UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUE
In Brief
Endocrine disruptors are substances capable of interfering with the hormonal system. They are found in everyday products, including cosmetics, leading to repeated, cumulative, and often invisible exposure.
1.
Established Health Effects
Chronic exposure is associated with fertility disorders, hormonal and thyroid dysfunctions, developmental disorders, certain cancers, as well as metabolic and neurological disorders.
2.
Cosmetics as a Pathway of Exposure
Applied directly to the skin—sometimes several times a day—cosmetic products allow certain substances to enter the body. Scientific studies have detected these substances in blood, urine, and breast milk.
3.
The Specific Case of Perfumes
Perfumes are used daily by a large proportion of the population. Yet their composition remains largely opaque, while numerous analyses have identified substances suspected or confirmed to be endocrine disruptors. This includes UV filters added to protect the product itself rather than the consumer.
4.
An Avoidable Problem
Technical alternatives exist. The continued use of hazardous substances reflects an economic trade-off, not a scientific inevitability.