Quality Control in Cosmetics: A Five-Year Screening Survey on the Content of Phthalates in Colognes

Phthalate esters are used in colognes and other cosmetics and related products to maintain fragrance. Additionally, phthalates can dissolve and stabilize certain aroma ingredients and essential oils. The results of a five-year study (2016–2020) conducted in a quality control laboratory on the presence of phthalate esters in various cosmetic products are presented. A total of 1147 samples from four cologne categories: eau de toilette, eau de cologne, fragrance, and perfume were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) for the quantification of the nine different phthalate esters (BBP, DEHP, DNOP, DNPP, DBP, DIPP, DMEP, DMP, and PIPP) in each category. The results revealed the absence of phthalates at concentrations above the threshold limit (1 µg mL−1) in 95% of the samples analyzed. However, different levels of phthalates were detected in 57 samples, mainly DEHP and DBP. Our findings also demonstrate distinct phthalate profiles according to cologne type, with relevant variations among the four cologne categories analyzed.