We often take great care in what we put in our bodies (food), but don't think twice about what we put on our bodies (products). It is important to recognize that 60% of the product we put on our skin is absorbed into our body. Think about how many personal care products you use a day. Is it five? Ten? On average, we put 126 unique ingredients on our skin daily.

Did you know that the government doesn't require any pre-market testing or health studies for these products? There is no requirement that companies test personal care products for safety before they reach the store shelves. There is a self-policing safety panel, the Cosmetics Ingredients Review, but they have not reviewed more than half of the thousands of ingredients companies use in cosmetics.

When you are using body wash, shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, and makeup, you could be putting toxins into your body. Using these products can increase your risk for cancer as well as cause neurotoxic effects or allergic reactions. Don't be fooled by "natural" products. Only 1% of natural ingredients need to be in the product to be called "natural".

It is best to opt for personal-care products that are based on plant oils instead of petrochemicals, colors derived from natural minerals such as titanium dioxide, fragrances from essential oils, and natural preservatives such as vitamins C and E or grapefruit seed extract. The general rule (which applies to food products and household cleaning products as well) is to buy products with the fewest ingredients. If you don't know what the ingredient is, it's probably a manufactured chemical. Below is a quick look at what synthetic chemicals to avoid commonly found in beauty products.

• Parabens - Parabens are listed as ethyl, methyl, butyl, or propyl in the prefix. Parabens have been linked to weight gain, hormone disruption, and breast cancer. The FDA considers parabens safe, but some research shows that these substances mimic estrogen and can adversely affect testosterone levels and reproductive functioning in men. Look for a company that uses vitamin C or grapeseed extract to preserve their cosmetics.

• Fragrance - Phthalates accumulate in the body's fatty tissue and can remain there for years. Studies have found that nearly 75% of the most popular beauty products have phthalates in them, including perfume, hair-care products, nail polish, and hand lotions. These chemicals are linked to liver damage, birth defects, infertility, and cancer. On the label, it will simply be listed as "fragrance".

• Triclosan - Triclosan is a known irritant.

• Petrochemicals - Petrochemicals include Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Polyethylene Glycol (PEG, PPG, Cocoate), Propylene Glycol, and artificial colors.

• Coal tar - Coal tar is listed as FD&C and D&C colors. Made from bituminous coal, these synthetic tints are a common ingredient in hair dyes, dandruff shampoos, and cosmetics. Nearly all coal tar colors have been found to cause cancer in animals. Most have never been tested for safety in people.

Some brands that I like include Dr. Hauschka, Aubrey Organics, Burt's Bees, Jane Iredale, Giovanni, Nutribiotic, Natural Dentist, and Griffin Remedy. However, even buying by the brand is not a sure thing—or the store for that matter. Just because you buy a product at a health food store such as Whole Foods, does not mean it is free of the chemicals mentioned above. Here are some ideas for reducing your toxic exposure:

• Check out Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database and type in your product to find out how it rates in terms of toxicity.

• Download a wallet-sized Quick Tips for Safer Cosmetics shopping guide from EWG with a $5 donation. I carry one with me in my purse. It was invaluable when I was first making the transition to go au natural.
  

• Use fewer products. Be mindful when using your personal care products and see what you can use less often or cut out entirely.
  

• Read the ingredient list. Don't just rely on the marketing label that the product is organic or natural. Review the list and decide for yourself.

Are there any products in your bathroom cupboard that you are willing to trade in and go au natural?