Following up on our recent post about hormones and how they influence our overall well being, today we’re diving into something that often flies under the radar: hormone disruptors hiding in our favourite scents.
Wait—Scents Can Disrupt Hormones?
Yes, they can. Many of the lovely-smelling products we use daily—like perfumes, air fresheners, laundry powders, body scrubs, candles, and even “natural” shampoos—contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can disrupt our body’s natural hormonal balance.
These ingredients are often part of a category known as endocrine disruptors. That means they interfere with the normal function of our hormonal system, mimicking or blocking hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
Common Sources of Hormone-Disrupting Scents
Here are a few everyday items that may contain these hidden disruptors:
- Perfumes and colognes
- Laundry detergents and fabric softeners
- Cleaning sprays and surface wipes
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Body lotions and scrubs
- Candles and room sprays
- Personal care creams (even baby lotions!)
Look for ingredients like:
- “Fragrance” or “Parfum” (a catch-all term for hundreds of undisclosed chemicals)
- Phthalates (used to make scents last longer)
- Synthetic musks and preservatives like parabens or triclosan
Why It Matters
Hormonal imbalances can contribute to a wide range of health issues—from irregular periods and fatigue to mood swings, fertility issues, and even hormone-related cancers. For those recovering from illness, undergoing treatment (such as cancer care), or just aiming for optimal health, reducing exposure to hormone disruptors is a powerful act of self-care.
What You Can Do
Go Fragrance-Free or Choose Truly Natural Scents
- Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” (not just “unscented”)
- Choose items scented with pure essential oils (in moderation)
- Support brands that are transparent with their ingredients
Switch to Low-Tox Alternatives
- Try making your own cleaning sprays with vinegar and lemon
- Use soap nuts or natural laundry powder
- Use plant-based, low-tox body and hair care
Rethink Candles and Air Fresheners
- Opt for beeswax or soy candles scented with essential oils
- Use fresh flowers or herbs (like lavender or rosemary) for natural fragrance
You don’t need to throw out everything at once. Begin by replacing one or two products as they run out. Awareness is the first step. Small, intentional swaps can make a big difference to your health over time.