median: < MQL) and detection frequencies (12.6-37.4%). Preliminary calculations found that dermal absorption via PCP use may be an important exposure pathway for BHT (mean: 565 879 ng/day median: 2988 ng/day), although this is a negligible exposure pathway for other SPAs. In addition, the estimated discharges of BHT (mean: 7852 g/day, median: 88 g/day) via greywater after PCP use were calculated, which represents a nonignorable source of BHT loading into wastewater treatment plants in Toronto (contributing 10%). To our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of human exposure to and discharge of SPAs via PCP use.

Linking Probabilistic Exposure and Pharmacokinetic Modeling To Assess the Cumulative Risk from the Bisphenols BPA, BPS, BPF, and BPAF for Europeans

The bisphenols S, F, and AF (BPS, BPF, and BPAF) are used to replace the endocrine disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA) while exerting estrogenic effects of comparable potency. We assessed the cumulative risk for the aforementioned BPs in Europe and compared the risk before and after the year 2011, which was when the first BPA restrictions became effective. For this, we probabilistically modeled external exposures from food, personal care products (PCPs), thermal paper, and dust (using the tools MCRA and PACEM for exposures from food and PCPs, respectively). We calculated internal concentrations of unconjugated BPs with substance-specific PBPK models and cumulated these concentrations normalized by estrogenic potency. The resulting mean internal cumulative exposures to unconjugated BPs were 3.8 and 2.1 ng/kg bw/day before and after restrictions, respectively. This decline was mainly caused by the replacement of BPA by BPS in thermal paper and the lower dermal uptake of BPS compared to BPA. However, the decline was not significant: the selected uncertainty intervals overlapped (P2.5-P97.5 uncertainty intervals of 2.7-4.9 and 1.3-6.3 ng/kg bw/day before and after restrictions, respectively). The upper uncertainty bounds for cumulative exposure were higher after restrictions, which reflects the larger uncertainty around exposures to substitutes compared to BPA.

Endoscopic findings and outcome in caustic ingestion of acidic and alkaline agents in adults: A retrospective analysis

Caustic ingestion in adults is a rare but potentially life-threatening problem. It remains controversial whether endoscopic findings and mortality differ between acid and alkali ingestion. We compared ingestion of these agents and evaluated prediction parameters for survival and complications.Adult patients who presented with caustic ingestion were analyzed from 2005 to 2016. Mucosal injury was graded endoscopically by Zargar's score. Age, gender, intent of ingestion, caustic agents, comorbidities, management, complications, and mortality were examined.Thirty-one patients met inclusion criteria and were divided into acid (n = 10) and alkali group (n = 21). Ingestion of alkali resulted in higher grades (≥III) of esophageal (56% vs 24%, P = .01) and stomach injuries (43% vs 13%, P = .05) and was mostly done with suicidal intent (76% vs 30%, P = .003). Patients in the alkali group received more often surgical interventions, mechanical ventilation and tracheotomy. Overall complications including Zargar's-score ≥ grade III, mediastinitis, and aspiration pneumonia were higher in alkali group but all showed no statistical significance (P = .73). Mortality (acid: 1 (10%), alkali: 4 (19%), P = .52), age, gender, comorbidities, and intensive care management did not differ significantly between the groups. Chronic renal failure and mediastinitis were promising prediction parameters for mortality but did not reach statistical significance. No independent risk factors for the development of esophageal stenosis were identified.Alkaline agents caused a higher mucosal injury severity and were more often used in suicidal intent. Mediastinitis and chronic renal failure might be potential prediction parameters for survival but need to be evaluated in larger studies.

