Are Phthalates Harmful in Skincare and Cosmetics?
Last updated: 2026-06-25
Phthalates are one of the most-asked-about "ingredients to avoid" in skincare. The honest answer is nuanced: they're not an acute danger in any one product, but there are good reasons to reduce your overall exposure. Here's what they are, what the concern actually is, and how to avoid them.
What are phthalates and why are they in cosmetics?
Phthalates are a family of chemicals used as plasticisers (to make materials flexible) and, in cosmetics, mainly to hold fragrance and help products spread. They commonly hide inside the catch-all label term "fragrance" or "parfum," which is exactly why they're so easy to miss — a single "fragrance" entry can legally contain dozens of undisclosed components, phthalates among them.
Are phthalates actually harmful?
The concern is that some phthalates can act as endocrine disruptors — they can interfere with the body's hormone signalling. Research has linked higher exposure to effects on reproductive and developmental health, and they can be absorbed through the skin. Two points of balance:
- The dose in a single cosmetic is small, and regulators in the UK and EU restrict the most concerning phthalates in cosmetics.
- The bigger issue is cumulative exposure from many products and sources over time, which is why reducing avoidable exposure is sensible — especially during pregnancy.
How do I avoid phthalates in my skincare?
- Look for "phthalate-free" on the label.
- Be cautious of "fragrance" or "parfum," which can conceal them — choose fragrance-free products, or brands that disclose their scent ingredients (for example, products scented only with named botanicals).
- Scan for the abbreviations DEP, DBP and DEHP in ingredient lists.
- Favour transparent brands that publish full ingredient information.
- Consider water-free formulas. Anhydrous products are typically simpler, with fewer of the synthetic additives that carry phthalates.
📋 Please note: The products below are daily-care cosmetics. This section describes what's left out of the formula; it isn't medical advice or a claim to treat any condition.
CallNature's phthalate-free lineup
The simplest way to avoid hidden phthalates is to use products scented with real botanicals rather than synthetic "fragrance." CallNature's formulas are built exactly that way — no synthetic fragrance, so no hidden phthalates:
- SD7 Lipid Serum (skin) — an anhydrous, 100% botanical lipid facial serum, free from phthalates, parabens and synthetic fragrance. It supports the appearance of smoother, plumper, firmer-looking skin. Rated 4.9/5 from 51 reviews.
- ScarDerma Pro (scars & stretch marks) — a botanical lipid concentrate, also phthalate- and fragrance-free, that supports the look of softer, flatter-appearing scars.
- Dental Pro 7 (gums) — your mouth absorbs what you put in it too, so this matters for oral care as well. It's a water-free botanical gum concentrate free from phthalates, parabens, SLS and fluoride, supporting the appearance of firmer, pinker, healthier-looking gums.
All come with a 90-day money-back guarantee, so switching to a phthalate-free routine is an easy, low-risk change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are phthalates harmful in skincare and cosmetics?
Some phthalates can act as endocrine disruptors, potentially interfering with hormones. The amount in one product is small and the worst offenders are restricted in the UK and EU, but because exposure adds up across many products, reducing avoidable exposure is a reasonable choice.
How can I tell if a product contains phthalates?
They're often hidden under "fragrance" or "parfum." Look for "phthalate-free" claims, choose fragrance-free options, and check ingredient lists for DEP, DBP and DEHP.
Should I avoid phthalates during pregnancy?
Many people choose to minimise phthalate exposure during pregnancy as a precaution, since this is a sensitive period for hormonal and developmental health. Fragrance-free, phthalate-free products are an easy way to do that.
Which skincare brands are phthalate-free?
Look for brands that scent with named botanicals rather than synthetic "fragrance." CallNature's SD7 Lipid Serum, ScarDerma Pro and Dental Pro 7 are all made without phthalates, parabens or synthetic fragrance.