Is Dimethyl phthalate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Dimethyl phthalate is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (phthalates).
INCI name Dimethyl Phthalate. CAS 131-11-3.
Other names: DMP
Is Dimethyl phthalate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | nail polish, perfume, hairspray, lotion |
| CAS number | 131-11-3 |
What is Dimethyl phthalate?
Dimethyl phthalate is a phthalate plasticizer historically used in fragrances, nail polish and hair products.
Why is Dimethyl phthalate used in personal-care products?
Phthalates make plastics flexible, help fragrance last longer and reduce nail-polish chipping.
Is Dimethyl phthalate dangerous? Documented risks
Dimethyl phthalate 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 Dimethyl phthalate
- nail polish
- perfume
- hairspray
- lotion
How to avoid Dimethyl phthalate: safer alternatives
Choose phthalate-free and 'fragrance-free' products. BannedPantry flags phthalates and undisclosed 'fragrance' on the label.
Frequently asked questions about Dimethyl phthalate
Is Dimethyl phthalate banned in the EU?
Dimethyl phthalate is banned under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009), but it is allowed in US personal-care products.
Is Dimethyl phthalate in US cosmetics?
Yes — Dimethyl phthalate 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 Dimethyl phthalate?
Read the INCI ingredient list on the back of the package. Scan the barcode with BannedPantry to flag Dimethyl phthalate automatically.
Are there safer alternatives to Dimethyl phthalate?
Yes. Look for EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations; BannedPantry suggests safer swaps when it detects Dimethyl phthalate.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Dimethyl phthalate 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.