Phthalates are a family of chemicals widely used in many consumer products.

In cosmetics, phthalates are used primarily as solubulizers (an agent that something is dissolved in), plasticizers (an agent that enhances flexibility), or denaturants (which in the case of alcohol, makes the product bitter to the taste).

While the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allow the use of phthalates in cosmetic products, however in the State of California, two phthalates, DEHP and DEP, were listed as prohibited chemicals in 2004. The European Union (EU) passed regulations banning these two phthalates from cosmetic products as well.

DBP, commonly used in nail polish for long lasting wear, was removed from Estée Lauder Companies nail polish formulas as of 2004. DEHP is not used in any of our product formulas, and it is our policy not to use DEHP as a component added to packaging materials.

Another phthalate, DEP, commonly used as a solubilizer for fragrance ingredients, has a long history of safe use and is internationally accepted by global regulatory authorities for this purpose. For this reason, some Estée Lauder Companies brands continue to use DEP in fragrance products. Consumer safety is a top priority at The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. and our products undergo a rigorous protocol of safety evaluation. We reference peer reviewed scientific research as well as international regulatory guidelines regarding ingredients we use in our products. We are proud of the enviable safety record the Company has sustained since it was founded in 1946.