Phthalates (DEP — Diethyl Phthalate, DBP — Dibutyl Phthalate, DEHP — Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate) are chemicals added to plastics and cosmetics to increase flexibility and help scents last longer.
The tricky part: phthalates are rarely listed directly on the INCI label — they are most often hidden under the terms "Fragrance" or "Parfum". They are used in perfumes, nail polish, hair sprays, and many scented products.
Phthalates are strong endocrine disruptors linked to reproductive toxicity, reduced fertility, and developmental problems in fetuses. The EU has already banned several phthalates in cosmetics.
NOMI & YOU only carries brands with transparent INCI lists and no hidden phthalates.