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What: Pressed from the seeds of the Pongam Tree, this cousin of Neem offers an array of similar therapeutic benefits to that of its pungent relative. Karanja Oil is prized for its insecticidal and antiseptic properties...

Ethoxylation is a chemical process in which ethylene oxide is added to fatty acids to make them more soluble in water. An example of this process is the ethoxylation of sodium dodecyl sulfate to form sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) , often used in shampoos and toothpastes as a foaming agent. The problem with Ethoxylation is its use of a petrochemical called Ethylene Oxide, which generates 1,4-Dioxane as a by-product "known to the State of California to cause cancer". Additionally, it is suspected by the Californian EPA to be a kidney toxicant, neurotoxicant and respiratory toxicant, among others...

Some ingredients release formaldehyde, which is linked to cancer. The EPA classifies it as a possible carcinogen. The following ingredients either release or breakdown into formaldehyde...

Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) is becoming increasingly popular as a preservative to replace parabens. Even some products claiming to be certified organic use this preservative, as certain percentages of non-organic material is allowed by the USDA....

Parabens are a group of synthetic preservatives commonly used in cosmetics. They are commonly found at the bottom of the ingredient listing, if one is available.

Common parabens are methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben.

Parabens and other synthetic preservatives are known to cause irritations to sensitive skin. Parabens were also...

Phthalates is an ingredient found in many beauty and personal care products, most notably as a carrier for fragrance ingredients. Under current FDA labeling regulations, this ingredient can often be labelled just as "Fragrance", although it is major component in the composition of the product. In other products, it is listed, but as an acronym which makes it harder to identify...

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is commonly used in cosmetics as cleansing agents, emulsifiers, skin conditioners, surfactants.

According to a report in the International Journal of Toxicology by the cosmetic industry's own Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) committee, impurities found in various PEG compounds include ethylene oxide; 1,4-dioxane; polycyclic aromatic compounds; and heavy metals such as lead, iron, cobalt, nickel, cadmium, and arsenic. Many of these impurities are linked to cancer. Despite this, the CIR concludes that many PEG compounds “are safe for use” in cosmetics but adds that PEG compounds should “not be used on damaged skin.”

Myristyl Alcohol is derived from Myristyl Acid found in nutmeg, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, butter fat. Is it used in skin care as an emolient, an ingredient that soothes or softens the skin.

What: Cetearyl Alcohol is a mixture of fatty alcohols consisting predominantly of cetyl and stearyl alcohols found in plants, like Coconut and Palm oils (Wiki).

Cetearyl Alcohol is used in...

What: Deionized water, also known as demineralized water, is water that has had its mineral ions removed. These ions may include cations from sodium, calcium, iron, copper, and anions such as chloride and bromide. Water is demineralized as a means of purification (Wiki).

Organic Cabbage Rose Flower Extract is the essential oil of the Cabbage Rose, a very aromatic rose with a unique bloom consisting of many petals to loosely resemble a cabbage. It is a popular skin care ingredient because of its scent and its therapeutic properties, especially for mature, dry or inflamed skin. It soothes and calms irritations and redness and has a tightening effect on the skin.

Xanthan Gum is a natural gum that is a byproduct of the fermentation of glucose or sucrose and used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in cosmetics and food.

What: Buriti is a palm tree that grows throughout central Brazil and the southern Amazon basin in swamps and marshes.  The buriti fruit, which grows from December to June, contains an edible nut. Traditionally, the buriti fruit has been used as a food source. Parts of the buriti tree have also been used in construction, and buriti straw is used to cover houses and make ropes, baskets, sieves, racks for cooking, skirts and jewelry, such as bracelets (Vegetarian-Restaurants.net)...

What: The lemon tree is thought to have originated in Asia, first cultivated in Europe in Genoa in the middle of the 15th century, and introduced to Americas in 1493 when Christopher Columbus brought lemon seeds along on his voyages (Wiki). Lemon oil contains antiseptic, astringent and detoxifying properties and is effective in treating acne and oily skin, as well as brightening dull skin...

