Phthalates

Q: Are phthalates harmful to humans?

Yes, certain phthalates are considered harmful due to their potential effects on human health, including endocrine disruption and reproductive issues.

Q: Why are phthalates used in cosmetics?

Phthalates are used in cosmetics to make products more pliable and to help fragrances last longer. They also help formula adhesion in products like nail polish.

Q: How can I avoid phthalates in products?

To avoid phthalates, look for products labeled as 'phthalate-free' and check ingredient lists for phthalate aliases. Opt for natural or organic certified products.

Q: Are all phthalates banned in cosmetics?

No, not all phthalates are banned. Some have restrictions depending on the region, such as DEHP and DBP, which are banned in the European Union from use in certain products.

Synonyms: Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) +2

Safer alternative: Diethyl Phthalate (DEP)

Toxicity Score

8 /10

Avoid

Primary Concern

endocrine disruption

Found In

Nail Polish, Fragrances, Hair Spray

Persona Risk

High Risk for Growing Family

Put Simply

Phthalates are used to make products like nail polish and hair spray more flexible and long-lasting. The concern is that they might interfere with your hormones, which could affect things like reproduction and development, especially in males. Because of these potential health risks, some forms of phthalates are restricted in personal care products.

Clinical Summary

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break, often found in consumer products including cosmetics. Exposure to certain phthalates has been linked to endocrine disruption, which can lead to reproductive and developmental issues, particularly in males. Regulatory bodies have restricted the use of some phthalates in personal care products due to these potential health risks.

Identified Health Risks

endocrine disruption

reproductive toxicity

What This Score Means

Avoid. This ingredient scores 8/10 on our toxicity scale. Strong clinical evidence links it to serious health concerns. We recommend swapping any product containing this ingredient.

Regulatory Status

Cross-referenced safety assessments from regulatory bodies

Organization

Rating

Concern

EWG

8/10

Endocrine disruption

ECHA

Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC)

Reproductive toxicity

Also Listed On Labels As

Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) Dimethyl phthalate (DMP) Diisononyl phthalate (DINP)

Risk by Health Profile

Growing Family High Risk

Phthalates have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues, particularly in children and pregnant women.

Hormone & Endocrine High Risk

These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors affecting hormone levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are phthalates harmful to humans?

Why are phthalates used in cosmetics?

How can I avoid phthalates in products?

Are all phthalates banned in cosmetics?

Sources & Citations

[1]
PubMed Central (PMID: 23175943)
[2]
EWG Skin Deep
[3]
ECHA

Don’t Settle

Swap This For…

Products verified free from Phthalates. Uses Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) instead.

Sukin

Sukin Natural Balance Shampoo

LowTox Approved

Ecostore

Ecostore Baby Body Wash

LowTox Approved

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