Potential Health Risks of Chemicals in Car Colorant Products

Public concern regarding the use of products with chemicals has increased in Korea, following reports indicating that hazardous chemicals in products, such as disinfectants, can cause fatal lung disease. Despite the widespread use of car colorant products, little is known regarding their potential health risks. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential health risks of substances that exist in car colorant products. Thirteen car colorant products were purchased from the Korean market and 15 commonly used chemicals were analyzed. Exposure and risk assessments were conducted in two assessment stages (screening and refined). The analysis showed that all of the examined products contained toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. The maximum concentration of toluene was 52.5%, with a median concentration of 10.8%. Tier 1 (screening) assessment showed that four chemicals (toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, and 2-butoxyethanol) may pose health risks, but tier 2 (refined) assessment showed that these chemicals do not pose any risk. However, these chemicals were present in all of the examined products, and government regulations did not control their concentrations in these products. Therefore, we suggest that levels of toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene in car colorant products should be regulated to protect public health.

Consumer behaviour survey for assessing exposure from consumer products: a feasibility study

Evaluating chemical exposures from consumer products is an essential part of chemical safety assessments under REACH and may also be important to demonstrate compliance with consumer product legislation. Modelling of consumer exposure needs input information on the substance (e.g. vapour pressure), the product(s) containing the substance (e.g. concentration) and on consumer behaviour (e.g. use frequency and amount of product used). This feasibility study in Germany investigated methods for conducting a consumer survey in order to identify and retrieve information on frequency, duration, use amounts and use conditions for six example product types (four mixtures, two articles): hand dishwashing liquid, cockpit spray, fillers, paints and lacquers, shoes made of rubber or plastic, and ball-pens/pencils. Retrospective questionnaire methods (Consumer Product Questionnaire (CPQ), and Recall-Foresight Questionnaire (RFQ)) as well as protocol methods (written reporting by participants and video documentation) were used. A combination of retrospective questionnaire and written protocol methods was identified to provide valid information in a resource-efficient way. Relevant information, which can readily be used in exposure modelling, was obtained for all parameters and product types investigated. Based on the observations in this feasibility study, recommendations are given for designing a large consumer survey.

Inhalation exposure factors from the use of household products in South Korea

Exposure assessment, a fundamental element of the risk assessment process, is the estimation of what consumers may be exposed to by using household products. Reliable exposure factors were investigated to understand the pattern of household products usage. Six household product categories were selected and divided by application types. Two surveys were carried out and 6397 participants completed the web-based questionnaires, and laboratory evaluations were also conducted to measure the actual level of exposure (g/use). We focused more on inhalation exposure from products (and/or their application types) that affect indoor air such as diffusible types. To estimate actual exposure amounts, the time spent to apply the products was investigated from the beginning to end of the product use. For spraying type products, the consumer could be exposed to the maximum amount of used product while using the triggering action and pressing the button on the aerosol spray product, and during cleaning, adhesion, and coating target, consumer could be exposed continuously. For diffuser type products, exposure duration was the time for which consumers were exposed to the diffused product. The exposure amount for trigger and aerosol spray type products were measured using the time taken to trigger or spray the product and the mass generated from the same. This study provides valuable information on the individual exposure factors that may be useful to conduct accurate exposure assessments and to manage household products.

Aggregate consumer exposure to isothiazolinones via household care and personal care products: Probabilistic modelling and benzisothiazolinone risk assessment

Consumers regularly use household care and personal care products (HC&PCPs). Isothiazolinones are included in HC&PCPs as preservatives and are being held responsible for an epidemic rise in allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). The objective of this study was to assess the origin and extent of dermal exposure in order to evaluate the risk of ACD from isothiazolinones in HC&PCP. Individual-based aggregate dermal exposure to four isothiazolinones was estimated using the newly proposed Probabilistic Aggregated Consumer Exposure Model-Kinetic, Dermal (PACEM-KD) by combining the reported individual use patterns for HC&PCP in Switzerland (N = 669 (558 adults), ages 0-91) with isothiazolinone concentrations measured in products used by the individual person. PACEM-KD extends the original PACEM by considering exposure duration, product dilution and skin permeability. PACEM-KD-based higher-tier exposure on palms (99th percentile) was 15.4 ng/cm², 1.3 ng/cm², 0.9 ng/cm², and 0.08 ng/cm² for the isothiazolinones 1,2‑Benzisothiazol‑3‑(2H)‑one (BIT), 2‑Octyl‑3(2H)‑isothiazolinone (OIT), 2‑Methylisothiazolin‑3(2H)‑one (MI), and 5‑Chloro‑2‑methyl‑4‑isothiazolin‑3‑one (CMI), respectively. Major sources of exposure to BIT included all-purpose cleaners, dishwashing detergent, and kitchen cleaner, while exposure to OIT mainly stems from a fungicide. For MI, the main contributors were dishwashing detergent and all-purpose wet wipes, and for CMI all-purpose cleaner. A Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) for BIT using Sensitization Assessment Factors (SAFs) indicates that around 1% of the Swiss population is at risk to be sensitized by BIT in cosmetics and household chemicals. For isothiazolinones in general the presented higher-tier modelling approach suggests that household cleaners are currently more important sources of exposure than cosmetics.

Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Modeling of the Bisphenols BPA, BPS, BPF, and BPAF with New Experimental Metabolic Parameters: Comparing the Pharmacokinetic Behavior of BPA with Its Substitutes

BACKGROUND

The endocrine disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA) has been facing stricter regulations in recent years. BPA analogs, such as the bisphenols S, F, and AF (BPS, BPF, and BPAF) are increasingly used as replacement chemicals, although they were found to exert estrogenic effects similar to those of BPA. Research has shown that only the parent compounds have affinity to the estrogen receptors, suggesting that the pharmacokinetic behavior of bisphenols (BPs) can influence their potency.

OBJECTIVES

Our goal was to compare the pharmacokinetic behaviors of BPA, BPS, BPF, and BPAF for different age groups after environmentally relevant external exposures by taking into account substance-specific metabolism kinetics and partitioning behavior. This comparison allowed us to investigate the consequences of replacing BPA with other BPs.

METHODS

We readjusted a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for peroral exposure to BPA and extended it to include dermal exposure. We experimentally assessed hepatic and intestinal glucuronidation kinetics of BPS, BPF, and BPAF to parametrize the model for these BPs and calibrated the BPS model with a biomonitoring study. We used the PBPK models to compare resulting internal exposures and focused on females of childbearing age in a two-dimensional Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis.

RESULTS

Within environmentally relevant concentration ranges, BPAF and BPS were glucuronized at highest and lowest rates, respectively, in the intestine and the liver. The predominant routes of BPS and BPAF exposure were peroral and dermal exposure, respectively. The calibration of the BPS model with measured concentrations showed that enterohepatic recirculation may be important. Assuming equal external exposures, BPS exposure led to the highest internal concentrations of unconjugated BPs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that the replacement of BPA with structural analogs may not lower the risk for endocrine disruption. Exposure to both BPS and BPAF might be more critical than BPA exposure, if their respective estrogenic potencies are taken into account. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP2739.

Assessing exposure factors in the smartphone generation: Design and evaluation of a smartphone app that collects use patterns of cosmetics and household chemicals

Exposure factors form the basis of reliable exposure estimates. The growing demand for population-specific exposure factors for complex exposure models is challenged by continuously declining response rates in surveys: Current survey methods clearly need a boost by user-friendly and efficient technologies. We compared the performance of a smartphone app to a paper questionnaire based on a survey on exposure factors that offered the choice between both methods and based on an observational study that investigated the performance of both methods. The development costs for smartphone app and paper questionnaire were comparable with 15'000 and 13'500 US-$, respectively. The cost efficiency for the paper questionnaire was much better than for the app, but model calculations show that the cost efficiency of the app improves considerably with adequate promotion and for larger surveys, especially for those with regular repetitions. Barcode scanning of consumer products by app saved time and effort of the participants and enhanced reliability. The app was able to attract the attention of younger adults between 20 and 40 years old: Thus, the limited representativity for younger age groups that sometimes is observed for paper-based surveys may be enhanced by including the option to use an app in a mixed-mode survey.

