A safer source for perfume is an essential oil derived by chemical-free steam distillation, cold-pressing or the labor-intensive enfleurage method used with delicate jasmine or tuberose flowers. Scents like Aveda Energizing Composition, $21, which are created by blending essential oils, may not last as long as synthetic perfumes, but they're just as sexy and can be repeatedly applied without giving you a chemical headache. Plus, essential oils haven't been linked to infertility like phthalates. Bonus!
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Avoid: Dibutyl Phthalate or DBP, Toulene, Formaldehyde
Look for nail polishes that are free of Dibutyl Phthalate or DBP, a reproductive toxin that is banned in Europe because of its links to birth defects, Toulene, which affects the central nervous system and can cause headaches and Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen that's also responsible for staining your nails yellow. Even popular brands like OPI and Sally Hansen are now "big three-free." If your favorite nail salon is still using toxic polish, just remember to BYOB!
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Avoid: Quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea
Now that you've been warned about formaldehyde, know that many common chemical preservatives release the stuff over time, so also avoid the words Quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea on your labels. Better to be safe than sorry.
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Look for: Acai
Because of its ridiculous antioxidant properties, it was only a matter of time before the foodie-favorite Brazilian import Acai showed up in beauty products. With more than 30 percent the free-radical fighting power of the grape (remember when vinotherapy-inspired beauty was all the rage?), this fruit extract can be found in products like Pangea Organics Japanese Matcha Tea with Acai & Goji Berry Facial Mask, $31.99.
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Be skeptical of: Nanoparticles, Nanomaterials or Nanotechnology
Finally, be wary of products that advertise Nanoparticles, Nanomaterials or Nanotechnology, popular especially in sunscreens, where this new emerging technology has allowed scientists to break down ingredients (like zinc or titanium dioxide) into tiny particles. How small? A human hair is about 80,000 nanometers in diameter. Problem is, these nanoparticles are so small that they can penetrate cell walls, including organ tissues. The FDA is currently looking into the risks of nanomaterials in cosmetics, especially sunscreens. Stay tuned.
"Pure" and "natural" might be the buzzwords of today's hottest products, but don't believe everything you read, says Stacy Malkan, author of "Not Just A Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry". In fact, according to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, because the personal care industry is unregulated, even the word "organic" can be slapped on products chock-full of chemicals that can be dangerous to your health and the environment. But who has the time to read through the laundry list of ingredients on the back of your products? If you do -- great. If not, use this cheat sheet to know what ingredients to avoid, and what ones are the best earth-friendly alternatives.
