The Hidden Hormone Disruptors in Your Morning Routine.

Think Your Morning Routine is Healthy? You Might Be Surprised ...

We often begin our day with the best intentions – a quick shower, a dab of moisturiser, a touch of make-up, deodorant, perfume, a clean outfit and a coffee on the go.  But have you ever stopped to think what is actually in those everyday products?

Many personal care items, even those labelled as “clean” or “natural,” may contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These hidden compounds can mimic or interfere with our body’s natural hormones, potentially affecting everything from metabolism and fertility to mood, skin health and even long-term disease risk.

What are Endocrine Disruptors?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic substances that interfere with the normal function of the endocrine system – the body’s network of glands and hormones. These substances can mimic, block or alter the production of hormones like estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones and others.

According to the World Health Organization (2021), EDCs may be linked to developmental, reproductive, neurological and immune system issues. These substances have also been implicated in conditions such as cancer and metabolic disorders, making their widespread presence in everyday products a growing concern. The Endocrine Society reports that there are nearly 85,000 human-made chemicals in the world, yet only about one percent of them have been studied for safety. Of these, 1000 or more may act as EDCs due to their potential to interfere with the body’s endocrine system (Endocrine Society, n.d.).

Let’s take a closer look at the most common disruptors hiding in your morning routine – what they are, where they lurk and how they affect your health.

Triclosan

What: An antibacterial agent that prevents or stops bacterial growth and contamination.

Where: Toothpastes, mouthwashes, facial cleansers, aftershaves, deodorants, hand sanitizers, antibacterial soaps and other cosmetics. It is also a part of other materials, including textiles and household products.

Linked to: Hormone disruption, thyroid imbalance, skin irritation, antibiotic resistance, potential immune and developmental issues (Weatherly & Gosse, 2017).

️Although banned by FDA in 2016 in over-the-counter hand soaps and antiseptic washes    

due to safety concerns, it is still used in cosmetics as these products fall outside the scope of the ban.

Parabens

What: A group of synthetic preservatives widely used to prevent the growth of mould, yeast and bacteria in personal care products.

Where: Shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, moisturizers, deodorants, shaving gels, facial cleansers and makeup, especially foundations, powders, mascaras and lip products.

Linked to: Hormone disruption (they mimic estrogen in the body, potentially interfering with hormonal balance), reproductive issues, developmental concerns and breast cancer risk (Haldar et al., 2025).

Phthalates

What: Plasticizers used to make plastics flexible and fragrances last longer.

Where: Anything labelled with “fragrance” or “parfum” - perfumes, deodorants, lotions, shampoos, body and face products, such as lipsticks & eyeshadows and pretty much in every cosmetic that smells nice. Phthalates are also found in plastics, such as plastic water bottles, food containers, soft plastic packaging, flexible wraps like cling film and can leach into food, especially when reused or heated.  

They are also found in coffee machines with plastic tubing or plastic water tanks, especially single-serve pod systems (yes, your Nespresso machine may be one of them!), as well as disposable coffee cups, which are often lined with plastic that contains BPA or its alternatives.

Linked to: Disruption of testosterone production, altered reproductive development and metabolic issues (Wang & Qian, 2021).

BHA and BHT (Butylated Hydroxyanisole and Butylated Hydroxytoluene)

What: Synthetic antioxidants used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics and it is also used as food preservatives.

Where: Lipsticks, eyeliners, creamy make-up formulas as well as many processed foods like breakfast cereals, granola and cereal bars, pre-packed muffins, cakes & pastries, sausages & processed meats.

Linked to: Hormonal disruption, skin irritation, liver toxicity and classified as potential human carcinogens (National Library of Medicine, 2021; Ren et al., 2025).

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

What: A surfactant that makes products foam and is often utilized in cosmetics for its strong cleansing properties.

Where: Toothpastes, shampoos, facial cleansers, body wash, bubble baths, liquid hand soaps, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, multipurpose cleaners and cosmetics, such as primers, liquid makeup, including mascaras and eyeliners.

Linked to: As a skin irritant, it can strip the skin and scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation and allergic reactions. It also disrupts the skin's natural barrier and may cause mouth ulcers, eye irritation, and respiratory irritation (Branco et al., 2005; Asio et al., 2023).

️SLS is toxic to aquatic life and not easily biodegradable!

