Endocrine disruptors are becoming an increasingly recurring topic in health conversations. Nowadays, with all the information available and existing on taking care of one's body, discovering what they are and what effects they have on people is simple. However, when you start researching them, it is easy to feel overwhelmed: are they everywhere? What ingredients should we avoid? Which products can be used without risks?
The solution is to gradually change the toxic elements used on a daily basis and learn to make more health-conscious decisions. In this text, we show you what can be good starting points to begin taking action and adapt your lifestyle to a much healthier one.
What are endocrine disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are substances capable of interfering with the proper functioning of the hormonal system. They work by mimicking the action of hormones, blocking them, or altering their operation. All of this causes them to have very detrimental health effects, both in the short and long term.
These substances are found in ingredients present in different areas of daily life. Exposure to them can occur through different routes, such as food, water, or cosmetics.
The endocrine system is one of our body's great communication networks, and hormones participate in processes as important as growth or reproduction. Therefore, if this system is interfered with for various reasons, it could pose a problem for the proper overall functioning of the body.
The first step to reducing exposure to these substances is to be aware of this information. Eliminating all products that contain endocrine disruptors overnight is complicated, but it is recommended to gradually reduce those exposures that can be easily avoided. This is where the choice of cosmetics can be a key point and make a difference.
What are the most well-known endocrine disruptors?
There is no single list of "the worst endocrine disruptors" applicable to all products that contain them. However, there are groups of substances that have received special scientific and even regulatory attention. These are the main ones you should know about to be able to avoid:
- Phthalates: they are a family of substances used, among other functions, to soften plastics. Many of them are included in conventional cosmetics and fragrances. This material is often linked to infertility problems.
- Parabens: these are preservatives added to cosmetics to prevent the growth of microorganisms. However, they are very powerful endocrine disruptors and are linked to breast cancer.
- Silicones: this is a component used in cosmetics, especially in hair products, because it improves the appearance of the hair. Its problem lies in the fact that it prevents the scalp from regenerating and can end up clogging skin pores.
- Aluminum salts: this is the ingredient most used in antiperspirants, but it blocks sweat glands and various studies link it to breast cancer.
- Petroleum derivatives: they give a false sensation of hydration and even clog skin pores, preventing the elimination of toxins.
Where to start to reduce endocrine disruptors?
As we have already explained, changing all your habits overnight is complicated and unnecessary. It is a long process, and for this reason, it is recommended to start with those products that are used every day. The main recommendations for gradually eliminating toxic products are as follows:
1. Start with your toiletry bag
Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, cream, sunscreen, perfume... These are products that can be part of our daily routine and that come into direct contact with our skin.
To start eliminating endocrine disruptors, check the cosmetic products you use frequently. This is the first step to reducing avoidable exposures.
At Banbu, all products are natural and free of toxic ingredients and endocrine disruptors. Changing these products in your toiletry bag can be the first of the alternatives you choose to be able to enjoy an effective routine without harmful and unnecessary ingredients.
2. Learn to read the INCI
You don't need to become a chemist to understand your cosmetics. By law, all of them must have an INCI, which is the list of ingredients that formulate it. Learn to recognize certain names to buy products with better judgment.
Transparency in formulas is key. Choose brands that keep this in mind and that share information about the ingredients they use.
3. Don't forget to check the packaging
Some substances with endocrine activity, such as BPA and other related compounds, have been used in certain plastic materials that often serve as packaging. Exposure to these substances can occur through different everyday products, such as pre-packaged food.
4. Even water can contain them
More and more people are recommending the use of water filters, as many industrial waste products that contain toxic substances can end up in the water we drink every day.
5. Pay attention to cleaning products
Although starting by changing the cosmetic products used on a daily basis is usually the easiest step, these are not the only products in which substances of concern can be found. Household cleaning items often also contain ingredients that are not good for your health.
The use of these products is usually frequent, so another way to eliminate endocrine disruptors and move towards a healthier home is to check which cleaning products are used and what their composition is.
Gradually changing the products you use for cleaning for others with a cleaner formulation and better ingredients is a step that will have great benefits for your health.
6. Prioritize fresh foods and avoid heating food in plastic
Food is another area where we can make small decisions to reduce certain exposures. Whenever possible, it is recommended to prioritize fresh foods and minimize the consumption of ultra-processed products. This habit can be easy to maintain and make a big difference.
A more conscious routine starts with small decisions
Reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors is a long process, but one that will make a big difference in your health. We live surrounded by many products that contain them, so the first thing is to become aware and start looking for alternatives.
The goal is to be informed in order to identify exposures that can be avoided and make more conscious decisions. Cosmetics is the best place to start, as they are products we use every day.
At Banbu, all our products are formulated with natural ingredients and under a philosophy that seeks to take care of the skin and hair without resorting to endocrine disruptors.
Changing one product may seem like a small gesture. But when that product is part of your daily routine, choosing it consciously is also a way to take care of yourself. It is about starting with what you can change today.
