The products we choose for our skincare can deeply impact our health, especially when it comes to fertility and hormone balance. Many department-store skincare products contain chemicals known as endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with our hormones and fertility. Here’s what to look out for—and what to choose instead—for both women and children to keep your hormones, fertility, and long-term health in balance.
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that mimic or interfere with your body’s hormones, particularly estrogen. When absorbed through the skin, these chemicals can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance, affecting your hormone balance and fertility. Some of the common endocrine disruptors found in skincare products include:
Parabens (e.g., methylparaben, ethylparaben) - Used as preservatives, parabens mimic estrogen and can interfere with hormone regulation.
Phthalates - Often used in fragrances, phthalates can reduce fertility by affecting the production of reproductive hormones.
Triclosan - An antibacterial compound found in hand sanitizers and anti-bacterial soaps, triclosan is linked to hormone disruption and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Oxybenzone and Octinoxate - Common in SPF's, these ingredients have been shown to disrupt estrogen levels and negatively impact reproductive health.
Fragrance - “Fragrance” on a label can include thousands of undisclosed chemicals, many of which are known hormone disruptors.
These chemicals are instantly absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, allowing them to affect your hormone balance, menstrual cycle, and potentially delay or impair your ability to ovulate.
Safer Choices for Hormone-Friendly Skincare
For women seeking to support fertility and overall hormone health, look for skincare products labeled “phthalate-free,” “paraben-free,” “fragrance-free,” and “non-toxic.” Ingredients that are generally safer and supportive of hormone health include:
• Natural oils (like coconut oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil): These nourish the skin without any added chemicals.
• Essential oils for scent instead of synthetic fragrances: Just be sure to use diluted and safe oils, as some can be too strong for sensitive skin.
• Aloe vera and shea butter: These are excellent for hydration and can be very soothing without adding chemical preservatives.
• Mineral-based sunscreens (like those with zinc oxide): These provide sun protection without hormone-disrupting ingredients.
Always read labels and prioritize brands committed to transparency and safety. A great rule of thumb is if you can’t recognize or pronounce an ingredient, look it up or find an alternative.
Why Avoid Endocrine Disruptors for Your Children
Children are particularly vulnerable to endocrine disruptors because their bodies are still developing, and their endocrine systems are especially sensitive. Endocrine disruptors absorbed through skincare products may impact growth, development, and even the onset of puberty. For babies and young children, stick to products that use pure, simple, and natural ingredients like coconut oil or aloe vera for moisturizing, and avoid products with artificial fragrances or preservatives.
In both women, children, and even men, hormone-disrupting chemicals can have lasting effects on reproductive health. By switching to cleaner, natural skincare products, you can support your fertility and create a hormone-friendly environment for your entire family.
If you want to learn more about hormone-healthy skincare products, the best ingredients for your skin type, and how to incorporate them into a skincare routine, check out my course: A Guide To A Hormone Healthy Anti-Aging AM + PM Skincare Routine.
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