By Supriya Ramesh
While breast health is influenced by a range of factors鈥攇enetics, diet, and exercise among them鈥攅merging research suggests that your daily personal care routine could also be playing a role. From the lotions we slather on to the deodorants we swipe daily, a number of ingredients in these products are under growing scrutiny for their potential to disrupt hormonal balance and impact breast tissue. According to Dr Krithikaa Sekar, Consultant Radiation Oncologist at HCG, KR Road Bangalore, “There is increasing concern about how certain ingredients in personal care products may affect breast health鈥攑articularly endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and triclosan.鈥 These chemicals, commonly found in deodorants, body lotions, shampoos, and cosmetics, can mimic oestrogen in the body鈥攁 hormone known to influence the development of some breast cancers. Dr Nanda Rajaneesh, Visiting Consultant in Breast Onco Surgery and Bariatric Surgery at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, echoes these concerns. 鈥淵es, personal care products can significantly affect breast health. Many of them contain harmful chemicals like parabens, which can mimic oestrogen in the body and may lead to abnormal cell growth and increase the risk of breast cancer.鈥 In addition to parabens, Dr Rajaneesh flags phthalates鈥攆requently used in fragrances鈥攁s well as oxybenzone, which is found in some sunscreens, for their ability to interfere with breast tissue. 鈥淧hthalates are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with normal cell function in breast tissue. Oxybenzone may even damage DNA in breast cells,鈥 she explains. PFAs, PFOS, and artificial fragrances are other ingredients she recommends steering clear of, as they can harm the delicate skin on the breast. Adding another layer of concern, Dr Sekar points to the presence of microplastics in certain personal care products like exfoliants, toothpaste, and makeup. 鈥淭hese tiny plastic particles are not only harmful to the environment but are also being investigated for their potential to penetrate human tissues. Early findings suggest that microplastics may act as carriers for other toxic substances and may even trigger inflammatory responses in the body鈥攆actors that could indirectly impact breast health.鈥 And it鈥檚 not just what you put on your skin. According to Dr Sekar, high concentrations of pesticides are found in the breast tissue of breast cancer patients. 鈥淧esticides act as hormone mimics and get into your system seamlessly through contaminated food, milk, and poultry. Minimising contact with potentially harmful chemicals is a simple yet meaningful step in a more preventive lifestyle.鈥 So what can women do to protect themselves? Both experts agree: choose cleaner, safer alternatives. 鈥淚 recommend choosing products that are labelled free of parabens, phthalates, and microplastics,鈥 says Dr Sekar. 鈥淥pting for organic or dermatologically tested natural alternatives can be a safer choice, especially for individuals with a family history of breast cancer.鈥 Dr Rajaneesh advises looking for certifications like EWG Verified and always checking ingredient labels. 鈥淎void strong fragrances and use natural deodorants that allow the body to sweat and release toxins,鈥 she says. She also recommends lifestyle practices that support overall breast health, including a balanced diet, regular hydration, exercise, and proper hygiene. 鈥淕entle practices like dry brushing or lymphatic massage may help boost circulation and reduce toxin buildup,鈥 she adds. An often-overlooked factor, according to Dr Rajaneesh, is bra quality. 鈥淚t is very important for a woman to choose the correct bra size and the quality of the cloth, as the right size can help prevent pain related to the heaviness of the breast.鈥 As research continues to evolve, one message is clear: being more mindful about what goes on your skin could be just as important as what goes into your body when it comes to protecting your breast health.