Hormones may do havoc on your skin. When you reach puberty and teenage years, your hormone levels usually skyrocket, impacting many regions of your body, including your skin. But, if you take extra good care of them, they can be beneficial for your skin. One way of doing so is by avoiding endocrine disruptors. But what’s the big deal with them?
What Are Endocrine Disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are present everywhere you go in almost anything you touch. They’re generally regarded as hormone-altering substances that play havoc with your body’s natural processes. They can be found in skincare products, mimicking oestrogen and causing hormonal disruptions in your body.
The trouble with these disruptors is that they may cause serious issues in your body, particularly some of them are cancerous. Aside from that, some of them affect the immune system and create neurological problems. So, to maintain your hormone balance and prevent illnesses or disorders, you must avoid these toxins.
Since endocrine disruptors are prevalent, picking up a bottle of conditioner or a tube of cream at the pharmacy could be tricky. Whether you want to try using skincare products specific for dry skin or otherwise, you’ll have to be aware of the possible hidden toxins of the products you purchase and apply them to your skin so you can avoid them. If you want to avoid facial sagging skin, use natural skincare products that contain fewer substances that interfere with your hormones. Seek out all-natural, organic, and mineral-based products. Look for ingredients like rosehip oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, aloe vera extract, and others to moisturise your skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
Common Endocrine Disruptors In Skin Care Products
Now that you know what endocrine disruptors do to your body, especially your skin, you must understand what exactly they are and where they’re commonly found. So, without further ado, take a look at these toxins below, and be on the lookout to keep them out of your life as best as you can.
Parabens
Parabens is a well-known endocrine disruptor that’s present in many skincare products. Since it’s a chemical substance that doesn’t dissolve in water, it can infiltrate your skin. They’re often found in shampoos, moisturizers, conditioners, and face cleansers.
Aside from affecting your endocrine systems, parabens are also thought to cause complications in a person’s reproductive system, which is why pregnant women are advised not to use paraben-containing products.
Another concern is that parabens can have many names. This could make determining whether or not a product contains paraben stressful. Some of these include propylparaben, methyl-paraben, and many more. As much as you can, avoid anything that includes substances with parabens at the end of it.
Synthetic Fragrances
You can smell fragrances and aromas on almost every cosmetic and beauty product you find. However, such fragrances can cause serious health problems. One of the most common concerns is that they induce allergic reactions to those who are sensitive to them. Furthermore, it’s said that the compounds contained in synthetic perfumes include 95 percent crude oil.
One way of avoiding the purchase of products containing this endocrine disruptor by mistake is to examine the product’s label. Check whether it includes the words “fragrance” or “parfum.” After all, you won’t realize how these additional scents could actually disturb your endocrine systems and cause hormonal imbalance.
Phthalates
Phthalates are another common endocrine disruptive ingredient found in modern-day cosmetic products. However, these are the ones that aren’t explicitly included on the ingredients list of a cosmetic product. Unlike the chemicals above, phthalates don’t have hormone-mimicking effects on a person’s body. Instead, they seem to have detrimental effects on both men’s and women’s reproductive systems.
To steer clear of this compound, stop using containers and water bottles that are made of plastic. Instead, make as many homemade hair or skincare treatments as you can.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)
Most shampoos and hand soaps include an industrial ingredient called Sodium Lauryl Sulphate. Other than that, it’s the same chemical that’s also in-floor cleaning solutions and engine cleaning solvents. This chemical has been related to endocrine disruption, skin irritations, neurotoxicity, and even cancer. The easiest way to avoid this chemical is to seek ‘SLS-free’ labelled products.
Synthetic Colours
To make cosmetic products more attractive, synthetic colours are being added. Whether it’s your choice of lipsticks, hair colours, eye pencils, eye makeups, or other cosmetics, they could contain hazardous colouring compounds in them. Besides, such compounds might also have cancerous properties.
Final Thoughts
The chemicals listed above are ones to be wary about when selecting products to apply to your skin. However, since they’re prevalent among many products these days, it might be best to choose safer and natural options that work just as well as those you were previously using. You can also find natural products for your skincare routine. If you do, watch to observe how it benefits your skin and your body as a whole.
