Sometimes, while trying to take care of our skin a little too much, we tend to forget that some skincare habits may be actually affecting our health in some way, unknowingly. From mindless use of essential oils to chemical-laden fragrance in products \u2013 some skincare ingredients can actually disrupt your hormones. A dermatologist says being aware of such harmful ingredients can be a step towards better skin and overall health.<\/p>\n
Skincare habits that can disrupt hormones<\/h2>\n
According to Dermatologist and Skin Specialist Dr Rinky Kapoor<\/a>, there are certain small skincare habits<\/a> that people may use every day without knowing how it may be affecting their hormones. In an interview to Health Shots, the expert outlines seven such habits and warns against indiscriminate use.<\/p>\n A study in <\/span>Environmental Health Perspectives<\/span><\/a> found that repeated exposure to certain substances can accumulate, leading to hormonal imbalances. To avoid these issues, choose brands that are clear about their ingredients. \u201cLook for natural or organic options that do not contain questionable chemicals,\u201d Dr Kapoor tells Health Shots.<\/span><\/p>\n The desire for quick results can lead to over-exfoliating our skin. But doing this too much and too often can damage our skin\u2019s natural barrier. \u201cThis can cause inflammation and increase cortisol levels, our body\u2019s primary stress hormone<\/a>\u201c, says Dr Kapoor. High cortisol not only damages our skin, making it look dull and tired, but also affects other hormones that control sleep, mood, and metabolism. <\/span>The dermatologist suggests \u201climiting exfoliation to 2-3 times a week which allows your skin to naturally heal and renew itself. your skin is like a sensitive ecosystem; taking your time helps keep it healthy and balanced.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Retinoids have become popular in skincare because they can help reduce signs of ageing. However, they can also pose risks, mainly if used without proper guidance. \u201cSome forms, like topical and oral synthetic retinoids, can affect hormone-sensitive processes in the body\u201d, says Dr Kapoor. For example, isotretinoin can change hormone levels. This medication is not safe to use during pregnancy due to associated risks. <\/span>Before starting a retinoid routine, it\u2019s good to talk to a dermatologist. \u201cThey can help you create a skincare plan that meets your hormonal health needs\u201d, says the dermat. This way, you can achieve smoother skin without risking your health.<\/span><\/p>\n Essential oils have become very popular because many people believe they offer natural benefits. However, not all essential oils are the same. Lavandin and tea tree oil, which are often used, can affect hormones. A study published in <\/span>Frontiers in Environmental Science<\/span><\/a> has found that they can have estrogen-like effects and block male hormones. In rare cases, using these oils has been linked to breast growth in young boys. Be careful with essential oils. Always dilute them properly, and watch how often you use them.<\/span>\u00a0Each drop is powerful, so being mindful can help protect your skin and hormones.<\/span><\/p>\n Who doesn\u2019t want <\/span>glowing complexion? But spending time in the sun without proper protection can harm your skin and upset your hormonal balance. \u201cWhen you don\u2019t protect your skin well, it can lead to oxidative stress, which can cause inflammation\u201d, says the skin specialist. This inflammation can affect important hormones, such as cortisol and thyroid hormones. <\/span>UV radiation can interfere with the production of vitamin D, which is important for making hormones. \u201cIt is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF every day,\u201d says the skin expert. This protects your skin from harmful rays and supports your endocrine system.<\/span><\/p>\n Have you ever looked at your product labels and seen the words \u2018fragrance\u2019 or \u2018parfum\u2019? These terms often mask a mix of chemicals, many of which can disrupt your hormones<\/a>. \u201cUsing heavily fragranced products every day, such as cleansers and moisturisers, can lead to a harmful buildup in your system, putting extra strain on your hormonal balance,\u201d says the specialist. <\/span>Choose unscented or naturally scented products to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. \u201cYour skin may react better, and avoiding these chemicals could help your skin look clearer and healthier,\u201d shares the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n You may also like<\/p>\n1. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals
It is tempting to trust skincare products just because you find them at your local drugstore or because they have catchy ads. However, many of these products may contain phthalates and synthetic fragrances, which can disrupt hormones and mimic estrogen. Research published by the <\/span>Endocrine Society<\/span><\/a> shows that these chemicals can interfere with hormone production, leading to skin that doesn\u2019t look its best.<\/span><\/h3>\n2. Over-exfoliation<\/span><\/h3>\n
3. Synthetic retinoids<\/span><\/h3>\n
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4. Essential oils<\/span><\/h3>\n
5. Saying no to sun protection<\/span><\/h3>\n
6. The fragrance factor<\/span><\/h3>\n
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