Toilet Paper Allergy: A study conducted in 2023 found PFAS, i.e., per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, in 21 brands of toilet paper from around the world.

Is it safe to use toilet paper?

Is Toilet Paper Safe To Use? Health Risks: Toilet paper has become a part of everyday life today, but is its use completely safe for everyone? Many things have been coming to the fore from time to time regarding this. Some research has found such chemicals in toilet paper, about which concerns have been raised regarding their health effects. However, experts say that in general there is not enough evidence to show that toilet paper poses any major health risk to any person. Still, its use can cause problems like itching, burning and allergies in some people.

Some worrying chemicals found in toilet paper

Concerns have been raised about certain chemicals found in toilet paper. A 2023 study found PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals," in 21 toilet paper brands worldwide. Their presence was documented in the study. PFAS exposure has been linked to reproductive problems in women, developmental difficulties in children, and an increased risk of certain cancers. However, the actual health effects of exposure to these chemicals through toilet paper are not yet fully clear.

A 2019 study in Ghana also found traces of phthalates in toilet paper. Phthalates are chemicals that can affect the body's hormonal system. The same study also found polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and certain semi-volatile chlorinated organic compounds (SCH) in toilet paper. These chemicals have been linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

Questions also arose regarding recycled toilet paper.

Some research also recommends caution with toilet paper made from recycled paper. This is because such paper may contain materials like old newspapers or recycled cash register receipts. These materials can leach chemicals like BPA, or bisphenol A, into the toilet paper. Research has linked exposure to BPA with several health effects, including reproductive problems and cardiovascular disease. However, the amount of BPA found in toilet paper is generally low, and its actual health effects are not yet fully clear.

Use on sensitive areas increases anxiety

One reason for concern about the chemicals in toilet paper is that it is used on very sensitive parts of the body. Experts say the skin around the genitals and anus is thinner and more sensitive than other parts of the body. These areas have a mucosal surface, which is thinner, moister, and more sensitive. This is why certain chemicals can be absorbed more easily into the body.

However, experts also say that toilet paper is not the biggest source of exposure to toxic substances for a person. Exposure through food, packaging, cleaning products, and clothing may be more significant in many cases.

Not every toilet paper poses a risk of disease.

It's important to understand one important point here. It's not correct to directly blame toilet paper for serious illnesses. According to experts, the current research doesn't prove that using regular toilet paper poses any significant health risks.

Experts say that the levels of PFAS and other industrial chemicals in everyday products like toilet paper are generally very low, and there's no clear evidence linking them directly to cancer. They also note that the modern bleaching process used in toilet paper today is significantly different from that in the past, resulting in significantly lower levels of potentially harmful substances. According to Dr. Alok A. Khorana, a professor at Case Western Reserve University, exposure to toxic substances from toilet paper is likely much lower than from food and water. However, he says further research is needed on this topic.

Fragrances and colored toilet paper can cause irritation.

A more common problem caused by toilet paper can be skin irritation. According to New York dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman, she sees patients who experience itching and burning after using toilet paper. People often mistake it for a yeast infection or eczema, but the toilet paper itself may be the source of the problem. According to allergist and immunologist Dr. Megan W. Shepherd, some toilet paper contains ingredients like fragrances and dyes, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Certain preservatives in flushable wipes can also trigger skin allergies.

Which toilet paper is better to choose?

If you experience frequent itching, burning, or redness after using toilet paper, you should consider the type. Experts suggest that plain, unscented, and undyed toilet paper may be a better option. When purchasing, look for terms like unscented, dye-free, or chlorine-free on packaging. Dr. Kopelman says avoiding unnecessary chemicals in toilet paper can be helpful for those with sensitive skin.