Have you ever stopped to think about what’s actually in your shampoo, laundry detergent, or deodorant? We often trust that if a product is available on the shelf, it must be safe—but that’s not always the case. Every day, we come into contact with hundreds of chemicals through the products we use at home and on our bodies. These substances don’t just rinse off or disappear—they can be absorbed through our skin, inhaled into our lungs, and remain in our environment, where their long-term effects are still being studied. The question is, what are these chemicals doing to us, and how can we protect ourselves?
The Chemicals We Absorb Without Realising
Our skin isn’t just a barrier—it’s a sponge. Studies show that on average, 64% of contaminants in water are absorbed through our skin (Brown et al., 1984), which has been known since the 1980’s. Some chemicals are even more absorbent. A recent study found that 15 out of 17 tested ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAS) were absorbed through the skin within 36 hours (Schlumpf et al., 2024). That means every time we apply lotion, use scented body wash, or clean with petrochemical-based sprays, our skin may be absorbing more than we realise.
Once absorbed, these chemicals don’t just sit on the surface—they can make their way into our bloodstream, organs, and even fat stores, where they accumulate over time. Some can take months or even years to break down, others last forever, meaning repeated exposure builds up the toxic load in our system. This is particularly concerning for children, whose developing bodies are more vulnerable to chemical exposure.
The Hidden Dangers of ‘Fragrance’ and VOCs
Many everyday products—perfumes, deodorants, air fresheners, cleaning sprays—contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are chemicals that easily become airborne and can irritate our airways, trigger asthma, and even cause long-term damage to our nervous system (Diamanti-Kandarakis et al., 2009).
What’s even more concerning is that many of these substances act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the natural balance of our hormones, which regulate everything from metabolism and energy levels to stress responses and reproductive health. Studies have explored the potential effects of endocrine disruptors on reproductive health, hormone balance, and overall wellbeing, though more research is needed to fully understand their long-term impact. These chemicals can also influence mood, with research suggesting a connection between hormone disruption and increased stress, anxiety, and depression (Gore et al., 2015).
The Lack of Transparency in Product Ingredients
One of the biggest challenges is the lack of regulation around fragrance ingredients. Legally, companies don’t have to disclose what’s inside a ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’—which means you could be exposing yourself (and your family) to hundreds of hidden chemicals, some of which are completely untested for safety (Thornton, 2021). This lack of transparency makes it difficult for consumers to make informed choices, especially when buying products for babies, those with sensitivities, or anyone looking to reduce their chemical exposure.
Our Commitment to Safe, Naturally Derived Products
At our clinic, we believe that what we put on and around our bodies matters. That’s why we stock naturally derived, toxin-free, and low-toxicity home and personal care products. The research indicates that these are safer, effective alternatives that support your health rather than working against it. Our goal is to give you options that help you reduce your chemical exposure without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
The Connection Between Hormones, Stress, and Mental WellBeing
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating our emotions, energy levels, and overall sense of wellbeing. When they’re thrown off balance—whether due to stress, diet, or exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals—it can leave us feeling exhausted, anxious, or moody.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals commonly found in household and personal care products have been linked to higher cortisol levels (the stress hormone), increased inflammation, and an impaired ability to regulate emotions (Gore et al., 2015). Some researchers have suggested a link between exposure to certain chemicals and symptoms like brain fog, irritability, and sleep disturbances, but individual responses vary. By reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals, particularly those in fragranced products, we can take a significant step towards restoring hormonal balance and improving overall well-being.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
Transitioning to a lower-tox lifestyle can feel like a big change, but small, mindful choices can have a meaningful impact. Here are some simple and practical steps to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals:
- Read labels carefully. Avoid products that list ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’ without disclosing their ingredients.
- Switch to low-tox alternatives. Look for products labelled as fragrance-free, naturally derived, or toxin-free.
- Reduce synthetic fragrance exposure. Choose fragrance-free or naturally scented deodorants and personal care products.
- Be mindful of what you put on your skin. Opt for products with ingredients you trust and feel comfortable using daily.
The Bottom Line
While we are exposed to more chemicals than ever before, we have the power to make informed choices that support our well-being. By choosing low-tox alternatives, questioning what’s in our products, and making small, intentional swaps, we can create healthier environments for ourselves and our families.
At our clinic, we’re committed to providing safer, naturally derived, and low-tox/tox-free products that support your wellbeing. If it’s on our shelves or used in our clinic, it’s because our team has personally tested it and believes in its quality. We only offer products that align with our commitment to safe, naturally derived, and low-tox living. If you’re looking for guidance on reducing your chemical exposure, visit us to explore our range of low-tox options and take control of what goes in and on your body.
References
Brown, H. S., Bishop, D. R., & Rowan, C. A. (1984). The role of skin absorption as a route of exposure for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in drinking water. *American Journal of Public Health, 74*(5), 479-484. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.74.5.479
Diamanti-Kandarakis, E., Bourguignon, J. P., Giudice, L. C., Hauser, R., Prins, G. S., Soto, A. M., Zoeller, R. T., & Gore, A. C. (2009). Endocrine-disrupting chemicals: An Endocrine Society scientific statement. *Endocrine Reviews, 30*(4), 293-342. https://doi.org/10.1210/er.2009-0002
Author: Duane du Toit
Date: 17 February 2025