Top 10 Hormone-Disrupting Ingredients in Teen Skincare

Shopping for teen skincare can feel a bit like walking into a maze — bright labels, bold promises, and ingredient lists that look more like chemistry class notes. Most families simply want products that support clear, healthy skin. But some cosmetic ingredients have raised concerns for how they might interact with the body’s hormonal systems.

There’s no need for fear — just solid information. Here’s a clear, friendly breakdown of 10 hormone-disrupting ingredients, organized from highest concern to lower concern, to help parents and teens make informed choices.

1. BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)

A synthetic preservative sometimes found in lip products and moisturizers. Research shows BHA can act as an endocrine(hormone) disruptor and has also been linked to broader safety concerns, including carcinogenicity (potential to cause cancer).

2. Bisphenols (like BPA)

Commonly used in plastics and capable of migrating from packaging into skincare. BPA is a well-documented endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and has been linked to developmental and reproductive effects.

3. Phthalates

Often hidden under the word “fragrance.” Phthalates can interfere with hormone signaling, including thyroid and reproductive pathways. They’re used to help scents last longer and improve texture in personal care products.

Common phthalates include:

• DEP (Diethyl Phthalate)

• DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate)

• DEHP (Diethylhexyl Phthalate)

• DMP (Dimethyl Phthalate)

4. Oxybenzone (BP-3)

A chemical sunscreen filter with documented estrogenic and anti-androgenic activity in lab studies. It is absorbed through the skin and has been detected in human blood and urine.

5. Octinoxate

Another UV filter found in sunscreen products. Studies show it can disrupt thyroid function and act on estrogen receptors. Some regions have restricted its use due to environmental and hormonal concerns.

6. Triclosan

Previously common in antibacterial personal care items. Triclosan has been shown to interfere with thyroid hormones and shares structural similarities with known endocrine disruptors.

7. Parabens (especially butyl- and propylparaben)

Used as preservatives, parabens can mimic estrogen in lab studies. Longer-chain parabens show stronger hormonal activity and have been restricted or limited in certain regions.

8. Synthetic Fragrances (beyond phthalates)

Fragrance blends can include dozens of chemical compounds, including synthetic musks, which may interfere with hormone signaling and can build up in the body. Because individual components don’t have to be listed, fragrance-free products often give clearer ingredient transparency.

9. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

These preservatives release small amounts of formaldehyde over time to prevent bacterial growth. While best known for causing irritation or allergies, formaldehyde itself is a recognized carcinogen — contributing to their inclusion on this list.

10. Additional Chemical Sunscreen Filters

Other widely used UV filters — such as homosalate and octocrylene — have shown endocrine activity in lab studies. Families looking for cleaner alternatives often choose mineral sunscreens instead.
Learn more: UV Filter Safety

Start Small

You don’t need to overhaul every product overnight. Small shifts — like choosing fragrance-free options or swapping to mineral sunscreen — can reduce exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s awareness. With the right information, both teens and parents can feel more confident choosing skincare that supports long-term health and wellness.

The Glowing Girly Routine by Girlyish Skincare is a great option for tweens and teens looking for a skincare routine free of hormone disruptors. Shop now at girlyishskincare.com!