Toxins that Attack your Hormonal Health
We are all looking for radiant and youthful skin, but we often fall into the trap of commercial facial serums without thinking about what we are really applying to our skin. These products promise miracles, but what do they hide in their ingredients? The reality is that many of these serums contain toxic substances that can alter our hormones and put our health at risk in the long term.
Endocrine Disruptors: A Silent Threat
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with our body's delicate hormonal system. Leading researcher in this field, Dr. Richard Thompson, warns us: "Endocrine disruptors can be found in a variety of sources, including the skin care products we use every day."
Our endocrine system regulates a wide range of vital functions, from growth and development to metabolism and reproduction. When these endocrine disruptors enter our body through cosmetic products, they can disrupt this extremely delicate system.
As Dr. Nicolás Olea, a renowned expert on endocrine disruptors, warns: "Endocrine disruptors are a growing concern for public health, since they can not only have adverse effects on the current generation, but can also be inherited, potentially affecting the "It is essential to understand and address these risks to protect the health and well-being of generations to come."
The Danger of Parabens
One of the most common toxins in commercial facial serums are parabens. These preservatives are used to extend the shelf life of the product, but they can also mimic our natural hormones. Dr. Lisa Jones, an endocrinology expert, warns: " Parabens have been linked to thyroid disorders and hormonal imbalances." These hormonal intruders infiltrate our skin, often without us being aware of the havoc they wreak on our bodies.
Research has shown that parabens can be absorbed through the skin and detected in human tissues, raising concerns about their long-term effects. Additionally, a disturbing correlation has been found between the use of products containing parabens and an increase in cases of hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility problems.
Parabens can appear on the ingredient lists of skin care and cosmetic products under different names. Some of the names of parabens you might find on the ingredients list include:
- Methylparaben (Methylparaben)
- Ethylparaben (Ethylparaben)
- Propylparaben (Propylparaben)
- Butylparaben (Butylparaben)
- Isobutylparaben (Isobutylparaben)
It is important to carefully review the ingredients list to identify any parabens present. If you are looking for paraben-free products, be sure to look for certificates that guarantee that it is a natural or ecological product with guarantees.
The Silent Ravages of Triclosan
Triclosan is another hormonal intruder lurking in some facial serums. Despite its use as an antibacterial agent, this compound can disturb our endocrine glands, such as the thyroid, and trigger hormonal problems. Dr. Emily Adams, an endocrinology researcher, warns: "Triclosan may be a silent threat to our hormonal health."
Triclosan is a clear example of how chemicals designed to improve hygiene can have unintended consequences on our hormonal system. As this endocrine disruptor builds up in our body, it can affect the function of our hormone glands and contribute to problems such as hypothyroidism and sex hormone imbalance.
If you are looking to identify triclosan in the ingredients list (INCI), you should search for the following terms:
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Triclosan : Sometimes it will be listed simply as "Triclosan" in the ingredients list.
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Irgasan DP300 : This is another trade name that is sometimes used to refer to triclosan.
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5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol : This is the full chemical name for triclosan and may appear on the ingredients list in this form.
The Lamentable Secret of Synthetic Fragrance
Synthetic fragrance, a common ingredient in commercial facial serums, can also hide unwanted toxins. Hormonal health expert Dr. David Smith says, "Synthetic fragrance can contain a variety of unregulated chemicals that can interfere with our hormones." It is crucial to read labels and opt for products with natural fragrances.
Synthetic fragrances are often a mixture of chemicals that are kept secret under the label of "fragrance" or "perfume." These chemicals may include phthalates, known endocrine disruptors. Continued exposure to these synthetic fragrances can have adverse effects on our hormonal health and can trigger skin allergies and respiratory problems.
Synthetic fragrances may appear on the ingredients list of personal care products under various names or generic terms: Fragrance, Parfum, or Aroma.
The biggest problem with this is that the term "Perfume" or "Fragrance" is used to describe both synthetic fragrances and natural fragrances. This is one of the limitations of personal care product labeling regulations, as companies are not required to disclose the exact composition of their fragrances due to intellectual property concerns.
To differentiate between synthetic and natural fragrances in a product, you may need to look for additional clues on the label or the manufacturer's website. But the only way to guarantee this is through a certificate. Natural or organic cosmetics certificates do not allow any synthetic ingredients in their composition or in perfumes. This guarantees that the cosmetics that have this certificate will not contain any type of synthetic perfume in their list of ingredients.
Take Charge of Your Skin Care
So what can we do to protect ourselves? It is essential to be aware of what we apply to our skin. The toxins in commercial facial serums can have long-term consequences on our hormonal health. As informed consumers, we must take control of our skin care and choose products that are safe for our bodies and well-being.
Healthy Alternatives and Conclusion
Fortunately, there are healthy alternatives on the market. More and more companies are committed not only to making highly effective products for our skin but also to considering the effects that the ingredients have on our health and, consequently, on that of the planet.
At Banbu, we have taken a comprehensive approach that encompasses the use of natural and organic ingredients, ethical manufacturing and a firm decision not to test on animals at any point in our production process. Additionally, we are transparent in disclosing information about our products and the ingredients we use, because we believe that consumers have the right to know what they are applying to their skin.