The Hidden Dangers of Phthalates in Skincare - and Why You Won't Find Them in Jennifer Baron, M.D. Skincare

As a dermatologist and micrographic surgeon, my commitment to skin health extends far beyond the exam room. Every day, I see firsthand how the products we use can impact not only the appearance of our skin, but also its long-term health and resilience. One of the most concerning—and often overlooked—ingredients in many skincare products is a class of chemicals known as phthalates, commonly found in synthetic fragrances.

What Are Phthalates?

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and to help fragrances last longer in personal care products. You’ll often find them lurking under the vague term “fragrance” or “parfum” on ingredient labels. While they may make a lotion smell appealing or a cream feel silky, the potential risks associated with phthalates are far from skin-deep.

Why Are Phthalates a Problem?

Research has linked phthalate exposure to a range of health concerns, including:

• Endocrine Disruption: Phthalates can interfere with the body’s hormone systems, potentially affecting reproductive health and development.
• Allergic Reactions and Sensitization: These chemicals can trigger skin irritation, allergic reactions, and may exacerbate conditions like eczema and contact dermatitis.
• Potential Carcinogenicity: Some studies have raised concerns about the long-term effects of phthalate exposure, including possible links to certain cancers.

For those with sensitive skin, chronic skin conditions, or anyone simply seeking to minimize unnecessary chemical exposure, avoiding phthalates is a wise choice.

The Fragrance Trap

One of the most frustrating aspects of phthalates is how difficult they can be to spot. Because they are often included as part of proprietary fragrance blends, manufacturers are not required to list them individually. This means that even products labeled as “unscented” or “for sensitive skin” may still contain hidden phthalates.

My Commitment: Phthalate-Free Skincare

When I created the Jennifer Baron, M.D. skincare line, my guiding principle was simple: every ingredient must serve a clear, beneficial purpose for skin health. That’s why you will never find phthalates or synthetic fragrance additives in any of my products. Instead, I focus on clinically proven, dermatologist-approved ingredients that nourish, protect, and restore the skin—without unnecessary or potentially harmful chemicals.

What You’ll Find Instead

• Transparent Ingredient Lists: Every product is formulated with full transparency, so you know exactly what you’re putting on your skin.
• Gentle, Effective Formulas: I use only the highest quality, non-sensitizing ingredients, suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.
• No Hidden Fragrances: If a product has a scent, it comes from natural, skin-friendly sources—never from synthetic fragrance blends or phthalates.

Your Skin, Your Health, Your Choice

As both a dermatologist and a skincare creator, I believe that what you leave out of a product is just as important as what you put in. By choosing phthalate-free skincare, you’re making a conscious decision to protect your skin and your overall health.

Your skin deserves the best—pure, effective, and safe care, every single day.