What Are Phthalates—And Why Should You Care?

Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are a class of chemicals hiding in thousands of everyday products—from shampoo and perfume to candles, detergent, plastic packaging, and even receipts.

They’re used to make plastics flexible and to help fragrance "stick" to your skin or linger in the air. But here’s the problem: phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with your hormones—and that’s just the beginning.

The Health Risks of Phthalates

Research has linked phthalates to a wide range of health concerns:

• Hormonal imbalances

• Lower sperm count and infertility

• Increased risk of asthma and allergies

• Early puberty

• Disruption of fetal development during pregnancy

• Possible links to obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers

In fact, a recent study found that phthalate exposure may contribute to over 100,000 premature deaths each year in the U.S. alone.

And the scariest part? They don’t stay in the product—they end up in you. Phthalates are absorbed through your skin, inhaled into your lungs, and even ingested when they leach into food from packaging.

Where Phthalates Are Hiding

Phthalates are rarely listed outright on labels. Instead, they show up under vague terms like:

• "Fragrance"

• "Parfum"

• "Plastic #3 (PVC)"

They’re found in:

• Candles and air fresheners

• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

• Deodorant and lotion

• Vinyl shower curtains and flooring

• Processed food packaging

• Fast food gloves, straws, and containers

• Toys, cosmetics, and even medical tubing

How to Avoid Them

Phthalates are everywhere—but there’s good news: you can reduce your exposure with small, intentional swaps. Here’s how:

• Look for phthalate-free or fragrance-free labels (but read ingredient lists to be sure)

• Choose essential oil–scented products instead of "fragrance"

• Avoid plastic packaging when possible—especially for food

• Use glass, stainless steel, or beeswax wrap instead of plastic containers

• Switch to clean, non-toxic home and body products (like everything we make at Grasa Glow)

Why We Never Use Phthalates at Grasa Glow

At Grasa Glow, we believe your products shouldn’t mess with your hormones. That’s why every single one of our ingredients is chosen with integrity and transparency—and why we never use synthetic fragrance or hidden chemical fillers.

Our scents come from real essential oils. Our packaging avoids plastics wherever possible. And our formulas are built to nourish, not disrupt.

Because clean should actually mean clean.

Ready to ditch phthalates for good?
Explore our collection of non-toxic skincare, candles, and balms.