Hidden Risks: Quantifying Sources of Phthalate Exposure From Cleansers

To what extent does using skincare products contribute to human exposure to phthalates? Phthalates are commonly used in personal care products as fragrance stabilizers but have been linked to endocrine disruption and other health concerns. These compounds can also leach from the plastic containers into the products inside. With increased consumer awareness, it is vital to investigate the presence of phthalates in everyday consumer products, such as cleansers, which are used in daily hygiene routines. This study determines whether phthalates are present in multiple brands of cleanser products and compares their levels across different formulations. Liquid-liquid extraction followed by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultraviolet spectroscopy detection is employed to isolate phthalate compounds for accurate quantification. The expectation is to identify varying levels of phthalates in different cleanser brands, with some formulations containing higher concentrations than others, depending on their ingredient composition. The findings will help assess potential consumer exposure and identify products that contain harmful chemicals. If phthalates are detected, the results will emphasize increased transparency in ingredient labeling and encourage consumers to use resources such as the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database to make informed purchasing decisions. This study contributes to the broader discussion on product safety and may support efforts to advocate for stricter regulations on phthalate use in cosmetics and personal care products.