Are synthetic fragrances and phthalates common in baby skincare products?

By Bloom · 2 November 2026 · 3 min read

This page explains labels and certifications. Not medical advice; ask your paediatrician.

Understanding Labels and Ingredients

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When looking at a label, the term fragrance often represents a mixture of many different chemicals ^[2][3]. Phthalates are sometimes used as solvents or stabilizers within these fragrance mixtures ^[1]. Because companies are not required to disclose the individual components of a fragrance, you may not see the word phthalate on the ingredient list even if it is present ^[1][2].

What to Look For

To identify products without these additions, look for labels that explicitly state fragrance-free ^[2]. While some companies choose to disclose their full fragrance composition, this is not a universal requirement ^[3]. Checking the full ingredient list provided by the manufacturer is a helpful step in understanding what is in the bottle ^[1].

If you have questions about specific ingredients or how a product might interact with your child, ask your paediatrician for guidance. They can help you navigate the options available for your family's needs while you review the published ingredient lists.

Certifications and Testing

Certifications can provide information about how a product is tested. For example, some textile products carry OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification, which tests for various substances in items like clothing and diapers ^[4][5]. This certification uses strict limit values for products intended for children up to 36 months old ^[4][5].

It is important to understand that a certification confirms a product has passed specific tests defined by that organization ^[4]. It does not tell you everything about every ingredient in a product. Always check the specific standards of any certification you see to understand what it covers and what it does not.

Comparing Products

When comparing two items, look closely at the full ingredient list rather than just the marketing claims on the front of the package ^[1]. Products that disclose every ingredient allow you to see exactly what you are bringing into your home ^[2][3].

If one product lists fragrance and another does not, the fragrance-free option is a way to avoid the hidden components often found in proprietary fragrance mixtures ^[2]. Always verify that the ingredient list is complete before making your decision.

The Hidden Reality of Fragrance Labels

While consumers often check labels for specific ingredients, the term fragrance on a product label is frequently a placeholder for a complex mixture ^[2]. Because manufacturers are not required to disclose the individual components of these mixtures, they are often protected as trade secrets ^[2]. This means that even if a product contains phthalates, they may not be explicitly listed on the packaging ^[2].

Because of this lack of transparency, simply reading the ingredient list may not reveal the presence of these substances ^[1]. Experts note that it is rare to see phthalates listed by name on product packaging ^[2]. To avoid these hidden components, choosing products specifically labeled as fragrance-free is a common strategy for those who prefer to limit their exposure to undisclosed fragrance ingredients ^[2].

Evaluating Product Standards and Certifications

When comparing different baby care items, it is useful to look for third-party certifications that indicate rigorous testing ^[4][5]. Some brands submit their products to independent institutes to ensure they meet strict limit values for various substances ^[4][5]. These certifications often involve testing every component, from fibers to adhesives, to verify that the finished item adheres to established standards for sensitive skin ^[4][5].

Beyond standard labels, some companies are beginning to voluntarily disclose their full fragrance compositions, including any components that may cause reactions ^[3]. When comparing two products, you can look for those that provide this level of transparency regarding their ingredients ^[3]. By selecting items that clearly list all components, parents can make more informed decisions about the products they use for their babies ^[3].

Quick answers

Are phthalates always listed on labels?

No, phthalates are rarely listed by name on ingredient labels because they are often hidden within fragrance mixtures ^[2].

What does fragrance-free mean?

Choosing products labeled fragrance-free is a common strategy to avoid the complex, undisclosed chemical mixtures often found in scented products ^[2].

On Bloom’s verified list

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Sources

1. Phthalates in Cosmetics | FDA fda.gov
2. 5 Concerning Ingredients in Cosmetics and Beauty Products - Consumer Reports consumerreports.org
3. 20 Ingredients to Always Avoid in Baby Products ecopeaco.ca
4. Behind the label: How Pampers ensures the safety of baby products through OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification oeko-tex.com
5. Behind the label: How Pampers ensures the safety of baby products through OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification oeko-tex.com

Bloom explains labels, ingredients and certifications. Not medical advice; ask your paediatrician.