Learn how to prettify yourself without putting yourself at risk! Beware of what possible harmful ingredients you can find in the following beauty, skincare, and personal hygiene products and try to work your way to going natural and organic. This list can be an eye-opener, folks!

1. Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Organics.org tells you that most of your deo might do more harm than good to your body. Some toxic ingredients that your anti-perspirants might have are any of these: Parabens, Silica, Talc, Triclosan, Aluminum compounds, Propylene Glycol, and Steareth-n.

These toxins are being absorbed by your body which can eventually cause cancer, liver, and kidney failure. Though these ingredients help your body minimize sweat, keep clean and fresh, and away from smelly odor, you can go for some classic picks made from Mother Nature's best ingredients. Discover some recipes here.

2. Sanitary Pads

Sanitary pads, tampons, and pantyliners are must-haves for girls. And having them so sparkling white, absorbent, and smooth, these feminine hygiene pads may have toxic ingredients like those of in plastic bags and products. For one, synthetic pads may contain dioxin (human carcinogen) is a byproduct of chlorine-beaching processes used in production. Also, potentially hazardous ingredients, such as odor neutralizers and fragrances, are said to present in these pads.

These conventional synthetic pads generally restrict air flow and trap heat and dampness, potentially promoting yeast and bacteria growth in the vaginal area.

3. Nail Lacquers and Nail Polish Removers

Rigid studies concluded that there are three chemicals found in nail products: dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and formaldehyde. These are commonly called the 'toxic trio' which concerns some potential health risks to human. Some nail tints, arts, coats, and lacquers may contain toluene and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) which may cause birth defects and developmental problems to children if there pregnant women would have extended exposure to such products. 

Please don't be so sure about the 'non-toxic' labels you see on them for in many cases, these tags are inaccurate. So, whether it says it's toxic-free or not, everyone is advised to be more cautious.

4. Cosmetic Products

Many cosmetics have been found to be quite risky to human health. The presence of phthalates, parabens, triclosan, and some additional chemicals in some cosmetic products has made it more harmful than you think they are. USDA has found low median values of contaminants (heavy metals) like arsenic, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, mercury, and nickel in these beauty products.

Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRP's) are also used in many cosmetic items to help prevent bacteria growth. However, the International Agency for Research on Carcinogens (IARC) considers this chemical as a human carcinogen and has been linked to occupational related cancers such as nasal and nasopharyngeal. These ingredients can really be a threat to your health.

5. Moisturizing and Whitening Creams

Parabens, mostly found in facial creams, body moisturizers, body wash, and cleansers, are chemicals that are widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. This group has been linked to possible carcinogenicity and estrogenic effect from being exposed to its continued use.

Some skin care creams also have other toxic ingredients like Phthalates, Triclosan, Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRP's), and other chemical additives. These threats are associated with kidney, liver and respiratory damages, thyroid and reproductive hormone failures, and other skin allergies and irritations.

6. Sunscreen Lotions

Sunscreen chemicals (benzophenone, PABA, avobenzone, homosalate and ethoxycinnmate), which generally function as a sunscreen agent to absorb ultraviolet light, are easily absorbed into the body. These endoctrine disruptors may cause skin allergic reactions, hormonal problems, cellular damage, and even cancer.

We all need to be extra careful and vigilant about these issues. It is always an advantage to know everything concerning your health than be so sorry because ... hey, it's too late!

Check you beauty and skin care labels now and let us know your thoughts! We'd love to hear from you.