Lecithin belongs to a class of chemicals known as phytoestrogens, which are naturally occurring plant compounds found in soy that are commonly used as emollients in cosmetics to help soften and soothe skin. These products are considered endocrine disruptors as they can mimic estrogen or block estrogen production. The effects differ in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women due to the underlying base estrogen levels.