We’ve been doing a lot of reading of late…and boy are there some rabbit holes you can go down when it comes to all the different products that can affect your hormones.

Today, we’re delving into the world of perfumes and their possible impact on your hormonal balance with our friends at Sensor.i.am.

So, grab a cuppa and and read on. Before we start though, remember it's vital to consult with your healthcare professional if you have any specific concerns about hormonal health or sensitivities.

Understanding Hormonal Balance:

Hormonal balance plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health for women, particularly as you enter your glorious 40’s and the new phase of hormonal changes leading towards perimenopause. Hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, regulate various bodily processes, including mood, sleep patterns, metabolism, and reproductive health.

The Fragrant Culprits:

You might be surprised to learn that many conventional perfumes contain potentially harmful chemicals known as hormone disruptors. These synthetic substances, often found in fragrances, over time can alter your hormone levels and disrupt the delicate balance within your body.

 The Role of Chemical Perfumes:

Chemical perfumes, although seemingly harmless, often contain hormone disruptors. These are synthetic compounds that may interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system, which produces the hormones in your body. Common hormone disruptors found in perfumes include parabens, phthalates, and synthetic musks.

Effects of Hormone Disruptors:

1. Disruption of Estrogen Levels:

Many hormone disruptors in chemical perfumes mimic estrogen, the primary female sex hormone. When exposed to these compounds, the body may interpret them as natural estrogen, leading to an imbalance. This imbalance can lead to a variety of issues such as irregular periods, changes in mood, and decreased libido (like we need more of that).

2. Thyroid Dysfunction:

Chemical perfumes may also interfere with the thyroid gland, which plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and mood (hmmmm….again). Certain hormone disruptors have been linked to thyroid dysfunction, potentially causing weight gain, fatigue, and depression.

Taking Control of Your Health:

While completely avoiding chemical perfumes may not be practical for everyone, there are steps you can take to minimize exposure and reduce potential risks:

1. Opt for Natural or Organic Perfumes: Choose perfumes made from natural or organic ingredients that steer clear of hormone disruptors. Look for products labeled "phthalate-free," "paraben-free," and "synthetic musk-free" to ensure safer alternatives.
2. Limit Exposure: Use chemical perfumes sparingly and avoid applying them directly to your skin, as absorption can increase the exposure to hormone disruptors. Consider spraying perfume on clothing instead of directly on your body.
3. Understand Labels: Did you know that mainstream perfumes do not have to list their ingredients at all, so when you go to check their label you will not find much there. Their formulations are considered to be 'trade secrets' so they don’t have to reveal them. This is what makes it so hard to know exactly what is in the perfume.

Our suggestion: opt for perfumes that have actual full transparency on what ingredients they use. In general that will mean they are more open and likely to be a safer option.

We love the team at Sensor.I.Am. They specialise in natural perfumes and will take the time to give you a personal consultation, and even offer a chance to explore samples to see what you like.

“Shifting to natural perfume doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the quality of your perfume. There are incredible perfume makers, true artisans, all over the world who are creating exquisite natural perfumes, worthy of all of our attention. At Sensoriam we take the time to find the very best natural perfumes, our discerning curation, to make it easy for you to fall in love with natural fragrance. Your perfume choices are an extension of your personality, and identity. They depict the statement you want to make, they reflect the way you want to express yourself. At Sensoriam, we are leading the conscious back to a place of sensorial arousal. A place where humans can use our senses to experience the beauty of the world, unadulterated and pure, without the harmful side effects.” Emma Scott, co-founder Sensoriam.

Stay informed, stay confident, and stay beautiful! 

(Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have specific concerns about your hormonal health, please consult with a healthcare professional.)