Research has shown that there are certain chemicals found in shampoo and other commonly used cosmetics that can raise a person’s risk of diabetes by nearly two-thirds.
The study found that those who had higher levels of phthalates in their urine were up to 63 per cent more likely to develop the metabolic disease.
They’re placed in these products because they improve the durability of plastics and are widely used in personal care products.
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Found in children's toys, food and beverage packaging, these phthalates are even added to fragrances to help the scent last longer on the skin.
Known as EDRs (endocrine disrupting chemicals), they mimic oestrogen and have been linked to breast and ovarian cancer, as well as early menopause.
Speaking about the findings, lead author Dr Sung Kyun Park, of the University of Michigan, said: "Our research found phthalates may contribute to a higher incidence of diabetes in women - especially white women.
"People are exposed to phthalates daily increasing their risk of several metabolic diseases. It's important we address EDCs now as they are harmful to human health."
They may also change how we store fat, which in some cases can lead to obesity, while some phthalates have been found to cause infertility.
One trial also found women are more likely to give birth prematurely if they have high levels of phthalates in their bloodstream before conception.
An analysis of 1,308 women across the US showed above average concentrations raised incidence of type 2 diabetes by 30 to 63 per cent. The form is linked to unhealthy lifestyles. About five per cent of participants developed it over the six-year period.
Dr Park went on to say: "Our research is a step in the right direction towards better understanding phthalates' effect on metabolic diseases, but further investigation is needed."
The additives, used during the manufacturing of plastic, have been detected in numerous everyday products ranging from bottled water to floorboards.
Some have already been banned due to concerns about their safety. Previous studies have largely been carried out on rodents.
The study was peer-reviewed for publication in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
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