Hormone-Safe Skincare 101: What You Don't Put On Your Skin Matters

We’re big believers in this simple truth: what goes on your body is just as important as what goes in it.

Your skin is your largest organ (yep, it’s not just there to make you glow) - and it’s absorbing a whole lot more than you might think. That’s why we’re obsessed with creating products that love your body back. No hormone-disruptors, no nasties, no thank you.

If you’ve ever wondered what “hormone-safe skincare” actually means, or why some ingredients get a bad rap, we’ve got you. Let’s break it down.

 

SO, WHAT IS HORMONE-SAFE SKINCARE?

Think of hormone-safe skincare as your skin’s safe space - formulas free from ingredients known (or even suspected) to mess with your hormones. We’re talking about chemicals that may mimic, block, or confuse your body’s natural signals. Not cool.

Our hormone systems are sensitive, and for some people (especially those on a hormone journey, pregnant, or just wanting to be mindful), steering clear of certain ingredients is one way to support overall wellbeing.

 

INGREDIENTS SOME PEOPLE CHOOSE TO DODGE

Let’s talk about the usual suspects. These are a few ingredients commonly found in mainstream skincare that some of us just aren’t doing it for us anymore:

✖ Parabens

Parabens are synthetic preservatives that keep products from going off too quickly - sounds helpful, right? But some types of parabens may mimic oestrogen in the body. And when the body starts picking up mixed signals, things can get out of whack (hello, hormonal imbalance). You’ll often see them listed as methylparaben, ethylparaben, or propylparaben - if that’s not your jam, look out for “paraben-free” labels and ingredient lists.

✖ Phthalates

Found in artificial fragrances and used to make products smoother, phthalates are a group of chemicals that may also sneakily impact hormone production. They’re often not listed outright (rude), but if a product has "fragrance" or "parfum" without being clear where it’s from, phthalates might be lurking. We say: if in doubt, go for products with natural scents or no scent at all.

 ✖ PFAS (yep, those long science-y ones)

These are synthetic compounds used to make things like mascara smudge-proof or serums absorb faster. Some PFAS stick around in the environment and in our bodies - and research is showing that long-term exposure may affect things like thyroid health. Not the vibe. We keep our skincare PFAS-free, always.

 

WHY THIS MATTERS

We’re not here to fearmonger - just to offer honest, empowering info so you can choose what works for you.

Your skin is super absorbent, especially when using products every day. And while research into these ingredients is ongoing, there’s enough out there to make many people hit pause. If you're pregnant, sensitive, or just want to tread more gently, hormone-safe skincare can be a wise move.

For example:

• Parabens have been linked to hormone disruption and breast tissue changes
• Phthalate studies show that they may impact fertility and hormone function
• PFAS are being studied for their long-term effects on thyroid and immune health

We're all about making decisions that feel good, and if skipping a few sketchy ingredients helps your body stay in balance, we say go for it.

 

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD

Thankfully, there are gorgeous, effective skincare options that don’t rely on these ingredients (hi 👋 that’s literally why Indie + Mae exists).

Look for:

• Ingredient transparency: if a brand is vague, ask questions.
• Paraben- & phthalate-free formulas: you deserve better.
• Naturally scented or fragrance-free options: your hormones will thank you.

 

YOU’RE WORTH THE GOOD STUFF

Choosing hormone-safe skincare isn’t about being perfect - it’s about being informed. We’re not here to make you overhaul your life. But we are here to help you find better-for-you beauty that fits your lifestyle, your values, and your standards.

Our promise? Every Indie + Mae product is created with your wellbeing in mind. No hormone-disruptors, ever. Just powerful plant-based ingredients, beautifully blended to nourish your skin - and support your natural balance.

Because you’re not just skin-deep.

And you deserve quality products that gets that.