Cosmetics, Deodorants and Soaps, Oh My

Have you ever actually researched to see what is in your cosmetics, deodorants, sun tan lotions, soaps, body wash, shampoo, toothepaste, etc.? I can honestly say, I have never done that until recently.  It's easy to be naive and assume that companies make products that are safe for you. Sadly, that is not the case. I am convinced that childhood illnesses, cancer and other disesases are on the rise because of the products we use daily that have toxic chemicals in them. They can also cause allergies, asthma and reproductive harm.

I found Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database. They research everyday products and give the truth about what is in them. They haven't reviewed every product available, but they have a pretty extensive database.  I encourage you to check out this site, and search for others like it that can let you know what are in the products you use. Most chemicals and other ingredients have LONG names that mean nothing to me unless I search them.

Other informative links:
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics
Breast Cancer Fund
Cosmetics Info
Safe Cosmetics Alliance

They way I am trying to look at it is, I can spend more money up front on natural, chemical free products for my family, or we can pay the price later in health care costs from illnesses we get by using chemicals in and on our bodies over a lifetime. I know not everything can be avoided, but we can do our part to keep our bodies as safe and healthy as possible.

I am a work in progress in this area and there is no way for me to throw out everything I use and know exactly what products to get, but it is something I can work on. I hope you'll join me and keep me updated on what your findings are as well.