Consumption and exposure assessment to toothpaste in French families

The aim of the study was to assess the consumption and the exposure to toothpaste in French families leaving the consumers free to use their own product at home according to their habits. Consumption data were collected on 104 families. 206 adults (103 women and 103 men) and 195 children aged 2-17 participated in the study. Differences in toothpaste consumption depending on gender and on age were highlighted. As an example, frequency data were higher in adult women (2.0 day^-1 on average) than in adult men (1.8 day^-1 on average); amount per use data were higher in adult men (1.2 g on average) than in adult women (0.9 g on average). The frequency of use and the amount of toothpaste used per application increased with age. The exposure to toothpaste decreased with age. Children aged 2-6 were the most exposed to toothpaste with a P95 value equal to 8.2 mg/kg bw/day. Adult's P95 exposure value was equal to 2.8 mg/kg bw/day. Exposure values were in the same order of magnitude for both genders in children and in adults. These new data will be useful for safety assessors, especially children data which remain scarce.

Determining Exposure Factors of Anti-Fogging, Dye, Disinfectant, Repellent, and Preservative Products in Korea

Reliable exposure factors are essential to determine health risks posed by chemicals in consumer products. We analyzed five risk-concerned product categories (anti-fogging, dye, disinfectant, repellent, and preservative products) for 13 products (three car anti-fogging products, a lens anti-fogging product, two car dye products, two drain disinfectants, an air conditioner disinfectant, a chlorine-based disinfectant, a fabric repellent, an insect repellent for food, and a wood preservative) considered to be of high risk in order to determine exposure factors via web surveys and estimation of amount of product. Among the 3000 participants (1482 (49%) men) aged ≥19 years, drain disinfectants were used most frequently (38.2%); the rate of usage of the other products ranged between 1.1–24.0%. The usage rates for the consumer products differed by sex, age, income, and education. Some consumer products such as car and lens anti-fogging products, chlorine-based disinfectants, fabric repellents, and drain disinfectants were regularly used more than once a month, while car dye products, air conditioner disinfectants, insect repellents for food, and wood preservatives were not regularly used owing to the specific product purposes and seasonal needs. Our results could be used for managing or controlling chemical substances in consumer products and conducting accurate exposure assessments.

Probabilistic exposure assessment to face and oral care cosmetic products by the French population

Cosmetic exposure data for face and mouth are limited in Europe. The aim of the study was to assess the exposure to face cosmetics using recent French consumption data (Ficheux et al., 2016b, 2015). Exposure was assessed using a probabilistic method for thirty one face products from four lines of products: cleanser, care, make-up and make-up remover products and two oral care products. Probabilistic exposure was assessed for different subpopulation according to sex and age in adults and children. Pregnant women were also studied. The levels of exposure to moisturizing cream, lip balm, mascara, eyeliner, cream foundation, toothpaste and mouthwash were higher than the values currently used by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). Exposure values found for eye shadow, lipstick, lotion and milk (make-up remover) were lower than SCCS values. These new French exposure values will be useful for safety assessors and for safety agencies in order to protect the general population and the at risk populations.

Occurrence and concentrations of isothiazolinones in detergents and cosmetics in Switzerland

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the frequency of contact allergy to isothiazolinones has increased alarmingly in Europe, but only limited data are available on concentrations of isothiazolinones in consumer products.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the current frequency of isothiazolinones [methylisothiazolinone (MI), methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), benzisothiazolinone (BIT), and octylisothiazolinone (OIT)] in a wide array of detergents and cosmetics relevant for the Swiss population.

METHODS

By means of a market survey, the occurrence of isothiazolinones was investigated in 1948 consumer products. Of these, 88 products were analysed by liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry after ultrasonic extraction.

RESULTS

Only 7.6% of all cosmetics contained isothiazolinones, but the prevalence in detergents was much higher (42.9%). The measured concentration ranges in detergents were 4.3–10, 3.5–279, 3.8–186 and 7.9 ppm (one product only) for MCI, MI, BIT, and OIT, respectively [corrected]. For cosmetics, these were 1.3-133 and 4.8 ppm (one product only) for MI and MCI, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study has shown that high concentrations of isothiazolinones (including MI) can be found in a large variety of products, in particular in detergents. Therefore, the safe use of these preservatives should be re-evaluated by including detergents in the exposure assessment.