5 Everyday Products That May Be Disrupting Your Hormones and Health
Scented products: Synthetic fragrances are found in a variety of products from perfume and candles to cleaning products. Fragrance is frequently overlooked as being toxic because there are currently no regulations for the chemical ingredients included to be disclosed to consumers. Fragrances often include phthalates which influence estrogen (prominent female reproductive hormone), androgen (e.g. testosterone), and thyroid hormones (for metabolic and development functions), affecting mood and fertility.
Paraben-containing makeup: Parabens are often included in a multitude of makeup products like foundation, concealer, mascara, lipstick, powders, and primers, as preservatives due to their antimicrobial properties. Although classified as “safe”, parabens can be absorbed through the skin and act as artificial estrogens and mild androgen/thyroid blockers which has raised concerns of increasing breast cancer risks.
Chemical Sunscreens: UV filters have been integrated into several products, such as sunscreens, lip balms, makeup, and lotions. Increased endocrine, androgen, and thyroid disruption from organic UV filters compared to inorganic UV filters are noted because of their ability to cross the skin barrier.
Antibacterial Products: A common antibacterial agent, triclosan, is often included in toothpaste, mouthwash, hand sanitizer, and clinical-grade disinfectants. Although triclosan was banned from soap formulations in 2016 due to its risks, it still remains in these various products. Triclosan is seen to disrupt thyroid receptors, along with other hormones, which can affect mental health, such as anxiety.
Silicon-based products: Siloxane is a silicon-based agent that is seen in conditioners, lotions, and skincare products. Although minimally absorbed by the skin, siloxane can also be inhaled. Studies show that cyclic siloxanes can activate endocrine and potentially block androgen, possibly leading to reproductive concerns.
Source:
Ashcroft, S., et al. (2024). Synthetic Endocrine Disruptors in Fragranced Products. Endocrines.
