What Hormone Disruptors are lurking in your cabinet?
When researching ways to feed my body all the “good stuff” ( while eliminating the “bad stuff”) that will keep me healthy, active and happy, I discovered that it was not necessarily just what I was putting into my body, but what I was putting ON my body that might be causing me some not so pleasant health issues. This included endocrine-disrupting hormone imbalances, and worse yet, potential cancer risks.
Our skin is our largest organ and whatever you are putting on it, is being absorbed into your body.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health looked into the skin’s absorption rates of chemicals found in drinking water. It showed that the skin absorbed an average of 64% of total contaminant dosage.
Other studies found the face to be several times more permeable than broad body surfaces and an absorption rate of 100% for underarms and genitalia. And another peer-reviewed study showed 100% absorption for fragrance ingredients. Research has shown that these ingredients are hormone disruptors as well as possible carcinogens.
Did you know that the European Union (EU) has banned hundreds of ingredients in skincare products, while the U.S. has banned only about 11? Let’s face it, these products are not well-regulated by the FDA, and you need to be your own best advocate.
The average woman uses over 10-12 of these products daily. So what’s a woman to do? For starters, read those labels and stay away from skincare products that contain parabens, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate and DEA, mineral oil, fragrances, petroleum, and artificial colors.
It is best to seek out certified organic and natural skincare products. This goes for your family members as well. Limit your exposure and instead stay beautiful and healthy from the inside out with good nutrition, lots of filtered water and a healthy dose of exercise! Here’s lookin’ at you kid! A healthy, glowing, non-toxic you!
For some of my skincare and other hormone support, product recommendations check out my Menopause Market page.
Cheers & Love! XO
Lorraine
