Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
What it is
A high-molecular-weight ortho-phthalate ester used for decades to soften PVC plastics. It is an oily, colorless liquid that migrates readily from plastic into fats, oils, and saliva.
What it does
Flexibilises PVC in medical tubing, food packaging, flooring, and toys. Not typically added to cosmetics today but can contaminate fragranced products via packaging.
Why it’s a concern
DEHP has antiandrogenic effects in animal studies. A 2015 US cohort associated higher prenatal DEHP biomarkers with slightly shorter male anogenital distance, a developmental marker rather than a diagnosis of infertility. A 2025 cohort did not reproduce a male association after correction for multiple comparisons. EPA's TSCA findings are use-specific and exclude food contact, cosmetics, and medical devices.
Also known as
CAS numbers
Commonly found in
Safer alternatives
- DINCH
- citrate-based plasticizers
- silicone medical tubing
- glass containers
Related chemical families
Sources
- IARC Monograph Volume 101
- US CDC NHANES Biomonitoring