In this article:
Even though this doesn’t seem like something that would matter, your day-to-day use of lotions, serums, shampoos and sunscreens may influence your reproductive health. The chemicals in these soaps absorb into your skin and may end up in your blood, which can upset your hormones over time.
How Skincare Products Can Impact Your Hormones
Let’s understand skincare first. Most people use a cleansing product, anti-ageing cream, moisturiser, and sunscreen daily. A large portion of these products passes through the skin and gets absorbed.You’ll find that many have endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which may stop your body’s hormones from doing their jobs. By imitating or blocking hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, these disruptors can change how a woman’s body handles ovulation, implantation, and pregnancy.
Some key concerns:
- Parabens (used as preservatives) can act like weak oestrogens and have been found in breast tissue and urine samples.
- Fragrance compounds, often hidden under the word “parfum,” may contain phthalates, which have been linked to irregular cycles and lower egg quality.
- Oxybenzone, found in chemical sunscreens, has been linked to hormonal changes in both women and men.
What About Haircare? Yes, It Matters Too
We rinse off hair products faster than we do skincare, yet both can come into contact with our scalp, which has blood vessels that can take chemicals in.The issue with many shampoos, conditioners, and styling products is twofold:
- Harmful chemicals like sulphates, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are common in these products.
- Some ingredients (like sodium lauryl sulphate) can act as penetration enhancers, making it easier for other toxic ingredients to enter your body.
Hair dyes, particularly permanent ones, may contain resorcinol and PPD (p-phenylenediamine), which have raised concerns for their potential to disrupt hormones, although evidence here is still evolving.
However, note that most of these observations are based on animal studies or observational data. More research is needed to confirm the full impact on human fertility.
Ingredients to Watch Out for in All Beauty Products
Whether it’s a face cream or a conditioner, certain ingredients show up again and again, and they’re the ones to be especially cautious about when fertility is a concern.Here are some common red flags to look for:
- Phthalates: Often hidden in “fragrance”; linked to reduced egg quality and lower sperm counts.
- Parabens: Found in lotions and creams; mimic oestrogen.
- Triclosan: An antibacterial agent; linked to altered hormone levels.
- Formaldehyde-releasing agents: Like DMDM hydantoin, may impact fertility and pregnancy.
- Oxybenzone and Avobenzone: Common in chemical sunscreens; potential hormone disruptors.
- BPA: Not in products themselves but often in plastic packaging; known to affect reproductive hormones.
- Heavy metals: Especially in herbal or traditional products; toxic to reproductive systems.
Fertility Isn’t Gender Specific
While women’s reproductive health is usually the focus of fertility conversations, many of these same chemicals affect men as well.Studies have linked phthalate exposure to:
- Lower testosterone levels
- Reduced sperm motility and concentration
- Altered hormone production
So if you're planning for a baby, it's worth looking into both partners’ grooming routines. Shampoos, deodorants, and aftershaves all count.
What You Can Do Instead?
You don’t need to toss everything in your bathroom cabinet overnight, but small, consistent changes can help reduce the overall chemical load on your body.Here’s how to start:
1. Read labels, even if it takes time
Start recognising common culprits like parabens, phthalates, and sulphates. If the ingredient list is vague or full of long chemical names, be cautious.2. Switch to cleaner alternatives gradually
Look for products labelled:- Fragrance-free or naturally scented
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS/SLES-free
- Mineral-based sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
3. Cut back on how many products you use
The fewer layers you apply, the fewer potential toxins your body has to process. Sometimes, a simple routine is best.4. Store products in glass or BPA-free containers
Packaging matters too, especially when it comes to hormone-related issues.5. Look for trusted certifications
Third-party seals like “EWG Verified,” “USDA Organic,” or “COSMOS Organic” can offer some reassurance about ingredient safety.There’s no need to fear everyday skincare or haircare routines, but being informed can make a difference. While many factors affect fertility, personal care products are just one of them. Choosing gentler options for skin and hair may offer added support for reproductive health, especially when combined with a balanced lifestyle and mindful habits.
FAQs on How Your Haircare and Skincare Products Could Be Affecting Your Fertility
- Are expensive “clean beauty” brands always safer for fertility?
Not necessarily. A lot of high-priced products may have ingredients that are not easy to understand. You should look at the label, not only the price, while shopping. - How soon should I make changes to my routine if I’m planning to conceive?
It's recommended to steer clear of these harmful products at least 6 months before you consider conceiving. It allows your body to remove any chemicals that may change your hormone balance. - Is it enough to just switch skincare products, or should I change my haircare too?
Both matter. Since harmful ingredients are common across categories, switching to safer options in both skincare and haircare gives you the best chance of minimising exposure.
