Is DEHP Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: DEHP is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (phthalates).
INCI name Diethylhexyl Phthalate. CAS 117-81-7.
Other names: di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
Is DEHP banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | nail polish, perfume, hairspray, lotion |
| CAS number | 117-81-7 |
What is DEHP?
DEHP is a phthalate plasticizer historically used in fragrances, nail polish and hair products.
Why is DEHP used in personal-care products?
Phthalates make plastics flexible, help fragrance last longer and reduce nail-polish chipping.
Is DEHP dangerous? Documented risks
DEHP is a reproductive and developmental toxicant and endocrine disruptor. The EU bans CMR phthalates in cosmetics; the US has no federal cosmetic ban.
Products that may contain DEHP
- nail polish
- perfume
- hairspray
- lotion
How to avoid DEHP: safer alternatives
Choose phthalate-free and 'fragrance-free' products. BannedPantry flags phthalates and undisclosed 'fragrance' on the label.
Frequently asked questions about DEHP
Is DEHP banned in the EU?
DEHP is banned under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009), but it is allowed in US personal-care products.
Is DEHP in US cosmetics?
Yes — DEHP can still appear in US-sold cosmetics and personal-care products because US rules are far less restrictive than the EU's.
What products contain DEHP?
Read the INCI ingredient list on the back of the package. Scan the barcode with BannedPantry to flag DEHP automatically.
Are there safer alternatives to DEHP?
Yes. Look for EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations; BannedPantry suggests safer swaps when it detects DEHP.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains DEHP or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related phthalates
Avoiding banned beauty ingredients? Check your food, too.
Sources
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II (prohibited substances) — EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009
- EU endocrine disruptor list I — EU ED Lists
- Chemicals in cosmetics — CHEM Trust
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.