Our skin is our largest organ, absorbing much of what we apply to it. But have you ever considered how conventional skincare products may be affecting not just your skin, but your overall health? Many mainstream beauty products contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can interfere with our hormones and contribute to a range of health concerns.

What Are Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are substances that interfere with the normal function of our hormonal system. These chemicals can mimic or disrupt hormones, leading to imbalances that affect everything from menstrual cycles to metabolism and mood. Common EDCs found in skincare and cosmetics include parabens, phthalates, PEGs, and synthetic fragrances. Even in small amounts, chronic exposure to these chemicals can have significant consequences over time. 

How Do EDCs Impact Your Health?

Our endocrine system is delicate and complex, playing a crucial role in regulating your body’s functions including reproductive health, stress responses, and metabolism. When endocrine disruptors enter our system, they can:

• Disrupt Menstrual Cycles: EDCs have been linked to irregular periods, worsened PMS symptoms, and even conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis 

• Affect Fertility: Research has shown a possible association between a high concentration of EDC in sub-fertile individuals or couples.

• Contribute to Hormonal Acne & Skin Issues: The pathogenesis of acne involves several hormonal pathways. EDC’s influence these pathways, contributing to acne and other skin issues such as dryness. 

• Increase the Risk of Hormone-Related Diseases: Long-term exposure to EDCs has been associated with a higher risk of breast cancer, thyroid dysfunction, and metabolic disorders like insulin resistance.

How Do Endocrine Disruptors Affect Hormonal Function?

Endocrine disruptors interfere with hormone activity by modifying normal hormone levels, either by increasing or decreasing their production, or by altering the way hormones move through the body. These disruptions can impair the ability of hormones to perform their necessary functions, leading to imbalances that may affect overall health.

Choosing Safer Skincare

The good news is that you can reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals by making conscious choices about the products you use daily. Opting for non-toxic, fragrance-free skincare—like FUCA—helps protect your endocrine system while nourishing your skin with clean, effective ingredients.

Since trialling FUCA’s skincare line, my skin feels deeply hydrated,radiant and I strongly align with their mission and vision for their brand.

Your skincare routine is more than just a beauty ritual—it’s an investment in your long-term health. By eliminating EDC’s from your products, you not only protect your skin but also safeguard your overall health and hormone balance.

Are you ready to make the switch? Your skin and hormones will thank you for it! 

References

Ahn, C. and Jeung, E.-B. (2023). Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Disease Endpoints. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(6), p.5342. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24065342.

Green, M.P., Harvey, A.J., Finger, B.J. and Tarulli, G.A. (2021). Endocrine disrupting chemicals: Impacts on human fertility and fecundity during the peri-conception period. Environmental Research, 194, p.110694. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2020.110694.

Hassan, S., Thacharodi, A., Priya, A., Meenatchi, R., Hegde, T.A., R, T., Nguyen, H. and Pugazhendhi, A. (2024). Endocrine disruptors: Unravelling the link between chemical exposure and Women’s reproductive health. Environmental Research, [online] 241, p.117385. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2023.117385.

Rao, A., Douglas, S.C. and Hall, J.M. (2021). Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, Hormone Receptors, and Acne Vulgaris: A Connecting Hypothesis. Cells, [online] 10(6), p.1439. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/cells10061439.