what’s the big deal about phthalates?

If you’ve spent any time reading candle labels lately, you’ve probably seen the phrase “phthalate-free” popping up more and more. It’s become one of these buzzwords that everyone seems to use, but few people stop to explain what it actually means.

So, let’s talk about it.

Phthalates are a group of chemicals commonly used in a wide range of products, including plastics, cosmetics, personal care products, air fresheners, and some fragrance oils. In fragrance, they’re often used to help scents bind together and linger longer.

Over the years, certain phthalates have raised concerns among researchers because of their potential role as endocrine disruptors, meaning they may interfere with the body’s hormone systems. Some studies have linked high levels of exposure to reproductive and developmental effects, while others suggest possible impacts on metabolism and overall health. At the same time, science is still evolving, and not all phthalates have been studied equally.

The reality is that most of us encounter phthalates in countless small ways throughout our daily lives. They’re difficult to avoid entirely. So for us, choosing phthalate-free fragrance oils isn’t about fear or claiming that every product containing phthalates is inherently dangerous. It’s about being thoughtful.

When we formulate our candles, we’re making a series of choices about what we bring into the products we create. If there’s an option to reduce unnecessary exposure to ingredients that have raised questions about long-term health effects, we believe it’s worth considering. Especially when that alternative doesn’t compromise the quality of the finished product.

It’s the same philosophy that guides so many of our everyday decisions. We don’t always have complete certainty. Scientific understanding changes and grows. But when we have the opportunity to choose ingredients that align with our values of mindfulness and transparency, we choose them.

That doesn’t mean a phthalate-free candle is a “clean” candle, a “perfect” candle, or a guarantee of safety. It simply means one less category of chemicals to think about. For us, using phthalate-free fragrance oils is one small way of approaching candle-making with intention rather than convenience.

This article in intended for educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. Research on phthalates is ongoing, and individuals with specific concerns about environmental exposures should consult a qualified healthcare professional.