Phthalates are endocrine disruptors but some are still used in various cosmetic products. Should we be worried? Dr Haran Sivapalan examines the evidence. If you look at the ingredients listed on your favourite products it may well say ‘fragrance.’ If so, there’s a chance that the product may contain phthalates – molecules that are considered to be ‘endocrine disruptors.’ Currently, the EU Cosmetics Directive bans the use of over 1,300 chemicals in cosmetics and, in 2013, three  “phthalates” were added to this list. But there are some that are still used in a variety of products including skincare, perfumes, hair sprays…