What: Cocoa butter is a pale-yellow, pure edible vegetable fat extracted from the cacao bean and has a mild chocolate flavor and aroma (Wiki). Cocoa butter is one of the most stable fats and contains natural antioxidants that prevent rancidity and give it a storage life of two to five years, making it a good choice for cosmetics. The butter has a smooth texture, sweet fragrance and is very emollient, making it a popular and effective ingredient for use in skin care...

What: Coconut oil is extracted from the kernel or meat of matured coconut harvested from the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) (Wiki). The oil contains antioxidant properties and helps in the healing of skin infections and bruising.

Coconut oil’s emollient properties make it a popular choice for cosmetic products, used to moisturize and soften skin and hair. Coconut oil is said to be effective in treating dandruff, dry and itchy scalp, dull hair, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and is used in many anti-aging skincare products. Coconut oil adds a protective layer, helping skin to retain moisture. It is also suitable for sensitive and irritated skin. Coconut oil is also an effective lathering agent, often used by cosmetic and soap makers....

What: Green coffee seed oil comes from the fresh, unroasted seeds (or beans) of the coffee plant and has a fresh, crisp scent. Green Coffee Seed Oil contains high levels of phytosterols which promote excellent moisture retention and quick penetration (From Nature with Love)...

What: Olive oil is an oil obtained from the olive, a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean Basin (Wiki). Olive oil is richly emollient and has long been used as a facial cleanser and moisturizer by Mediterranean women. The oil is also commonly used as a base oil for other essential oils. It is a stable oil with superior conditioning effects...

Tocopheryl Acetate also known as vitamin E acetate, is a common vitamin supplement, a natural preservative, anti-oxidant and skin moisturizer. It can be derived from vegetable oils and can also be found in dairy products, meat, eggs, grain and leafy green and yellow vegetables. It is an FDA approved food additive.

What: Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid which freezes to a gummy paste and has a high boiling point. Glycerin can be dissolved into water or alcohol, but not oils. On the other hand, many things will easily dissolve into glycerin, easier than they do into water or alcohol, so it is a good solvent (Pioneer Thinking)....

What: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is fractionated coconut oil, meaning a specific density of the coconut oil is extracted, similar to how cream is separated from milk. This oil has a very long shelf life and is a suitable carrier oil for essential oils, and plant and flower extracts. It is used in cosmetic products as an emollient, creating a barrier on the skin which helps skin to retain moisture...

What: Glyceryl Stearate Citrate is a fatty acid monoglyceride used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and stabilizing ingredient. It is also used as a fragrance and emollient ingredient. Glyceryl Stearate Citrate helps skin and hair to retain moisture...

What: Cupuacu Butter is the oil from the fruit of the Cupuaçu tree, common throughout the Amazon basin. It is widely cultivated in the jungles of Colombia and Peru and in the north of Brazil. (Wiki) Unlike the Cacao, the Cupuacu does not contain caffeine...

Look for creams and face toners that use small amounts of alcohol. Percentages should be based on recommendations from dermatologists. Irritation, dryness or other problems should not appear. Alcohol has antibacterial properties and plays and may play an important part in the preservation system of products...

What: Aloe vera, a succulent related to the Lily, long used for its ability to heal wounds, burns, and dry skin, as well as treat bug bites, sunburn, and bee stings. The gel from the Aloe plant provides a protective layer said to inhibit infection, soothe, and heal. When cut or broken the plant heals itself rapidly, the would barely detectable after only a few minutes. Aloe contains over 200 acitve compounds, including vitamins A, B, C, and E, amino acids, enzymes, minerals, and polysaccharides said to stimulate cell renewal and boost circulation. Aloe is both hydrating and gentle, making it a suitable for choice for sensitive skin...

What: Argan (Argania Spinosa) oil is deemed by many a super-ingredient for skin care due to its high levels of antioxidants, essential fatty acids and natural vitamin E, (Wiki). Because this natural oil is said to contain three times more anti-aging Vitamin E than any other natural oil, it is often used in skin care products for its restorative and anti-aging benefits...