UV Filters (like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate)

What: Chemical filters that absorb UV radiation.

Where: Sunscreens, SPF moisturizers, lip balms, foundations & tinted moisturizers.

Linked to: Estrogen mimicry, thyroid disruption, hormone-sensitive conditions like endometriosis; possible contribution to early puberty, fertility issues, breast cancer and coral reef damage (Krause et al., 2012).

Heavy Metals (cadmium, mercury, lead, aluminium)

What: Naturally occurring elements found in the earth’s crust, but they can become harmful when they enter the body in elevated amounts. In cosmetics and personal care products, they may be present due to contamination during manufacturing or intentional use, often to enhance colour, texture or product stability (Faber, 2020).

Where: Lipsticks, eyeliners, eye shadows, sunscreen, foundations, nail polish, whitening toothpastes, especially those from unregulated or imported brands.

Linked to: Disruption of estrogen, thyroid & reproductive hormones; developmental and cognitive concerns (especially mercury and lead); increased toxic load and oxidative stress in the body, cancer, immune and respiratory toxicity (Balali-Mood et al., 2021; Jomova et al., 2024).

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS)

What: A group of synthetic chemicals used for their water-, grease- and stain-resistant properties. They are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily.

Where: Long-wear or waterproof make-up, lotions, shaving creams, non-stick cookware (like Teflon-coated pans); stain and water-resistant fabrics, no-iron or wrinkle-free fabrics, food packaging (greaseproof paper, fast food wrappers).

Linked to: Hormone disruption, immune system suppression, fertility, reproductive & developmental issues in children, increased risk of certain cancers, bioaccumulation & long-term health effects (Wee & Aris, 2023; Bline et al., 2024).

Atrazine

What: Herbicide used in agriculture, especially for crops like corn, sugarcane and sorghum. Although banned in over 40 countries, it remains the second most used pesticide in the United States and is still permitted in the UAE for both agricultural and residential use.

Where: Not directly in cosmetics or personal care, but relevant if contaminated water is used for showering, brushing teeth or making coffee. Found in soil, surface water and groundwater in agricultural areas. Unlikely in municipal tap water in the UAE due to desalination, but trace exposure may occur through treated groundwater or irrigation runoff.

Linked to: Has been associated with reproductive dysfunction, behavioural abnormalities, impaired fetal growth, birth defects and cancer, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, breast and prostate cancer (Center for Food Safety, n.d.; Deng et al., 2024).

Dioxins

What: A Group of highly toxic environmental pollutants that belong to the “dirty dozen” – a list of dangerous chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs). They are not intentionally produced, but are byproducts of industrial processes, such as waste incineration, chlorine bleaching of paper, pesticide manufacturing and some chemical production.

Where: Bleached toilet paper and feminine hygiene products (from chlorine bleaching). Animal products, especially in fatty meats, dairy, eggs and fish, as dioxins accumulate in animal fat; contaminated water, soil, packaging materials made with bleached paper and even breast milk due to maternal body burden.

Linked to:  Hormonal disruption, impaired fertility, immune system suppression, skin disorders, developmental delays in children, thyroid dysfunction and certain cancers, like liver, lung or soft tissue sarcoma (Mathew et al., 2025).

️Dioxins rank among the most hazardous persistent organic pollutants, presenting a serious threat due to their long environmental lifespan and capacity for bioaccumulation!

Small swaps, big impact  

 Supporting your hormones doesn’t require overhauling your life overnight. Start small:

• Read labels

  
  

• Choose paraben-free, fragrance-free, phthalate-free, SLS-free beauty products

• Look for certified natural or organic personal care and makeup products

  
  

• Use glass, stainless steel or BPA-free hard plastics labelled #2, #4 or #5

  
  

• Choose stainless steel or glass carafe machines and avoid plastic water tanks.  Coffee machines containing plastic parts BPA, BPS or PVC tubes may also release phthalates.

  
  

• Use cast iron, stainless steel or ceramic-coated pans instead of non-stick

  
  

• Wash new clothes before wearing: choose natural and untreated fabrics

  
  

• Choose better!

Final Thoughts

 Your morning routine is more than a habit. It is an opportunity to support your long-term health. By making informed choices and reading ingredient labels, you can reduce your exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals and feel confident that your daily habits are supporting your well-being.

