Consumer Awareness of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Cosmetics

Cami A. Krier – January 17, 2024

Endocrine disruptors are chemical substances that alter the functioning of the endocrine (hormonal) system and negatively affect the health of humans and animals. These substances can be of either synthetic or natural origin. Exposure to endocrine disruptors can occur from different sources, including food, packaging, individual ingredients, waxes and residues from pesticides, or simple everyday consumer products.



Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) affect hormones and their role in healthy development. They do this in a number of ways: some change the number of hormones in our blood, others change our sensitivity to hormones. Some EDCs block hormones from doing their job altogether, and specific kinds can even mimic the body’s natural hormones, creating imbalance in the rest of our bodily systems. 



Since the 1930s there has been a huge increase in the global production and use of chemicals in many kinds of consumer products. For many decades chemicals could be sold legally without any safety data! Since then, the regulation of chemicals has been slow and full of loopholes, and many chemicals in use still lack the proper safety data. Many widely used chemicals have not yet been tested for endocrine-disrupting effects, and current test methods can provide inconsistent results. Sadly, it’s also difficult to find accurate information about what chemicals are used in what products, as many large companies don’t want consumers to know their toxic secrets.

This has gradually changed in recent years thanks to the creation of the EU’s system for regulating chemicals. Known as REACH, established in 2007, this regulatory system works to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals, while also promoting alternative methods for assessment of chemical substances that reduce the number of tests on animals. REACH has since evolved to reflect the advancement of knowledge regarding various chemicals and their properties, and is becoming a globally recognized standard for regulation of chemical use in consumer product manufacturing.

Federal US regulation on cosmetics hasn’t been updated since the adoption of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act in 1938!

Inevitably, exposure to chemicals from different sources in everyday life is widespread. One such source is the wide range of products listed under the category of "cosmetics;" including makeup, skincare, shampoos, body washes, and different types of popular and widely advertised tanning and sun care products. Consumers, women especially, are encouraged through advertising, brand signalling, and good-old peer pressure, to buy into the myth of everlasting youth - and one of the most alarming consequences is in-utero exposure to these toxic chemicals and carcinogens. The main route of this exposure is repeated absorption through the skin (our largest organ!), with endocrine disruption taking place due to the many substances in cosmetic formulations that have endocrine active properties, in turn negatively affecting our bodies’ natural chemical responses and overall reproductive and hormonal health.



Although some plants show endocrine-disrupting activity, the use of well-selected natural products might reduce the exposure to synthetic chemicals and potential EDCs. Many natural and organic products rely on plant-based ingredients with formulations that intentionally avoid or limit the use of specific synthetic chemicals that have been associated with, or pose the potential to cause health concerns. Organic products are often produced with environmentally friendly practices and adhere to certification standards that require the exclusion of certain synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers during the growing process.

It should be noted that the terms "natural" and "organic" are not regulated uniformly across the cosmetics industry. These labels can be subjective and may not always guarantee the absence of all synthetic chemicals, especially as the biomimetic technologies in product formulation continue to develop (Biomimetic cosmetic ingredients refer to substances used in skincare and beauty products that mimic the structure and function of natural compounds found in the human body or other living organisms... think peptides and growth factors in skincare.)

Today's consumers are demanding transparency and consistent standards in beauty regulations. With a growing awareness of harmful ingredients like parabens and sulfates, individuals are scrutinizing product labels more than ever. Join the movement for safer beauty by advocating for clearer regulations and accountability from brands!

It is becoming ever more crucial to read ingredient lists and choose products from reputable brands with transparent labeling. However, with the industry turning its focus towards clean, ethical & sustainable products and practices, this may lead to safer and more environmentally conscious consumer options and potentially contribute to a decrease in exposure to synthetic compounds that might have unknown or concerning effects on the endocrine system and our overall health.

Reducing the exposure to endocrine disruptors is framed not only in the context of the reduction of health risks, but is also significant as a response to the rise of ethical consumerism and the responsibility of the cosmetics industry in this respect. Ethical brands focused on transparency and sustainability of their ingredient sourcing and production practices are the pioneers in changing both the mindset on responsibility in the beauty industry, as well as consumer awareness and shopping habits. 



When buying products, consumers should stay informed through reputable sources, think critically when scrutinizing product labels, and consider individual preferences and skin sensitivities. Remember, it's more important to find products that align with personal preferences and skin needs more so than what is trending amongst celebrities. Consulting with dermatologists or other healthcare professionals can help in making personalized decisions about skincare and beauty products that are tailored to your specific needs and align with your values as a conscious consumer.

