By Sandi Manhão | Natural Living Consultant & Pilates Instructor
Ever rushed out of the house after a quick splash of toner, a swipe of deodorant, and a spray of perfume? By the time you sit down for breakfast, your body has already met a surprising parade of chemicals.
Recent surveys suggest that the average woman applies more than a dozen different synthetic substances before her first cup of coffee – from facial cleansers and moisturisers to hair products, deodorants and even the plastic‑lined coffee cup.
That’s a lot of unseen guests entering your system before you’ve even taken a bite.
Why should we care?
Many of these products contain preservatives, fragrances, phthalates, parabens and surfactants that can disrupt hormones, irritate the skin, or accumulate in the body over time. (and I’m not even exaggerating)
In Macau’s humid climate, where we often re‑apply sunscreen or anti‑humidity sprays, the skin – our largest organ – becomes a direct gateway. Research links repeated exposure to endocrine‑disrupting chemicals with irregular menstrual cycles, fatigue, weight fluctuations and even increased risk of certain chronic diseases.
For women who are already juggling work and family, an extra chemical burden is the last thing they need.
Photo: Michelle McEwen
What’s happening in our daily routine?
Let’s break it down. A typical morning might look like this:
Cleanser – often contains sodium lauryl sulfate, a foaming agent that can strip the skin’s natural oils.
Toner – may include alcohol and synthetic fragrances.
Moisturiser – parabens are common preservatives.
Sunscreen – chemical UV filters such as oxybenzone.
Make‑up – foundation, concealer and mascara often contain synthetic dyes and preservatives.
Shampoo and conditioner– sulfates can irritate the scalp.
Deodorant – aluminium compounds and artificial scents.
Even the coffee cup lining can leach micro‑plastics. Altogether, it’s easy to see how the “pre‑breakfast chemical count” climbs quickly.
Many chemicals accumulate in the body over time. While a single use may seem trivial, the combined load can add up, linking research to higher risks of certain more serious diseases and metabolic disorders.
Here are three simple steps you can take this month to lighten your chemical load:
- Read the label. Look for products with fewer than ten ingredients and avoid those containing parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, synthetic colours, or “fragrance.”
- Go natural. Swap conventional shampoos and personal care products for a gentle, plant-based, fragrance-free and sulfate‑free option.
- Do a seasonal “chemical audit.” Set aside a weekend to empty your bathroom cabinet, check expiration dates, and donate or dispose of products that contain questionable ingredients. Replace them with greener alternative
For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, the stakes are even higher, as these chemicals can cross the placenta or be transferred to breast milk. Children’s developing bodies are especially vulnerable, and repeated exposure early in life has been linked to respiratory issues and learning difficulties later on.
The good news is that awareness is rising, and small, mindful swaps can make a big difference.
Your health is your most valuable asset—let’s protect it, one thoughtful choice at a time.
Let’s Keep Talking
What is your biggest hurdle to staying healthy in our busy city? I’d love to hear from you. For more tips, follow me on Instagram @Sandi_Manhao. See you there!
Columnist’s Disclaimer:
The information shared here is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any opinions or recommendations shared are based on personal experience and general product education. Please consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new wellness routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
Photo: Christian Agbede
Publication Disclaimer: Our “Natural Living” section is a special column containing articles wholly written by the author with minimum editing for publication purpose only and without additional content by Good News Macau, which only provides a free space for this column. Both the author and the publication have agreed to enter into a non-payment collaborative agreement to give this special section to Good News Macau’s readers, with one article published every month during an agreed period of time. The author’s views or opinions in this article do not represent the publication’s views or opinions.
Feature Photo: Elsa Olofsson
The Author | Natural Living columnist Sandi Manhão believes that true vitality is found when we stop fighting against nature and start living as part of it. A Macau native with over a decade of professional experience, Sandi is a Pilates instructor and aromatherapist who views her 50s as her most vibrant decade yet. She specialises in helping people make the transition to natural living through small, sustainable shifts that yield significant results. By sharing her insights, Sandi seeks to empower every reader to take charge of their health, fostering a sense of balance and harmony that allows the body to thrive.
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