Cosmetics and personal care products contain a mix of chemicals. Researchers are working to better understand if any affect human health. Some of the chemicals are classified as endocrine disrupting, which means they may interfere with the body’s hormones and cause adverse health effects.

NIEHS scientists created a systematic evidence map that can guide future studies on the effects of chemicals in personal care products. BY JANELLE WEAVER NIEHS researchers have developed a new tool called a systematic evidence map that enables more informed decision-making regarding the links between personal care products and early puberty. The findings were published in the November issue of Environment International. “Researchers and regulators can use the map to identify gaps in data and existing scientific studies, which will help target and prioritize future research and funding,” said lead author Kyla Taylor, Ph.D., a health scientist in the Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT) at NIEHS. The map provides a foundation to inform and direct new approaches for evaluating evidence about exposure to chemicals in personal care products and puberty-related health effects.