Dimethyl Phthalate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 131-11-3, DIMETHYLPHTHALATE, Avolin, Mipax, Palatinol M, Solvanom, Solvarone, Fermine, Dimethyl o-phthalate
Synthetic
Occlusive
Solvent
Not Clean
Dimethyl phthalate has many uses, including in solid rocket propellants, plastics, and insect repellants. Acute (short-term) exposure to dimethyl phthalate, via inhalation in humans and animals, results in irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. No information is available on the chronic (long-term), reproductive, developmental, or carcinogenic effects of dimethyl phthalate in humans. Animal studies have reported slight effects on growth and on the kidney from chronic oral exposure to the chemical. EPA has classified dimethyl phthalate as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogencity.
Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C10H10O4
Mol. Weight
194.18
CAS #
131-11-3
Form
Powder
State
Dimethyl phthalate appears as a water-white liquid without significant odor. Denser than water and insoluble in water. Hence sinks in water. Flash point 300 °F. Eye contact may produce severe irritati
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Plasticiser
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Quells irritation
Traditional Use
A synthetic plasticizer developed in the early 20th century and historically used in cosmetics to improve flexibility in nail polishes and film-forming products, though its use has declined due to regulatory concerns.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Phototoxicity Concern
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR