The Institute of Environmental Diagnosis and Water Studies (IDAEA-CSIC) has detected, for the first time, up to 11 new chemical compounds in the umbilical cord blood of 69 newborn babies. Among them are several ultraviolet (UV) filters used in the creation of sunscreens and parabens widely used in cosmetics.
The main route of exposure to these compounds is by dermal contact, although they can also enter the human body through contaminated food or water, or by inhalation of air.