When it comes to primping, do you go au naturel? We're not talking about leaving the house with a naked face - we're talking about what's in your makeup and toiletries. Take a look at the ingredient list on your favorite cosmetics to see if any of these nasty chemicals have made their way onto your body. It may seem harmless, especially when you use such a seemingly small amount, or you wash the product away after applying, but a lifetime of exposure to toxins in cosmetics may increase your risk of certain cancers and other health conditions. You may see the word "fragrance" on the label of many products, and it's a misleading term that covers a whole slew of concoctions. Many of them are phthalates, which have gotten a bad rap for their presence in baby bottles, pacifiers and teethers. Researchers have found links to autism, endocrine disruption and even obesity as a result of exposure.
Formaldehyde, a preservative, is another common ingredient to avoid due to its tendency to irritate skin and possibly cause asthma. Tolulene is found in many nail polishes and hair dye - high exposure may lead to dizziness, headaches, and for pregnant women, potential birth defects.Triethanolamine, or TEA, balances pH and is found in many so-called "gentle" products. If you have problem skin affected by psoriasis, eczema or dandruff, look out for coal tar, which is a known carcinogen. Stay away from the commercial stuff and save your pennies for the more wholesome products, with actual ingredients that you can pronounce. Look for great products from companies like Lush, Jason, The Body Shop and Kiss My Face.