Identifying Potential Chemicals of Concern in Children's Products in a Regulatory Context: A Systematic Evidence Mapping Approach.

Summary

Using systematic evidence mapping across four databases, the authors cataloged 206 chemicals of concern in children’s products, yielding 1,528 product-chemical combinations. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals were frequently reported, notably phthalates in plastic toys, parabens in creams/lotions, and bisphenols in baby bottles and teethers.

Key Findings

• Identified 206 chemicals of potential concern in children’s products, with 1,528 distinct product-chemical combinations.
• Phthalates (plastic toys), parabens (children’s creams/lotions), and bisphenols (baby bottles/teethers) were the most frequent combinations of concern.
• Evidence points to widespread endocrine-disruptor presence across multiple product categories, highlighting regulatory gaps.

Clinical Implications

Pediatric clinicians and dermatologists can counsel families about cumulative exposures from toys and topical products, prompting preference for formulations free of phthalates, parabens, and bisphenols. Policymakers can prioritize surveillance and restriction of these classes in child-facing cosmetics and devices.

Limitations

• Evidence mapping does not quantify exposure levels or risk; no meta-analysis was performed
• Publication bias and non-uniform ingredient disclosure may skew the product-chemical landscape

Future Directions

Link mapped chemicals to exposure biomarkers and health outcomes in longitudinal cohorts; validate ingredient disclosure with analytical testing; develop prioritized regulatory action lists for child-facing cosmetics.