What does endocrine disruptor mean?
An endocrine disruptor (ED) is a substance that alters the functions of the hormonal system, particularly reproduction, and induces harmful effects on the health of an organism or its descendants.
A major topic of current interest is that endocrine disruptors act in a way that is toxic and has never been seen before. Hormones affect the hormonal system at extremely low doses, meaning there is no threshold dose for these toxic substances. Furthermore, we are exposed to a multitude of substances (food, cosmetics, packaging, paints, etc.) that together can produce a harmful "cocktail effect." These interactions between different substances and the very long time it takes for signs of toxicity to appear make it even more difficult to develop evidence and implement regulations for endocrine disruptors. Adding to these difficulties is the weight of the chemical industry lobby.
Another peculiarity of these substances is that they are particularly toxic to growing organisms. Therefore, they should be avoided as a priority in pregnant women, children and adolescents.
The most well-known disruptors are parabens, phenoxyethanol, triclosan, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylhydroxytoluene (BHT), synthetic UV filters, and phthalates. We'll take you through these molecules, which are responsible for early puberty, decreased fertility, genital malformations, obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Parabens are preservatives found in industrial cosmetic products and also in the food industry. According to several studies, they promote breast cancer, like most endocrine disruptors, and they disrupt the endocrine and reproductive systems. Many cosmetic companies have chosen to remove them and place "paraben-free" on their packaging. However, it's important to see what they're being replaced with...
Phenoxyethanol is a chemical preservative. Since 2002, it has been subject to European regulations; its concentration is limited to 1%. It is recognized as an allergen. It can cause eczema and hives, and, more seriously, it poses carcinogenic risks, fertility problems for men, and fetal toxicity.
Another chemical preservative, triclosan, is widely used in toothpaste . It is likely to be an endocrine disruptor by affecting thyroid function. It also forms carcinogenic residues and is bioaccumulative, meaning the body cannot eliminate it.
These preservatives, which are contested for their toxicity, can be replaced by preservatives authorized by the European organic label Cosmos (benzyl alcohol and dehydroacetic acid) and natural preservatives such as Vitamin E.
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are two food additives that protect cosmetics from oxidation. They are believed to carry carcinogenic and toxic risks and mimic the activity of estrogen.
Another endocrine-disrupting substance, synthetic UV filters, "absorb" light. They are controversial because, in addition to being endocrine disruptors, they are not biodegradable and pollute our oceans. Furthermore, they are found in cosmetic products that are not intended for sun protection.
Phthalates are particularly dangerous for pregnant women. They are toxic to the developing genitals of male fetuses. In cosmetics, they are present in synthetic fragrances and PET and PBT plastic packaging. To avoid them, choose natural fragrances and packaging made of glass (recyclable) or PE and PP plastic.
All these endocrine disruptors are worrying consumers. France, despite being a leader in health protection against these endocrine disruptors, is fighting to ban these substances. It is struggling to get a law passed by the European Commission... While waiting for these substances to disappear, we recommend that you check the label of your cosmetic products (list of ingredients to ban from your cosmetics) or opt for cosmetics certified organic by recognized organizations (Ecocert, Cosmebio, Natrue, etc.)
One thing is certain, urgent measures must be taken...