Dangerous Phthalates: What They Are, Where They're Hidden, and How to Avoid Them

Phthalates are found in products that most of us come into contact with every day. They are found in personal care products, food and beverage bottles, detergents, pharmaceuticals, vinyl flooring, wall coverings, and even children’s toys. Although it may be difficult to avoid phthalates entirely, it helps to be informed about what they are and what potential risks they pose.

What are phthalates?

Phthalates are among the most commonly used chemicals in the world. These colorless, odorless, oily liquids are most often used as “plasticizers” to soften plastics that would otherwise crack and break. Phthalates enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption.

How can phthalates affect us?

Phthalates are used as additives in some shampoos. They are also found in mousses, hairsprays, and conditioners. They help lubricate, soften other ingredients, improve spreadability, increase absorbency, and help fragrances last longer. Under current law, manufacturers are not required to list phthalates on product labels. Any ingredient simply listed as “fragrance” in hair care products usually contains phthalates. The FDA has not taken any measures to reduce the use of phthalates in personal care products, despite significant evidence showing potential risks associated with long-term exposure.

In animal testing, certain phthalates have caused malformations and permanent damage to the male reproductive system. These same phthalates are currently sold in hair care products. There are no regulations in place, which is why even the biggest brands on the market use them in some of their products. The only way to avoid exposure to phthalates is to read product labels carefully. When buying hair care products, stick with companies that have committed to keeping their products phthalate-free.

What are phthalates called on products, and what should you look for on the label?

Be on the lookout for the following ingredient names, which indicate that the product contains phthalates:

  • DCP (dibutyl phthalate)
  • DEP (diethyl phthalate)
  • DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate)
  • BzBP (benzyl butyl phthalate)
  • DBP (dibutyl phthalate)
  • DNOP (di-n-octyl phthalate)
  • DiNP (diisononyl phthalate)
  • DiDP (diisodecyl phthalate)
  • DMP (dimethyl phthalate)
Treat your hair to a makeover

Your journey to healthy, beautiful hair begins here. Switch out your shampoo and conditioner for the meer. kit for damaged hair.

What side effects can phthalates cause?

  • Infertility in Men and Women
  • premature birth
  • low birth weight
  • asthma
  • obesity
  • worsening of allergy symptoms
  • early onset of puberty
  • Insulin resistance in adolescence
  • behavioral changes
  • interference with the natural functioning of the endocrine system
  • Low testosterone in men
  • The potential risk increases for breast and liver cancer

Phthalate-Free Products

Many brands offer phthalate-free products. The reality, however, is that very few products on the market actually contain zero phthalates. If you’re looking for phthalate-free hair care products, you definitely won’t find them in our line. We’re strictly committed to healthy hair—and even more strictly to your health. That’s why we don’t use any questionable ingredients. Order our phthalate-free set today and enjoy healthy hair!

Complete Care for Damaged Hair

Simple steps you can take at home without having to overthink it. Two sets, four individual steps.

Recommended Blog Posts

Leading global experts share their knowledge. Learn the best practices and discover the magic of healthy, beautiful hair.

Dry, Dull Hair? 4 Quick Steps to Shine

Dry hair tends to lack moisture, shine, and elasticity. This can be caused by many factors, such as using the wrong products, insufficient nutrient intake in your diet, or excessive use of inappropriate chemicals or techniques in hair care.

Frizzy Hair: 5 Main Causes and 8 Effective Solutions

Summer and humid weather can cause some of us to struggle with problems like frizzy hair. Frizzy hair can be frustrating, especially when nothing seems to tame it. As annoying as frizzy hair can be, most of us aren’t exactly sure what causes it, which means we don’t know the best way to manage it. Don’t worry—we’re here to answer all your questions.

7 Benefits of Argan Oil for Hair and Beauty

In the world of hair care and cosmetics, plant-based oils are becoming increasingly common ingredients. Hundreds of products claim to work wonders for your skin and hair. Are there real benefits, or is it just marketing? Read on to learn more about argan oil and why it’s beneficial for your skin and hair.

Meer. is a proud carbon-neutral company

To offset our carbon footprint, we use advanced artificial intelligence technology through pachama.com. We support various projects for forest restoration and conservation around the world. You don’t even have to buy anything from us. We do this because it is one of our core business values: to give back what we have taken from nature.

Borneo Peatlands
Kalimantan Peatlands
Ecomapuá Amazon

Are you ready to repair your damaged hair?