Phthalates: Safe Sex Toys

What are phthalates?

Phthalates are used as a plasticizer, an additive used to increase the flexibility and/or durability of a substance.  Plasticizers make the difference between hard plastic and the plastic involved in a rubber duck, shower curtains, and many other similar soft plastics. Phthalates are also found in cosmetics, food and many beauty products. 

Why does it matter?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “A study by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) showed that DEHP [a form of phthalate] administered orally increased the incidence of liver tumors in rats and mice. “ As a result the EPA classified DEHP as a Group B2, probable human carcinogen.

Canada forbids more than .01% of phthalates in child care articles in 1999 The European Union banned amounts of more than .01% of three forms of phthalates in children’s toys in 2005. In 2008, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission forbid more than .01% of six forms of phthalates in children’s toys or child care articles. 

However, infants and toddlers are not the only higher risk group involved with phthalates.  Aside from use in food, phthalates are also used in many cosmetics, beauty products and many plastic vibrators or dildos. The Danish Health Institute concluded health risks are minimal but may not be among breast feeding or pregnant women.

 Additionally, high phthalate exposure is associated with disruption in the endocrine systems, which is thought to be associated with breast cancer.   The endocrine system is responsible for secreting hormones, including secretion of hormones to the ovaries, mammary glands, liver and testes. In 2005 Dr. Shanna Swan studied the hypothesis that phthalates may act as endocrine system disruption and found a correlation between mothers with the largest levels of phthalates in their urine and the shortest anogenital distance infants. (Anogenital is the distance between boy’s genitals and their anus.)

 

The Lelo Soraya uses medical grade silicone.

Studies regarding phthalates and endocrine disruption are still in early stages. None of this evidence is definitive of a certain outcome, however, I won't sell what I won't use, and as a result, I only feel comfortable selling phthalate-free sex toys. Other stores that do the same are Good Vibrations and Smitten Kitten. 

nJoy products are made of medical grade stainless steel.

If you are unsure of what contains phthalates, purchase toys made from medical grade silicone, glass or steel, which are also very easy to clean!