Estrogen in Moisturizing Cremes

There’s no doubt that the foods we eat and the environment we’re exposed to plays a role in the development of breast cancer. If you’re concerned about your own risk of developing this disease, it’s important to reduce the amount of estrogen your breast tissue is exposed to since estrogen exposure plays an important role in the development of tumors of the breast. Unfortunately, it seems that exogenous estrogens are everywhere, even in the hormonally enhanced meats and dairy products that Americans eat and drink on a daily basis. It’s even thought that some of the components in the plastics used to store food have estrogenic properties. An unexpected source of estrogen exposure that you may not have considered is the moisturizer crème you use on a daily basis.

According to information presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, common moisturizer creme may be an unexpected source of estrogen exposure. Dr. Adrienne Olson and her colleagues from Breastlink, analyzed a variety of commercial moisturizer products to determine their estrogen content. Using special equipment they were able to determine the approximate estrogen levels present in in a variety of moisturizer crèmes. Surprisingly, almost forty percent of the samples they tested had documented quantities of estrogen. None of these estrogen components were listed on the label so there would be no way to be aware of their presence.

Why is this of such concern since estrogens are so commonly found in food products anyway? It appears that estrogens applied directly to the skin through moisturizer products are more easily absorbed and assimilated into the body than those that enter the body through the mouth. Applying a topical moisturizer crème is an efficient way for estrogen to gain entrance to the body and to the breast tissue.

The fact that some moisturizer products may contain estrogens is of particular concern to anyone who has had breast cancer or is at high risk, although it’s a problem for all women since estrogen exposure has been correlated with an increased risk of breast cancer as well as recurrence of breast cancer.

What can you do to avoid exposure to estrogens through moisturizing products? Since a moisturizer crème is unlikely to list estrogen as an ingredient, it’s best to buy all natural or organic moisturizing products from companies you trust. Before purchasing a moisturizer crème, call the company and inquire about the ingredients in their products even if they’re listed on the label. You can also make your own moisturizer crème using natural ingredients such as olive oil or yogurt. There are a variety of recipes available on the internet.

Don’t take a chance with your health by buying moisturizing products that could increase your risk of breast cancer. Research a moisturizer crème thoroughly before placing it on your skin.