Live Longer by Lathering Less

Showering too much is a problem that too many people have, but if you do like to over-shower you should stop using shampoo. Turns out that a popular and frequently used chemical in shampoos, phthalates, is bad for your longevity. Yes, shampooing too much can shorten life. Don’t fret! There’s an easy solution of just switching to buying unscented shampoo.

The chemical class is so common that phthalates are nicknamed “everywhere chemicals.” The chemicals pose a threat if inhaled or ingested, so children are at an especially high risk of exposure as they tend to put their hands in their mouths.

In an email to Insider, Trasande shared a list of tips for keeping phthalates out of your home:

Use unscented lotions and laundry detergents.
Use cleaning supplies without scents.
Use glass, stainless steel, ceramic, or wood to hold and store foods.
Buy fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables instead of canned and processed versions.
Avoid air fresheners and all plastics labeled as No. 3, No. 6, and No. 7.
Avoid microwaving and machine dishwashing plastics.

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