Personal Care Chemicals Raise Preterm Birth Risk
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/7/2026
The chemicals in your soap, sunscreen, and cosmetics are linked to preterm birth. And the risk isn't equal for everyone.
Phenol Mixtures and Preterm Birth
A 2026 study in Int J Hyg Environ Health followed 292 pregnant women and measured urinary levels of environmental phenols: parabens, benzophenones (from sunscreen), triclosan, BPA, and BPS. All common ingredients in personal care products.
The mixture of these chemicals was linked to increased preterm birth risk, but the association was found specifically in non-Hispanic Black participants, not in non-Hispanic white participants.
Mixtures Matter More Than Individual Chemicals
No single chemical drove the risk on its own. But benzophenone-3 (a sunscreen ingredient) and triclosan (an antibacterial agent) were the top contributors to the mixture effect. The risk appeared at the 60th to 80th percentile of exposure, not just at extreme levels.
Why Racial Differences Exist
Differences in product use, chemical formulations marketed to different communities, and biological susceptibility may all play a role. Black women in the US are already disproportionately affected by preterm birth. Chemical exposure is adding to that burden.
What Expecting Mothers Can Do
Check personal care products for parabens, triclosan, and benzophenones. Choose "fragrance-free" and paraben-free options. Skip antibacterial soaps. And switch to non-toxic baby products early in pregnancy.
Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.