Environmental Toxins

Chemicals in plastics and other products seem harmless, but mounting evidence links them to health problems — and Washington lacks the power to protect us

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Oxybenzone

plastic hazards home danger toxic plastics

Illustration by Jason Lee for TIME

What It Is: A chemical used in cosmetics

Found In: Sunscreens, lip balm, moisturizers

Health Hazards: Linked to hormone disruption and low-birthweight babies

What You Should Know: About 97% of Americans have the compound in their urine, but current exposure levels have been deemed safe

See the top 10 scientific discoveries of 2008.

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