You may not have heard of them, but phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are likely all around you. Often called “the everywhere chemical,” phthalates are synthetic compounds used to soften plastics and help scents stick around longer in personal care products. They're hidden in everything from scented lotions to food packaging, and unfortunately, they're getting a lot of attention for all the wrong reasons.
What’s the Risk?
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone function. For years, research has linked phthalate exposure to:
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Reproductive and fertility issues
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Hormonal imbalance
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Asthma and allergies
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Behavioral issues in children
But new studies are pointing to an even more sobering risk: heart disease.
In 2023, researchers found that people with higher levels of certain phthalates in their bodies were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease, including sudden cardiac death. This builds on earlier studies that suggested phthalates can contribute to arterial stiffness, high blood pressure, and inflammation—all major risk factors for heart problems.
How to Protect Yourself
While we can’t avoid phthalates entirely, we can lower our exposure:
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Choose personal care and cleaning products that are phthalate-free (check for "fragrance", "parfum", "perfume" on ingredient lists— labeling loopholes allow manufactures to hide phthalates under these terms so they don't have to specify whats in them. Phthalates are what makes scent last and are a key part of many musk scents.
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Avoid plastics labeled with recycling code #3 (PVC)
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Store food in glass or stainless steel, not soft plastics
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Wash your hands regularly to remove surface chemicals from dust and packaging
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Support brands that value transparency and clean formulations
Our Take
At Somic, we don't use phthalates. Not because it's trendy—but because we genuinely care about your long-term health. Clean, plant-powered ingredients are the foundation of everything we make. We believe that wellness shouldn't come with hidden trade-offs.
The science is still evolving, but one thing is clear: it’s time to take these “everywhere chemicals” seriously. Your heart—and your whole body—deserve better.
