Fertility, Skincare, and the Hidden Influence of Forever Chemicals

Infertility rates are rising, and while much attention is paid to internal factors like hormones or age, few people consider their daily exposure to synthetic chemicals via skincare. Yet many commercial products contain substances that may directly interfere with reproductive health—particularly a class of synthetic additives known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These “forever chemicals” are designed to last, but so are their effects on the body.

What the Research Says About PFAS and Female Fertility

PFAS are not metabolised efficiently by the body and have been found in blood, breast milk, and even ovarian tissue. They are often used in skincare and cosmetics for their smoothing and water-resistant qualities. Though rarely listed on labels, they can be absorbed through the skin and may interfere with reproductive hormones and ovarian development.

A 2023 meta-analysis published in Environmental Research found that higher exposure to PFAS—particularly PFOS and PFOA—was associated with reduced fertility in women, including increased time to pregnancy and lower ovarian responsiveness during assisted reproduction (Wang et al., 2023).
A 2024 review in Toxics compiled evidence that PFAS contribute to reproductive disorders including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Mechanisms included disruption of sex hormone signalling and oxidative stress within ovarian tissue (Yi et al., 2024).
A 2021 study published in Environment International provided rare human data showing a link between chemical exposure—including PFAS and other persistent pollutants—and reduced ovarian follicle density, a direct measure of ovarian reserve. Women with higher concentrations of specific PFAS and organochlorines had significantly fewer non-growing follicles, a key determinant of reproductive lifespan (Björvang et al., 2021).

Why This Matters for Skincare

Daily application of lotions, creams, and serums—especially on areas near the neck and chest—means that even trace amounts of PFAS can enter the body and persist. This low-dose, long-term exposure is particularly concerning during preconception or if you're trying to conceive.

Natural skincare avoids these endocrine-disrupting compounds entirely. Botanical oils like rosehip, borage, and tamanu support skin health without affecting hormonal signalling.
Simpler ingredient lists and transparent sourcing make it easier to avoid unwanted contaminants

Comparing Skincare Through a Fertility Lens

Final Thoughts

Fertility is sensitive to many factors—but the products we use on our skin every day are among the easiest to change. At Zurma, we avoid all PFAS and persistent pollutants, formulating only with safe, natural ingredients that support your skin and your health.

Whether you're thinking about pregnancy or simply preserving your long-term wellbeing, natural skincare is a small shift that can make a big difference.

References

Wang, W., Hong, X., Zhao, F., Wu, J., & Wang, B. (2023). The effects of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances on female fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Environmental Research, 216, 114718
Yi, Y., Feng, Y., Shi, Y., Xiao, J., Liu, M., & Wang, K. (2024). Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) and Their Potential Effects on Female Reproductive Diseases. Toxics, 12(8), 539. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12080539
Björvang, R. D., et al. (2021). Persistent organic pollutants and the size of ovarian reserve in reproductive-aged women. Environment International, 155, 106589. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2021.106589