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After some deep research, I have compiled this list of some particular chemical ingredients linked to endocrine disruption that I try to look out for in cosmetics and care products:

1. Ethanolamines (MEA/DEA/TEA and Derivatives) are compounds used in cosmetics as emulsifiers, pH adjusters, and foam stabilizers. Some studies suggest that certain ethanolamines, such as diethanolamine (DEA), may have mild endocrine-disrupting effects. DEA, in particular, has been investigated for its potential to interfere with hormones, although the evidence is not as extensive as for some other substances. More research is needed to fully understand the impact of ethanolamines on the endocrine system.

2. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS Compounds) are a broad group of human-made chemicals that are resistant to heat, water, oil, and grease, and are used in various products, including cosmetics, paints, food packaging, and fire-fighting foam. Certain PFAS have been associated with adverse effects on the immune system and hormonal balance, but more research is needed to establish clear causation. While there is limited specific evidence linking PFAS to endocrine disruption, some studies suggest potential health concerns. PFAS compounds are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time.

3. Phthalates (including DEP, DBP, DEHP) are a large group of compounds used as liquid plasticizers. They are found in hundreds of products including some food packaging, cosmetics, fragrances, children’s toys, and medical device tubing. Cosmetics that may contain phthalates include nail polish, hair spray, aftershave lotion, cleanser, and shampoo.

   • Phalates have been banned from cosmetics in the European Union, but remain prevalent in U.S. products. DEP is widely used in scented products to help the scent linger, although it is rarely found on labels because it is a constituent of the ubiquitous ingredient “fragrance"

   • A significant loophole in federal law allows phthalates (and other chemicals) to be added to fragrances without disclosure to consumers.

4. Parabens are a group of chemicals most commonly used as preservatives, antimicrobials, flavour enhancers, and fragrance ingredients. Exposure to consistent and high levels of certain parabens may cause effects on the spleen and thyroid, damage to the lining of the stomach, and developmental and/or reproductive impacts.


5. Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring substances with hormone-like activity found in some plants; they may have a similar effect to estrogen produced by the body. Soy foods and byproducts contain phytoestrogens and have been linked to cases on increased estrogen in humans. 


6. Triclosan is a chlorinated organic compound with antibacterial and antifungal properties, widely used in household and medical products. Triclosan is incorporated in cosmetics and care products mainly as a preservative, to stop bacteria from growing on the product and spoiling it.

   • Research has found Triclosan to exhibit estrogenic and androgenic activity in laboratory studies. This means that it can mimic or interfere with the action of estrogen and androgen hormones in the body, which are key regulators of the endocrine system.


7. Oxybenzone is used to protect the skin from the sun's harmful effects. It mainly absorbs UVB radiation, which is responsible for sunburn and increased risk of skin cancer, and absorbs short UVA rays, which are mainly responsible for skin ageing. Oxybenzone is considered a hazardous eye irritant, is also known to cause skin allergies and intense reactions and has been shown to affect the hormone production in both men & women, as well as ocean coral.

8. Heavy Metals, including lead, mercury, cadmium, and others, can be found as contaminants in some cosmetics. Exposure to heavy metals has been associated with various health issues, but their direct link to endocrine disruption in cosmetics may vary.

   • Lead, for example, is known to interfere with various physiological processes, including the endocrine system. It can mimic and interfere with the action of hormones in the body.

   • Mercury exposure has been associated with neurotoxicity, and some studies suggest potential effects on the endocrine system, although the evidence is not as extensive.

The beauty industry’s reliance on chemicals with unknown or concerning effects on our health is a reminder that we, as consumers, must take an active role in protecting ourselves. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are hidden in many everyday products, and while regulations are evolving, they still leave significant gaps in transparency and safety. The responsibility, therefore, falls on us to make informed choices.

By educating ourselves on harmful ingredients, reading labels critically, and supporting brands committed to transparency and ethical formulation, we can reduce our exposure and demand a shift in industry standards. Choosing safer, well-formulated products isn’t just about personal health—it’s about using our purchasing power to push the beauty industry toward more responsible and sustainable practices.

The more we demand transparency, the more brands will be forced to listen. Small changes in our buying habits collectively drive industry-wide transformations. So, take action—research the products you use, choose wisely, and be a voice for change. Together, we can create a cleaner, safer future in beauty.