When we want to take care of our health, we spontaneously think of diet, sleep, physical activity, or stress management. Yet, another element is now part of the considerations of many integrative health professionals: the products we apply to our skin every day.
Without falling into extremes, more and more consumers are choosing to pay particular attention to the composition of their cosmetics. Why? Because the skin is not simply a protective envelope. It is a living organ that constantly interacts with its environment.
Do cosmetics really penetrate the skin?
Contrary to popular belief, the skin constitutes an excellent protective barrier. It prevents a large part of external substances from entering the body.
However, this barrier is not completely impermeable. Certain molecules are capable of crossing the superficial layers of the skin, depending on their size, chemical structure, concentration, the vehicle used, as well as the condition of the skin itself.
This is, in fact, the principle on which certain medications administered via transdermal patches are based, such as nicotine or certain hormones.
Cosmetics are obviously not intended to act as medications. Nevertheless, this reality explains why several researchers have been interested for years in the ingredients used in hygiene and personal care products.
What are endocrine disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are substances capable of interacting with the hormonal system. Depending on their mechanism of action, they can mimic certain hormones, block their action, or modify their production.
The endocrine system plays an essential role in many functions of the body: reproduction, fertility, metabolism, growth, brain development, sleep, and many other biological processes.
Scientific research on endocrine disruptors is still evolving. Not all ingredients present the same level of evidence, and their effect depends notably on the dose, the duration of exposure, the period of life, and the cumulative exposure from different sources.
This is why several scientific organizations now recommend a precautionary approach, particularly for pregnant women, young children, and people who wish to reduce their overall exposure.
Where can they be found?
Endocrine disruptors do not come solely from cosmetics.
They can be present in certain plastics, food packaging, pesticides, textiles, household products, household dust, and certain personal care products...
Cosmetics therefore represent one source among several. However, since they are used daily, sometimes several times a day, some people prefer to limit this exposure when alternatives exist.
Why do some people choose more demanding formulations?
Choosing a cosmetic formulated according to stricter criteria does not mean living in fear of ingredients.
It is simply making an informed choice.
Just as several people favor less processed food when it is available, some people prefer skincare formulated with carefully selected ingredients, limiting or excluding certain controversial substances.
This approach is part of a holistic view of health, where every small step contributes to reducing cumulative daily exposure.
Our philosophy at SHAKTI
At SHAKTI, we believe it is possible to offer high-performance skincare while formulating differently.
Each formulation is developed with great rigor to combine effectiveness, sensorial experience, and respect for the skin.
We notably choose to exclude several controversial or non-essential ingredients from our formulations, including parabens, phthalates, mineral oils, silicones, synthetic fragrances, harsh sulfates, PEGs, formaldehyde releasers, as well as other ingredients that are the subject of growing concerns among several consumers.
Our goal is not to claim that all other products are bad.
Our goal is simply to offer an alternative to those who wish to make more thoughtful choices, without compromising on the pleasure of use or the results.
An approach, not a quest for perfection
No environment is completely free of potentially concerning substances.
Trying to eliminate everything would be unrealistic. On the other hand, it is possible to gradually reduce exposure by making choices consistent with one's values, without guilt or obsession.
Taking care of your skin also means choosing what you decide to apply to it every day.
Because in the end, health does not depend on a single action, but on the sum of all the small decisions we make every day.
Scientific References
- World Health Organization (WHO). Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals.
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) & WHO. State of the Science of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals.
- Endocrine Society. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals Scientific Statements.
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Publications on endocrine disruptors.
- European Commission. Information on endocrine disruptors and their regulation.