Non-exhaustive list of endocrine disruptors
- Alkylphenols:
Present in pesticides, paints, detergents, PVC but also in our everyday products: shaving cream, aftershave care, cosmetics, hair dye... Alkylphenol imitates estrogen hormones and accumulates in the body, which alters fertility in men and can trigger thyroid disorders (congenital hypothyroidism) in newborn babies. In nature, a study by the Environment Health Network has shown that this endocrine disruptor feminizes male fish that were intoxicated with it.
- BHA / BHT or Butylated hydroxyanisole
BHA is a preservative that helps preserve fatty products. Neurotoxic and implicated in the development of cancers (both, kidneys and skin), BHA has been replaced by manufacturers with BHT (butylhydroxytoluene), which is just as dangerous for health. They are classified as endocrine disruptors due to their mimicry of estrogen and their interaction with the nervous system, triggering sensitivity to allergies and eczema. BHA and BHT are found in many cosmetics, in cereals, margarine, chewing gum and in dehydrated soups…
- Bisphenol A / BPA
We have heard a lot about this endocrine disruptor because of its presence in baby bottles and its poisoning of infants. Once ingested, it contaminates the body and interferes with it. What is worth to Bisphenol A to join the list of endocrine disruptors, it is these effects which disrupt the sex hormones in boys and girls. This estrogenic molecule causes genital deformities in babies, behavioral disorders such as hyperactivity and depression in children, breast and prostate cancers, type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is also one of the causes of precocious puberty in young girls. In adult men, it interferes with the reproductive system, increasing infertility problems and decreasing sperm quality. Bisphenol A is mainly found in: tins, cans, toothpaste, baby bottles and heat-resistant plastic packaging
- Cadmium
Cadmium is a poor metal found in different forms in plastics, colored glass, PVC, pesticides, electronic circuits, but also in places where you would least expect it: drinking water, tobacco, fruit seafood, cereals, milk, peanuts… Cadmium is an endocrine disruptor due to its estrogenic capacities. But it is also carcinogenic (promotes the appearance of cancer) and triggers serious respiratory problems. Ingested in high doses, it is extremely toxic to the liver, pancreas and kidneys. In the second half of the 20th century, there were serious food poisonings because of this metal, in contact with liquids such as wine or orange juice, large doses of cadmium particles were detached and ended up being ingested by people, causing serious complications.
- PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ether)
Brominated chemicals, PBDEs are used by manufacturers to retard flames on highly flammable products such as plastics or fabrics. Many everyday objects are treated with it: mattresses, furniture, pajamas, toys, curtains. They join the list of endocrine disruptors because they decrease the functioning of the thyroid gland, ovaries and sperm. They can cause learning, memory and hyperactivity problems in babies and young children
- Mercury
A well-known chemical element, mercury is a poor metal that we often find in thermometers, batteries, light bulbs, but also in certain skin lightening creams or antiseptic products. they disrupt the functions of the thyroid, which prevents the proper development of the fetus and causes serious neurological disorders such as cognitive, motor or memory problems.
- Parabens
All consumers of cosmetics, whether care creams or simple shower gel, are familiar with this chemical substance. It is used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties in washing products, medicines and also certain processed foods. Endocrine disruptor with estrogenic capacity, in addition to altering the quality of sperm, paraben pierces the skin and causes serious sensitivities, skin irritations and allergies...
- Phthalates
Chemical substances used as a plasticizer in industry (shower curtains, packaging, paints, etc.) but also as a fixative in cosmetics (nail polish, lacquers, etc.). Due to their disruptive functions, Phthalates have been banned in children's toys and childcare articles. They are very toxic to the brain, reproductive functions, respiratory and nervous system. In poisoned young children, they modify the thyroid function, triggering genital malformations and precocious puberty. It is also implicated in allergy and asthma attacks triggered by sensitization in children.
- Lead
A well-known heavy metal, lead is used in pipes, paints, some toys, electronic equipment or building materials. Neurotoxic, it pollutes the body by accumulating and causes serious fertility problems. Altering the nervous and reproductive system, it has been implicated in cases of miscarriages, but also mental retardation...
- Teflon and perfluorinated compounds
Perfluorinated compounds are surfactants recognized for their high thermal stability. Used as a waterproofing agent, protective varnish against fat and non-stick, they are found in particular in kitchen utensils, frying pans, microwave packaging, raincoats, sportswear, but also in body creams and dental care. Teflon and perfluorinated compounds are considered endocrine disruptors because they mimic female hormones (estrogen) and thyroid hormones, altering the nervous system of fetuses and causing serious birth weight issues. They are also implicated in certain cancers and in high cholesterol levels. These compounds are also very harmful to the brain and go so far as to modify our response to stress...
