Synergie phytocosmétique does not use any of these ingredients in its products!
The “endocrine system” is the body's system of hormone-secreting organs and tissues. Our health also depends on the proper functioning of this endocrine system.
This system is made up of several organs called glands (composed of endocrine cells), which produce hormones and then release them into the bloodstream. These hormones act as “chemical messengers”, circulating throughout the body.
Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) are chemical substances that can interfere with our hormonal system. Present in many cosmetic products, they pose serious health risks. In this article, we explore the main ingredients to avoid and their potential effects on the body.
Health risks
Endocrine disruptors can mimic or interfere with our body's natural hormones, such as estrogens and androgens. This interference can cause a variety of health problems, including fertility disorders, abnormal development in children, and an increased risk of hormone-dependent cancers such as breast or prostate cancer.
What's more, some endocrine disruptors can affect children's neurological development, leading to cognitive or behavioral disorders. They are also linked to metabolic imbalances, potentially contributing to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
1. Endocrine Disruptors in Cosmetics
- Parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben): Used as preservatives.
- Phthalates (DBP, DEP, DEHP): Used to fix fragrances and plasticize products.
- Triclosan: An antibacterial agent found in soaps and toothpastes.
- Benzophenones (BP-3, oxybenzone): UV filters used in sunscreens.
- Phenoxyethanol: A preservative often used to replace parabens.
- Alkylphenols (nonylphenol, octylphenol): Used as emulsifiers.
- Synthetic musk (musk xylene, musk ketone): Used in perfumes.
- Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (D4, D5): Used for their smoothing properties.
Many cosmetics brands still use ingredients containing endocrine disruptors, although some have begun to reformulate their products in the face of consumer pressure and increasing regulations.
Here are just a few examples of brands that have been reported to use these substances in their products: L'Oréal, Dove, Cerave, Pantene, Neutrogena, Maybelline, Vaseline, Kiehl's, Lush, Yves Rocher, Lancôme, Dior....
2. Endocrine disruptors in foods
- Bisphenol A (BPA): Present in plastics and epoxy resins, often found in cans and plastic bottles.
- Organochlorine pesticides (DDT, chlordecone): Used in agriculture, these substances can persist in food.
- Phthalates: Can migrate into food from plastic packaging or processing equipment.
- Dioxins and furans: Environmental contaminants present in fatty animal products.
- Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs): Flame retardants that can contaminate foodstuffs.
- Perfluorinated (PFOA, PFOS): Used to make packaging resistant to grease (e.g. microwaveable popcorn bags).
- PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls): Formerly used as industrial fluids, they can contaminate certain food products.
3. Endocrine Disruptors in Containers
- Bisphenol A (BPA): Present in plastics (notably polycarbonate) and epoxy resins used for the lining of food cans.
- Phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP): Used to make plastics flexible (PVC).
- Nonylphenols: Used in the manufacture of certain plastics and rubbers.
- Styrene: Component of polystyrene, used in disposable cups and food containers.
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA): Used in non-stick coatings for frying pans and food packaging.
- Benzophenones: Used in certain plastics to stabilize against UV rays.
This list is not exhaustive, but covers the main endocrine disruptors found in cosmetics, foods and containers. Each of these chemicals can have negative effects on health, disrupting the hormonal system and potentially contributing to health problems such as cancer, infertility and developmental disorders. It's advisable to read labels carefully and opt for safer alternatives whenever possible.
A future article will deal with microplastics and cosmetics containers.