References

World Health Organization. (2012, June 6). State of the science of endocrine disrupting chemicals 2012. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241505031

Balali-Mood, M., Naseri, K., Tahergorabi, Z., Khazdair, M. R. & Sadeghi, M. (2021). Toxic mechanisms of five heavy metals: mercury, lead, chromium, cadmium and arsenic. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 12.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.643972

Wee, S. Y. & Aris, A. Z. (2023). Environmental impacts, exposure pathways, and health effects of PFAO and PFOS. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety. 267. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115663

World Health Organization. (2023, November 29). Dioxins. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dioxins-and-their-effects-on-human-health

Mathew, N., Somanathan, A., Tirpude, A., Pillai, A. M., Mondal, P. & Arfin, T. (2025). Dioxins and their impact: a review of toxicity, persistence, and novel remediation strategies. Analytical Methods. 8, 1698-1748. https://doi.org/10.1039/D4AY01767F

Jomova, K., Alomar, S. Y., Nepovimova, E., Kuca, K. & Valko, M. (2024). Heavy metals: toxicity and human health effects. Archives of Toxicology. 99, 153-209. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-024-03903-2

Krause, M. Klit, A, Blomberg Jensen, M., Soeborg, T., Frederiksen, H., Schlumpf, M., Lichtensteiger, W., Skakkebaek, N. E. & Drzewiecki, K. T. (2012). Sunscreens: are they beneficial for health? An overview of endocrine disrupting properties of UV-filters. International Journal of Adrology. 35(3), 424-436. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2605.2012.01289.x

Center for Food Safety. (n.d.). Atrazine. https://www.centerforfoodsafety.org/issues/6459/pesticides/atrazine

Deng, S., Chen, C., Wang, Y., Liu, S., Zhao, J., Cao, B. Jiang, D. Iang, Z. & Zhang, Y. (2024). Advances in understanding and mitigating Atrazine’s environmental and health impact: A comprehensive review. Journal of Environmental Management. 365. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121530

DiNardo, J. C. & Downs, C. A. (2018). Dermatological and environmental toxicological impact of the sunscreen ingredient oxybenzone/benzophenone-3. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 17(1), 15-19. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12449

Endocrine Society. (n.d.). Common EDCs and where they are found. https://www.endocrine.org/topics/edc/wht-edcs-are/common-edcs

Bline, A. P., DeWitt, J. C., Kwiatkowski, C. F., Pelch, K.E., Reade, A. & Varshavsky, J. R. (2024). Public Health Risks of PFAS-Related Immunotoxicity Are Real. Current Environmental Health Reports. 11, 118-127. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40572-024-00441-y

Asio, J. R. G., Carcia, J. S., Antonatos, C., Sevilla-Nastor, J. B. & Trinidad, L. C. (2023). Sodium lauryl sulfate and its potential impact on organisms and the environment: A thematic analysis. Emerging Contaminants. 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.emcon.2023.100205

National Library of Medicine. (2021). Butylated Hydroxyanisole. 15^th Report on carcinogens [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK590883

Branco, N., Lee, I., Zhai, H. & Maibach, H. I. (2005). Long-term repetitive sodium lauryl sulfate-induced irritation of the skin: an in vivo study. Contact Dermatitis. 53(5), 278-284. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0105-1873.2005.00703

Ren, J, Li, Z., Li, X., Yang, L., Bu, Z., Wu, Y., I, Y., Zhang, S & Meng, X. (2025). Exploring the mechanisms of the antioxidants BHA, BHT, and TBHQ in hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and neurotoxicity form the perspective on network toxicology. Foods.14(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14071095

Weatherly, L. M. & Gosse, J. A. (2017). Triclosan exposure, transformation, and human health effects. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B. 20(8), 447-469. doi: 10.1080/10937404.2017.1399306

Faber, S. (2020, May 5). The toxic twelve chemicals and contaminants in cosmetics. EWG. https://www.ewg.org/the-toxic-twelve-chemicals-and-contaminants-in-cometics

Haldar, S., Mukherjee, S. & Dey, A. (2025). Never say yes to parabens? A review on paraben compounds in potential human exposure risks. The Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41936-025-00430-z

Wang, Y. & Qian, H. (2021). Phthalates and their impacts on human health. Healthcare. 9(5) doi: 10.3390/healthcare9050603