New Study Warns: Cosmetics Harm Korean Teens Through Chemical Exposure

A new study reveals harmful chemicals in cosmetics may pose serious health risks to Korean teenagers. Specifically, cosmetics harm Korean teens through endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in personal care products used daily.

Health Risks Linked to Cosmetics and EDC Exposure

Researchers found EDCs in the urine of female Korean adolescents who used skincare and cosmetic products regularly. These chemicals include parabens and benzophenones, which disrupt hormones and affect reproductive health. Parabens often appear in fluid-based cosmetics, while benzophenones are common in sunscreens for UV protection.

Moreover, frequent product use raised paraben levels in the body. However, reduced usage showed an immediate decrease in chemical exposure levels. This highlights a clear connection between daily cosmetics use and EDC presence in teenagers.

Cosmetics Harm Korean Teens: A Growing Public Health Concern

According to researchers, cosmetics harm Korean teens by impacting hormone levels, menstruation cycles, and overall reproductive development. These chemicals may also increase the risk of hormone-related cancers and interfere with neurodevelopment. As teens experience rapid growth, both mentally and physically, such exposure may lead to lasting health consequences.

The study published in Environmental Research emphasizes the vulnerability of adolescent girls. Furthermore, the researchers highlight the urgent need for targeted regulations and education to minimize these health threats.

Regulatory Action and Scientific Recommendations

Although prior studies explored EDC effects on adults, this research focuses on young people. Clearly, teenagers face distinct risks that demand immediate policy attention. The authors call for broader studies and stricter safety measures, particularly for products used by young consumers.

Additionally, the European Commission recently proposed REACH Regulation updates to tighten chemical safety rules for cosmetics. Earlier delays in banning harmful ingredients drew criticism from the European Environmental Bureau. Now, regulatory pressure increases worldwide to protect adolescent users from these dangerous substances.

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