Phthalates are present in countless cosmetic, plastic, and cleaning products but are rarely disclosed on product labels. While we can’t see, taste, or smell them, these plasticizers continue to pollute the air we inhale every day. Direct absorption through the skin means that you are more likely to contaminate your body and compromise overall health.
This article explains everything about phthalates in cosmetics and potential risks and offers practical alternative solutions.
What Are Phthalates?
Phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates) are synthetic chemicals used in cosmetics, cleaning products, air fresheners, food packaging, inflatable toys, medical tubing, and plastics (PVC or vinyl). They enhance the product’s flexibility, durability, and transparency.
These odorless, colorless, oily liquids are also known as “plasticizers” because they make plastics softer and more pliable. Since they are not chemically bound to plastic, they often migrate and contaminate the indoor dust, air, and food.
The European Union has banned them from cosmetics due to their toxicity and endocrine-disrupting properties. Despite the proven detriment to human health, phthalates remain prevalent in paint, plastics, nail polish, personal care products, and fragrances across the United States.
How Are Phthalates Used in Cosmetics?
Phthalates are used as plasticizers, solvents, and stabilizers in fragrances, makeup, skin care, nail products, hair sprays, aftershave lotions, shampoos, sunscreen, and cleansers.
They prolong shelf life by making products more flexible, durable, and crack-resistant. They also enhance texture to maintain smooth application.
Are Phthalates in Cosmetics Harmful?
Phthalates are listed as an endocrine-disrupting, hormone-mimicking ingredient of high concern in the European Union. They interfere with hormone signaling and can destabilize hormonal balance, provoking a range of health problems.
Research has shown that they display estrogen-like behavior, which may cause early onset of breast development, problems with ovulation, pregnancy loss, and endometriosis. However, more scientific evidence is needed to confirm and clarify these connections.
Does the FDA Regulate the Use of Phthalates in Cosmetics?
Cosmetic products and ingredients (except color additives) do not require FDA approval before they go on the market, but the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA) requires an ingredient declaration for all cosmetic products sold in retail. Nevertheless, FDA regulations do not require the listing of individual ingredients labeled as “fragrance” or “flavor,” meaning that phthalates can be added to fragrances without full disclosure to consumers.
For your safety, it is best to not purchase cosmetics with “fragrance” or “flavor” on the ingredient label to avoid phthalate-containing products.
Risks of Phthalate Exposure
Phthalates can enter the body through inhalation (indoor dust and air), ingestion (food packaging), and skin absorption (cosmetics). Daily contact can worsen existing medical conditions and compromise overall health.
Regular exposure to phthalates can trigger or worsen the following health problems:
- Endocrine disruption
- Hormonal imbalance
- Infertility
- Reduced testosterone in women
- Low sex drive
- Impaired reproductive development
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Inflammation
- Skin inflammation
- Compromised skin flora
- Thyroid conditions
- Metabolic disorder
- Menopausal hot flashes
- Weakened immunity
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular issues
- Respiratory problems
- Developmental issues
- Learning attention disorder
- Behavior difficulties in children
- Early puberty
- Risk of low birth weight
- Increased risk of cancer
Who Is Most at Risk from Phthalates?
The CDC’s National Biomonitoring Program tested urine samples from over 2,500 U.S. citizens aged six and older and found phthalate metabolites of DEP (diethylphthalate) in every sample, while DBP (dibutylphthalate) metabolites were present in 99% of them.
Although most people have small amounts of phthalates in their bodies, certain groups face higher risk:
- Pregnant women – Studies show that phthalate exposure during pregnancy can affect the endocrine system and reach the fetus through the bloodstream, disrupting its development, causing pregnancy loss, and leading to potential genital defects and infertility in boys.
- Babies and toddlers - The American Academy of Pediatrics published an article stating that babies who came into contact with infant care products like shampoos, lotions, and powders had higher levels of phthalate byproducts in their urine.
- Teenagers – During puberty, hormone levels fluctuate constantly, and the body undergoes rapid development, making teenagers more vulnerable to the harmful effects of phthalates.
- Women and women of color – Women are a high-risk group because they use more phthalate-containing personal care products than men. Non-Hispanic Black females are at the highest risk due to frequent and prolonged use of cosmetic products marketed specifically to women of color.
- Patients with kidney disease or hemophilia - Kidney dialysis and blood transfusions often use phthalate-containing IV tubing and medical supplies, increasing the exposure to these damaging chemicals.
- Workers – You may be more exposed to phthalates if you work in plastics processing, painting, or printing.
How to Identify Phthalates in Cosmetics?
Fragrance ingredients are considered a trade secret in the U.S. and often remain undisclosed. Learning to identify the presence of phthalates in cosmetics is essential until stricter FDA regulations are in place.
To do so, check the label for “fragrance,” “parfum,” “scent,” or the following ingredients:
| Acronym | Full phthalate name | Found in cosmetics |
| DEP | Diethylphthalate | Often added to scented products as an “undisclosed fragrance,” meaning it will not be listed separately on the ingredient list. According to the FDA, this is the only phthalate still commonly used in cosmetics. |
| DBP | Dibutylphthalate | Makes the nail polish chip-resistant and prevents cracking. The EU lists it as an endocrine-disrupting compound of high concern. |
| DEHP | Di-2-ethylhexylphthalate | Found in eyelash glue and other consumer products. |
| DMP | Dimethyl phthalate | Found in hair sprays to reduce stiffness by creating a flexible coating on the hair. |
In addition to understanding these phthalate acronyms, research the brand before purchasing a new product. Choose chemical-free cosmetic brands fully committed to clean packaging and microbiome-friendly formulations, like Vibrant.
Note: Read our articles about paraben-free and silicone-free cosmetics.
Alternatives to Phthalates in Cosmetics
It is impossible to eliminate these toxic chemicals from everyday life, but you can minimize exposure by choosing safe, phthalate-free cosmetics.
Plastics manufacturers have replaced phthalates with safer chemical compounds like DINCH (1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester), while beauty brands turn to natural, plant-based, and biodegradable substitutes, such as:
- Natural oils and waxes – Coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax strengthen the skin barrier by forming a protective film on the top skin layer.
- Essential oils – Lavender, tea tree oil, rosemary, and citrus extracts add freshness and fragrance without compromising skin health.
- Natural fragrances – Jasmine, lavender, and citrus extracts are natural scents used in body lotions, moisturizers, and body mists.
- Plant-based plasticizers – Castor oil and vegetable glycerin are added to nailcare products to reduce brittleness and increase softness.
- Citrates – Triethyl citrate is added to fragrances, nail polishes, hair, and skincare products to enhance flexibility, fluidity, and texture.
Conclusion
Many everyday cosmetic products contain hidden phthalates, including soaps, shampoos, cleansers, nail polishes, hand creams, and sunscreen. Despite their potential health risks, these toxic chemicals are frequently omitted from ingredient lists and remain largely overlooked by the FDA.
Choosing clean, organic alternatives is crucial for reducing exposure. Our Vibrant Skin experts are here to help you make smarter choices with chemical-free skincare products.
