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Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a commonly used plasticizer. It is also used as an additive to adhesives or printing inks. It is soluble in various organic solvents, e.g. in alcohol, ether and benzene. DBP is also used as an ectoparasiticide. 1.where used? The use of this substance in cosmetics, including nail polishes ,in children's toys since,In nail products and some hair sprays. Toxic to reproduction and may interfere with hormone function. Harmful to fish and other wildlife. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) has a wide variety of manufacturing applications and is used in both commercial and consumer products. Results of animal reproductive toxicity and teratogenicity animal studies have not been consistent in identifying DBP as a reproductive toxicant. Expert reviews for its use in consumer products have consistently concluded that it is not a reproductive risk to consumers. Results from a subungual penetration study of 100% fluid DBP applied to human fingernails showed levels of penetration at the limits of chemical detection. Even if DBP penetrated the human fingernail, its rapid metabolism by the human body would prevent its having any toxic reproductive effects. Furthermore, DBP functions as a plasticizer in consumer products such as cosmetic nail products (nail polish, basecoats, topcoats, nail hardeners), resulting in its becoming unavailable for subungual penetration seconds after application of the cosmetic nail product since it is then trapped in the rapidly forming coating. 2.Why used? Dibutyl phthalate or DBP is used mainly in nail products as a solvent for dyes and as a plasticizer that prevents nail polishes from becoming brittle. Phthalates are found in some nail polishes and hair sprays, and are commonly hidden on ingredient labels under the term “fragrance”. Fragrance recipes are considered trade secrets, so manufacturers are not required to disclose fragrance chemicals in the list of ingredients. DBP is also commonly used in polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC) to render it flexible. 3.Health and Environmental Hazards DBP is absorbed through the skin. It can enhance the capacity of other chemicals to cause genetic mutations, although it has not been shown to be a mutagen itself. In laboratory experiments, it has been shown to cause developmental defects, changes in the testes and prostate, and reduced sperm counts. The European Union classifies DBP as a suspected endocrine disruptor on the basis of evidence that it interferes with hormone function, and as reproductive toxic on the basis that it may cause harm to the unborn child and impair fertility. Health Canada notes evidence suggesting that exposure to phthalates may cause health effects such as liver and kidney failure in young children when products containing phthalates are sucked or chewed for extended periods. The European Union classifies DBP as very toxic to aquatic organisms. Under the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic, DBP is listed as a Chemical for Priority Action. 4.Related Ingredients Other phthalates are widely used as fragrance ingredients in cosmetics – in particular diethyl phthalate (DEP). DEP is suspected of interfering with hormone function (endocrine disruption), causing reproductive and developmental problems among other health effects. Fragrance recipes are considered tradesecrets, so manufacturers are not required to disclose specific fragrance chemicals. The best bet to avoid phthalates in cosmetics is to opt for products that do not list “parfum” or “fragrance” as aningredient. 5.Regulatory Status Health Canada recently announced regulations banning six phthalates (including DBP) in soft vinyl children’s toys and child care articles, but its use in cosmetics is not restricted. International regulations are stronger. The European Union bans DBP in cosmetics, as well as in childcarearticles and toys. The use of this substance in cosmetics, including nail polishes, is banned in the European Union under Directive.
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