Think twice before you powder your nose. A cosmetics industry review panel this week approved continued use of chemicals that critics have linked to birth defects in animals. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Panel said that three phthalates, which are used to make fragrances last longer, posed no threat to human health. Nail polish, hair spray, deodorant, and perfume often contain the chemicals. Health advocates, meanwhile, said the chemicals may lead to abnormalities of the male reproductive organs.
