Document Actions
Reading Labels to Avoid Phthalates
tips on reading product labels to avoid phthalates
It can be challenging to identify consumer products that contain phthalates because complete labelling is not required on many products.
PVC (vinyl) Products
Phthalates are frequently used to soften PVC (vinyl) products. If a
vinyl product is flexible, it probably contains phthalates unless the
label specifically says it does not.
Cosmetics & Personal Care Products
Phthalates are often used in cosmetics and personal care products to carry fragrances. Under current law, they can then simply be labeled “fragrance,” even though they may make up 20% or more of the product.
On some products, ingredients are listed, but the chemical names or acryonyms can be confusing. Use the list below to identify phthalates.
Phthalate names | commonly used in |
| DEHP or di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate | used as a softener in PVC products, such as IV bags, tubing, and other medical devices |
| BzBP or benzylbutyl phthalate | used in vinyl flooring, car-care products, and personal care products |
DBP | used in nail polish and other personal care products |
DEP | used in personal care products, such as deodorants, perfume, cologne, aftershave lotion, shampoo, hair gel, hand lotion |
DMP
| used in insect repellent, plastics, and solid rocket propellant |
<back to main Phthlates page