Phthalates and Cosmetics: Hidden Hazard

In 2008, the United States Congress banned six different kinds of phthalates from use in cosmetic products and children’s toys due the serious health risks they posed. However, many other dangerous phthalates are still being used in cosmetic products, and in this article we’ll explain what phthalates are, why they’re dangerous, and steps you can take to avoid them.

Written by Sarah Bertram, Green Health Research Contributor

What Are Phthalates and How Are They Used?

Fragrances are filled with phthalates

Phthalates are a group of synthetic industrial chemicals originally used to help make plastics like vinyl soft and pliable. Phthalates first began to be used to replace natural plastic ingredients like castor oil and camphor in the 1920s. By the 1930s natural plasticizers were all but obsolete.

However, today phthalates are used in more than just standard plastic products. They are also used in many cosmetic products like shampoos, perfumes, soaps, lotions, deodorants, nail polish, and many other personal care products we use every day.

Phthalates are used in cosmetic products because they help these products adhere to the skin and nail. This makes the products which contain phthalates long-wearing and easily absorbed by the skin.