Full EU Regulatory
Clearance
Not all phthalates are the same. DEP is the only commonly-used phthalate that is NOT restricted, NOT an SVHC, and has been explicitly deemed safe by the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety.
DEP vs. Restricted Phthalates
A side-by-side comparison of the five most commonly referenced phthalates shows why DEP stands alone as the safe choice.
| Substance | CAS No. | SVHC Status | REACH Annex XIV | EU Cosmetics Reg. | CMR Classification | SCCS Opinion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEP | 84-66-2 | Not listed | Not listed | Allowed | Not CMR | Safe |
| DEHP | 117-81-7 | Listed | Listed | Banned | Repr. 1B | — |
| DBP | 84-74-2 | Listed | Listed | Banned | Repr. 1B | — |
| BBP | 85-68-7 | Listed | Listed | Banned | Repr. 1B | — |
| DIBP | 84-69-5 | Listed | Listed | Banned | Repr. 1B | — |
SCCS Opinion Summary
The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has specifically evaluated DEP and confirmed its safety for use in cosmetic products at current usage levels.
This is a critical distinction: while other phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP) have been identified as Substances of Very High Concern and are subject to authorisation requirements, DEP has received a positive safety opinion.
Positive Safety Opinion
SCCS concluded DEP is safe for consumers when used in cosmetic products.
Not a CMR Substance
DEP is not classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction.
No Usage Restrictions
No concentration limits imposed for cosmetic applications under EU regulations.
REACH Registration Details
DEP is fully registered under the REACH regulation (EC No 1907/2006) for manufacture and import into the European Economic Area.
CLP Classification
Under the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (EC No 1272/2008), DEP carries minimal hazard classifications compared to other phthalates.
DEP Harmonised Classification
- Eye Irrit. 2 (H319) — Causes serious eye irritation
Notably absent: No CMR classification. No reproductive toxicity. No endocrine disruption concern.
Other Phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP)
- Repr. 1B (H360FD) — May damage fertility or the unborn child
- SVHC — Subject to authorisation under REACH
- Banned in cosmetics — Listed in Annex II of EC 1223/2009
Need the Full Regulatory Brief?
Download our comprehensive regulatory dossier covering REACH registration, SCCS opinions, CLP classification, and cosmetics regulation status for DEP.