How do phthalates affect the skin?

Phthalates can be absorbed through the skin and enter the body, potentially impacting hormonal balance.

What are the potential reproductive effects of phthalates?

Phthalates can affect reproductive health by disrupting hormone regulation, leading to fertility issues.

Are Phthalates Harmful in Skincare and Cosmetics?

Q: Are phthalates harmful in skincare and cosmetics?

Phthalates can disrupt hormone systems, leading to potential health issues. They mimic or block hormones, causing imbalances.

Phthalates can disrupt hormones, affecting health. • They may be absorbed through the skin. • Potential risks include reproductive and neurological effects. • Choose "phthalate-free" products to minimize exposure.

⚡ Quick Answer: Phthalates are chemicals used in some cosmetics and fragrances that can act as endocrine (hormone) disruptors. The amount in any single product is small, but because we're exposed from many sources, many people choose to limit them. To avoid them, look for "phthalate-free," choose fragrance-free or transparently scented products, and watch for "fragrance/parfum," DEP, DBP and DEHP on labels.

By S. C. Aris — about the author

Last updated: 2026-05-01

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 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 why they're easy to miss.

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 or brands that disclose their scent ingredients.
Scan for the abbreviations DEP, DBP and DEHP in ingredient lists.
Favour transparent brands that publish full ingredient information.

If you prefer to keep your routine simple and clean, a minimal, fragrance-light formula is the easiest way to sidestep hidden phthalates. CallNature's SD7 Lipid Serum, for example, is a concentrated botanical lipid formula made without added phthalates.

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.