Why I Almost Removed Fragrance from Maleena, and What It Has to Do with Hormone Disruptors

One Spring Walk and One Unpleasant Discovery

I remember that day exactly. April 2024. The sun was shining on the Brod Fortress. My phone was to my ear, and I was talking to a friend about fragrance in cosmetics.

I should have been enjoying the warmth of the spring day. But instead, I felt frustrated.

I had found a hormone disruptor in the fragrance I wanted to use in Maleena.

I knew it was present in a minimal percentage. I knew it was legally allowed.

But for me, and for Maleena, that was not good enough.

Because for me, clean beauty was never a marketing term. It is a responsibility.

What Are Hormone, or Endocrine, Disruptors?

Hormone disruptors, also known as endocrine disruptors, are chemical substances that can interfere with the hormonal system. They are most commonly found in plastic, cosmetics, pesticides and household chemicals, and the concern comes from long-term, cumulative exposure.

Hormone disruptors can:

-mimic hormones
-block hormone receptors
-change the way hormones are produced or broken down

They are most commonly found in:

-plastic, such as bisphenols and phthalates
-cosmetics and synthetic fragrances
-pesticides
-household chemicals
-indoor dust

Science is still exploring the full extent of their impact. But there is enough data for us to know that combined, long-term exposure to hormone disruptors is not something we should ignore.

When Knowledge Stops Being Abstract

As a pharmacist, I knew how to read labels. I knew what phthalates, parabens and bisphenols were. But that moment with the fragrance made the knowledge personal.

I realized how many products we use every day, from shampoos, perfumes and creams to fabric softeners, contain ingredients that can interfere with our hormonal system.

And that was when I made a decision: I do not want to live in fear. But I do want to live with awareness.

That day, I was ready to give up fragrance completely. Safety mattered more to me than a pleasant experience.

And then a natural raspberry aroma appeared - safe, stable and aligned with my standards.

Clean Beauty Without Strict Rules

When I decided to live more in harmony with my hormones, I did not start suddenly. I did not throw my entire bathroom into the trash. I started with small steps.

-I stopped heating food in plastic.
-I reduced aggressively scented products.
-I chose formulations with transparent ingredient lists.

But I did not give up textures. Or fragrance. Or the ritual of skincare. Because I believe care needs to have playfulness too. I want cosmetics that are safe, but also sensual, vibrant and feminine.

That is where the idea for my formulations was born.

How Fermented Raspberry Skincare Was Created

When I started developing my own formulas, I did not want only “free from harmful ingredients”.

I wanted active ingredients that:

-support the biology of the skin
-work in synergy with it
-respect its natural balance

That is how fermented raspberry skincare was created.

Through fermentation, active molecules become:

-more bioavailable
-gentler on the skin
-more functional

For me, fermented raspberry is a symbol of everything I do:

knowledge + nature + playfulness.

Science does not have to be cold. It can be creative, gentle and smell like raspberry.

What You Can Do Today for Hormonal Balance

If you want to reduce exposure to hormone disruptors without panic:

-Do not heat food in plastic.
-Reduce intensely scented products in your home.
-Choose cosmetics with transparent ingredient lists.

And most importantly:

Do not try to be perfect. Hormones love stability. And stability does not come from strict rules, but from balance.