They're invisible, yet so prevalent in our everyday products! Health authorities have been sounding the alarm about endocrine disruptors for several years now. Should we be alarmed? Not necessarily, because there are now simple solutions for identifying them and natural remedies to replace them.
What is an endocrine disruptor?
An endocrine disruptor (ED) is a chemical substance that, even in very small doses, can interfere with our hormonal system. These microscopic molecules can mimic, block, or alter the action of our natural hormones, thus disrupting the balance of our body.
Their effects on health are numerous: fertility problems, thyroid disorders (goiter, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism), early puberty, increased risk of hormone-dependent cancers (breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men), or even developmental disorders in children.
Although the entire population is affected by the harmful consequences of endocrine disruptors, pregnant women, children and adolescents are particularly sensitive to the hormonal disruptions they cause.
This is why it is strongly recommended that expectant mothers limit their exposure to endocrine disruptors as much as possible during pregnancy .
Why are endocrine disruptors present in cosmetics?
Endocrine disruptors are present in cosmetic products (facial care, body care, hair care, and dental hygiene products) for technical reasons: they give these products a pleasant texture and fragrance, extend their shelf life, and preserve their active ingredients. They are also chosen for their low cost and proven effectiveness in industrial formulations.
For example :
- Parabens are used as preservatives.
- Chemical UV filters protect the various formulas from the sun's rays.
- Certain molecules called “phthalates” are used to fix perfumes.
Despite scientific warnings, regulations remain insufficient. The European Union has banned certain substances recognized as endocrine disruptors, but many others remain authorized due to a lack of scientific consensus or validated alternatives.
Also check out our article on endocrine disruptors in traditional perfumes , a revealing observation about practices that persist despite advanced knowledge of the subject.
Ingredients to absolutely avoid
To avoid them, you need to know about them.
Here is a list of substances considered to be endocrine disruptors and most frequently found in cosmetics:
- Parabens: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben.
- Phthalates: often hidden under the generic term “parfum” (fragrance) .
- Triclosan: an antibacterial agent still used in some toothpastes or deodorants .
- Benzophenone-1 and -3: UV filters present in sunscreens and sun products in general.
- Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) and other cyclic silicones.
- Octocrylene: a sunscreen suspected of releasing toxic compounds over time.
- Phenoxyethanol: controversial preservative , authorized but monitored.
- Alkylphenols: used as emulsifiers or surfactants , they are particularly persistent in the environment.
- BHA and BHT: synthetic antioxidants often added to prevent oils from going rancid.
As you may have gathered, endocrine disruptors (EDs) are not always clearly labeled. For example, the term "fragrance" can conceal problematic substances. The best approach is therefore to decipher labels or use reliable analytical tools.
Read also: Regulations on endocrine disruptors: Understanding and complying .
How to choose cosmetics without endocrine disruptors?
Fortunately, there are some simple solutions for adopting a healthy beauty routine:
1. Learn to read the INCI list on labels
The INCI list is mandatory on cosmetic products. This is the list of ingredients found on the product label, or, if it's too small (on a nail polish, for example), available on the brand's website. Here are some tips when deciphering the INCI list of products:
- Opt for products with short ingredient lists.
- Look for the presence of vegetable oils or natural butters, and avoid products with overly complex names.
- Avoid vague terms like "parfum" or "fragrance" without further specification.
With a little practice, you quickly learn to spot questionable formulations and make more informed choices, even in supermarkets. Ideally, you should focus on the transparency of the ingredients, without falling for misleading marketing promises.
To learn more and how to decipher the INCI list , please refer to our dedicated article on the subject.
2. Use special applications
As with food, there are free apps that will allow you to scan your products and, consequently, detect the presence of endocrine disruptors:
- Yuka
- INCI Beauty
Obviously, these tools are not infallible, but they will guide you towards a good first approach to sorting through your toiletry and/or makeup bag.
3. Rely on trusted labels
While there is no label specifically for endocrine disruptors, some are particularly stringent regarding these substances. These labels guarantee the absence of endocrine disruptors in certified products, such as:
- Cosmos Organic
- Nature & Progress
- EU Ecolabel
Beware of misleading labels: the terms "organic" or "natural" are not enough. Only a certified label provides a real guarantee.
Healthy and effective alternatives
When experts recommend avoiding endocrine disruptors, it doesn't mean you have to completely give up the pleasure or effectiveness of a good beauty routine. Quite the opposite: adopting healthier skincare products often allows you to rediscover pleasant textures, natural scents, and better skin tolerance.
It's also an opportunity to reconnect with simple, sensory, and body-friendly gestures. A streamlined yet well-thought-out routine is often enough to achieve more balanced, less reactive, and visibly healthier skin.
Many effective natural ingredients can be used as excellent replacements:
- Jojoba oil, which rebalances sebum production.
- Shea butter, which deeply nourishes the skin without clogging pores.
- Aloe vera, known for its highly moisturizing and soothing properties for all skin types.
- Essential oils and serums, which are used with caution, but which remain very effective in small quantities.
Our routine tip:
Morning: gentle sulfate-free cleanser + organic moisturizing cream.
Evening: makeup removal with vegetable oil + natural facial treatment.
Weekly: homemade mask made with green or white clay.
Read also: The ethical and sustainable aspects of aroma-perfume production.
Protecting yourself without stressing out
As you will have understood, endocrine disruptors are indeed present in the cosmetics we use daily, but we can absolutely avoid them without going to extremes or becoming paranoid.
It is above all about making informed choices, adapted to your needs, those of your skin and your convictions.
Key takeaways
- Learn to recognize suspicious ingredients.
- Trust transparent labels and brands.
- Gradually incorporate healthier alternatives.
- Changing your habits doesn't happen overnight. The important thing is to move forward at your own pace, mindfully.
Read also: The effects of endocrine disruptors on the environment: A detailed perspective