- Triclosan
Antibacterial and disinfectant widely used in cosmetics, it is found in soaps, toothpastes, cosmetics, shaving creams, deodorants, make-up removers but also in sportswear, sponges and toys. Triclosan is added to the list of endocrine disruptors because of these blocking functions on thyroid hormones. It is also incriminated in cases of resistance to antibiotics but also liver problems, strangely resembling the effect of cirrhosis.
- Phytoestrogen compounds
Of natural origin, phytoestrogen compounds are found in cereals such as soybeans. They have the ability to mimic estrogen and inhibit androgens. This alters the hormonal functioning of the man and his reproductive capacities. Although few studies * have been published on this case, many scientists are wondering about its compounds with estrogenic principles, which are found in water but also in the meats we eat, due to the farms that use the Soy to feed their animals.
Endocrine disruptors in cosmetics: What are they for ?
- Silicones :
Texturizing agent present in many shampoos, face creams and deodorants, present on the labels under the names of: cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasiloxane, dimethicone, siloxane or Methicone. It has been shown that they are dangerous for the reproductive functions, especially if ingested via sprays, powders, aerosols, etc.
- Parabens :
Antibacterial and antifungal present in many hygienic care and makeup. hydroxybenzoic acid esters, it bears the name of Butylparaben, EthulParaben, (ethyl) propylparabens, MethylParaben and Propylparaben, or are attached to the word potassium and sodium. It is also found under the name Sodium Benicilate or Paraoxybenzoate, 4-hydroxybenzoate and the codes E214, E215, E216, E217, E218 or E219.
The designation “paraben-free” in no way excludes the presence of other preservatives (natural or synthetic) with potentially allergenic or toxic effects!
- Triclosan :
Used as an antimicrobial, frequently found in baby wipes. It is to be absolutely avoided for pregnant women and babies.
- BHA / Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA:
Used as a preservative and to give off a pleasant smell, it is very often used in make-up.
- BHT :
A great replacement for BHA for manufacturers, their compounds being relatively similar, Ancres (the National Health Security Agency) describes it as just as toxic as BHA.
- Phthalates :
Fixing agents, it is found in perfumes, it is not always indicated on the list of ingredients, you have to look for the mentions “fragrance” or PET and PVC on the packaging.
- Alkylphenols :
Used for its emulsifying properties, it is very present in cleansers, shaving foams and styling products. It is listed on the label as Nonylphenol or any derivative of NONOXYNOL
- Resorcinol / Phenylenediamine:
Compound of the hair dyes, Resorcinol is present on the label as P-Phenylenediamine 1,3-Benzenediol, Resorcin, 1,3-Dihydroxybenzene, M-Hydroquinone, 3-Phenylenediol, 3-Hydroxyphenol and M-dihydroxybenzene. It has been shown that these substances are extremely* allergenic in animals but also in humans by triggering serious reactions, eczema attacks and by disturbing the thyroid.
- Chemical UV filters:
Used in sunscreen products, they can be found in certain summer shampoos and sun protection day creams (SPF), they are called: benzophenone-1, benzophenone-3, oxybenzone, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor or 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor, homosalate. Studies have shown disturbances in estrogen and thyroid function. they are often used in lip sticks and in products dabbed with the famous marketing slogan: paraben-free. These endocrine disruptors are all the more dangerous as they are present in products which are in prolonged contact with the mucous membranes and then penetrate into the body. (which are diffused in the body throughout this contact.)
- Lilial and Butylphenyl Methylpropional:
Used as fragrant agents in various make-ups, they are present on the label in the form of Butylphenyl Methylpropional or BMHCA.
- METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE (MIT), METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE (MCIT):
Classified as the allergens that caused the most damage in 2013, used by manufacturers to replace parabens, they should be totally avoided, due to their high toxicity and carcinogenic effects.
Sulphates: Sodium laureth sulphate irritating foaming agent, they alter the functioning of the hydrolipidic film of the skin: protective barrier against bacteria and fungi.
- Lavender and tea tree essential oils:
Although we are at the beginning of the studies, they are suspected of being endocrine disruptors. These very powerful and concentrated substances have been implicated in 3 cases of gynecomastia in little boys. Tea tree and lavender essential oils have been shown to influence estrogen-sensitive cells…
Source: https://endocrine-disruptor.org