Study Links Cosmetics to Early Puberty in Girls

A recent study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has highlighted health risks from endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in beauty products, linking them to earlier onset of puberty in girls. The research examined 10,000 environmental compounds and identified substances such as musk ambrette and cholinergic agonists that can interfere with hormonal balance. Early puberty has been associated with various health risks including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and psychological issues. The trend of earlier menstruation among girls, particularly since the 1990s, coincides with increased use of cosmetics by younger children. While musk ambrette is restricted in some regions, it remains present in products marketed to young girls. Experts emphasize the need for further research and advise parents to scrutinize product ingredients carefully.