Analysis of Consumer Exposure to Phthalates and Parabens from Personal Care Products in Urban Centres in Abuja

Phthalates and parabens are widely used as plasticisers and preservatives in personal care products but are classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals raising concerns about consumer health risks from daily dermal exposure. This study analyses the concentrations of selected phthalates and parabens in commonly used personal care products including body lotions, deodorants, hair creams, and face washes available in retail outlets in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, and estimates consumer exposure through a structured usage survey. Thirty product samples were extracted using acetonitrile and analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Compounds targeted include diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Consumer exposure was estimated using body surface area models incorporating product-specific usage patterns from 200 survey respondents. Results reveal that phthalates were detected in 23 of 30 products, with diethyl phthalate predominating. Parabens were detected in 27 products, with methylparaben and propylparaben being most common. Exposure estimates for heavy users of body lotion and hair creams approached or exceeded the European Chemical Agency derived no-effect level for dibutyl phthalate. The study recommends NAFDAC-mandated testing for phthalates and parabens in personal care products, enhanced labelling transparency, and consumer education campaigns targeting frequent product users. Keywords: phthalates, parabens, personal care products, endocrine disruptors, Abuja