If you’re searching for the perfect scent, you might unknowingly expose yourself to harmful chemicals lurking in many perfumes and colognes.
Fragrance has become the fastest-growing sector in the beauty industry, outpacing skincare, makeup, and hair products, according to a 2024 report by Circana. While high-end perfumes are gaining traction, body sprays have experienced an astonishing 94% growth over the past year.
However, research has revealed that many of these scented products contain chemicals linked to potential health risks.1 These include parabens and phenols, which extend a fragrance’s shelf life, and phthalates, one of the most prevalent and well-studied fragrance additives associated with adverse health effects. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to heart disease, hypertension, pregnancy complications, and even preterm birth.2,3
“Phthalates are known reproductive toxins,” said Julia Varshavsky, PhD, MPH, an assistant professor of public health and health sciences at Northeastern University.
Here’s what the science says about these chemicals and how you can minimize exposure while still enjoying your favorite scents.
The Science Behind the Risks
Phthalates are a class of over two dozen chemicals commonly used in plastics, food packaging, and cosmetics. In fragrances, they serve as solvents and stabilizers, allowing the scent to last longer on the skin.4
Parabens, phenols, and phthalates are classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with the body’s hormone system. Hormones regulate essential functions like growth, fertility, and metabolism, so prolonged exposure to endocrine disruptors could impact long-term health.
A 2021 review of human and animal studies highlighted phthalates’ detrimental effects on neurological, developmental, and reproductive health.5 “As a class, the data is convincing that these chemicals cause health effects,” said John Meeker, ScD, a professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Michigan.
Although exposure to these chemicals poses risks at any age, “the most sensitive time for phthalate exposure is during fetal development,” Varshavsky explained. Pregnant individuals should be particularly cautious, as phthalates can disrupt fetal development. Young children, whose hormonal systems are still forming, are also highly vulnerable.
Parabens have been linked to female infertility, while phthalates have been studied extensively for their impact on male reproductive health.6 Research has associated prenatal phthalate exposure with reproductive issues such as low sperm count, testicular cancer, and congenital abnormalities, including cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) and hypospadias (malformation of the urethra).7
Although initial research on phthalates was primarily conducted on animals, more recent human studies have produced similar findings, further validating these concerns. “We now see consistent results across human research,” Meeker confirmed.
How to Identify and Avoid Harmful Chemicals in Fragrances
Pinpointing which perfumes and colognes contain phthalates can be challenging, as manufacturers often do not explicitly list them on ingredient labels. Instead, they may be hidden under vague terms like “fragrance” or “parfum.”4
The FDA requires fragrance labeling, but proprietary trade secret laws protect companies from fully disclosing their formulas.4 “Fragrance is the product’s selling point, so companies often avoid revealing its exact composition,” Varshavsky noted.
Parabens, if listed, may appear as methylparaben (MP), butylparaben (BP), ethylparaben (EP), or propylparaben (PP).1 Phthalates may be identified on labels as “diethyl phthalate” or acronyms such as DEHP, DBP, BBP, or DEP.
To simplify the search for safer products, environmental scientist Stephanie Eick, PhD, recommends using the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Healthy Living app. “It helps determine which products contain phthalates and which are safer alternatives. Some products even carry an ‘EWG Verified’ label,” she said.
If your go-to fragrance contains phthalates and you’re reluctant to give it up, experts recommend reducing exposure by opting for unscented or phthalate-free skincare, makeup, and hair products.
The good news is that phthalates have a short half-life, meaning they do not accumulate in the body. “Our bodies eliminate them quickly, often within a day,” Eick said. However, constant exposure through various sources remains a concern.
Reducing exposure, even after years of using these products, can have a meaningful impact on health. “This is a solvable problem,” Varshavsky emphasized. “Unlike persistent chemicals such as PFAS or flame retardants, phthalates can be removed from the body relatively quickly once exposure stops.”
Final Thoughts
Fragrances may add an alluring touch to daily life, but the hidden chemicals within them could pose significant health risks. By becoming more informed about fragrance ingredients, using resources like EWG’s Healthy Living app, and choosing safer alternatives, you can reduce your exposure while still smelling great. The shift to cleaner fragrances doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it just requires informed choices and small, sustainable changes.
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