What: Beeswax (Cera Alba) is a natural wax produced in the bee hive of honey bees of the genus Apis. It is mainly esters of fatty acids and various long chain alcohols. Typically, for a honey bee keeper, 10 pounds of honey yields 1 pound of wax (Wiki)...

What: Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract is an extract of the roots of the beet, a plant in the Chenopodiaceae family. It is best known in its numerous cultivated varieties, the most well known of which is probably the red or purple root vegetable known as the beetroot or garden beet (Wiki). Beets provide a good source of anthocyanadins, natural antioxidants that contribute to its deep red color, a natural source of vitamins and minerals...

What: Bilberry is any of several species of low-growing shrubs in the genus Vaccinium (family Ericaceae), bearing edible berries. The species most often referred to is Vaccinium myrtillus L., but there are several other closely related species (Wiki)...

What: Carmine (CI 75470) is an aluminum and calcium salt of carminic acid. It is one of the most ancient natural dyes, derived from the shells of the female insect Coccus Cacti. It is commonly used to achieve bright reds and pinks in lipsticks. Coal tar based colorants, the synthetic alternatives to Carmine, can irritate lips, dry lips out and thus are very problematic...

What: Chlorophyll (CI 75810) is a green pigment found in almost all plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. It is produced through the process of photosynthesis. In food, Chlorophyll is registered as a food additive (colorant), and its E number is E140. In cosmetics and hair products it is typically labeled as CI 75810 and used as a natural green dye (Wiki)...

What: Elemi comes from the Elemi tree, native to the Philippines, has been used in the Middle East for thousands of years as an antiseptic, and for treating scars and wounds. Used in essential oil form in skincare, Elemi is known for its ability to support collagen and promote cell regeneration. The oil has a mild citrus scent...

Diethanolamine (DEA) is a common wetting agent used in shampoos, skin care and cosmetics. It creates a rich lather in shampoos and produces a nice consistency in skin care. On its own, it is harmless, but when combined with other ingredients in a shampoo, cream or lotion, it reacts to produce nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA), an extremely carcinogenic compound which can easily be absorbed through the skin. It has been linked to stomach, bladder and intestinal cancers.

What: Honey is a saccharic secretion gathered and stored by honey bees, Apis mellifera. (EWG). It is widely used as a natural sweetener for food and drink, as well as an ingredient in cooking. Honey is also used as a treatment for sore throats, coughs, and may help reduce swelling, scarring, and speed wound healing...

What: Sweet Orange oil is the volatile oil obtained by expression from the fresh peel of the ripe fruit of the sweet orange, Citrus aurantium var. dulcis, Rutaceae. It is composed of mostly (greater than 90%) d-limonene, which is what gives the oil its familiar citrus aroma. Limonene is an effective, environmentally-friendly, and relatively safe solvent, making it a popular choice for a variety of stain removers and household cleaners (Wiki)...

What: Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae L.) are deciduous shrubs in the genus Hippophae, family Elaeagnaceae (Wiki). Sea buckthorn (or Seaberry) bushes yield orange berries which are high in Vitamin C, lending a vibrant orange hue to the berries. Sea buckthorn berries also contain vitamins A and E, as well as amino acids and antioxidants...

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is found in most shampoos and toothpaste. It is a known skin irritant and is absorbed through the skin and retained in the heart, liver and brain for long periods of time. It can cause damage to the eyes, even when absorbed through the skin. Exposure can lead to coughing, headaches, nausea and vomiting. It is an ingredient of great concern for scientists, especially when children are exposed to it. Oddly, Skin Deep only rates this ingredient a 3...

Synthetic color or FD&C colors are mostly derived from coal tar. Many have been banned from food by the FDA for various reasons: carcinogenicity, allergy inducing, general toxicity, etc. A number caused illnesses in children. They have been shown in clinical studies to cause various types of cancer...

What: Soybeans are a species of legume and contain significant amounts of amino acids, and omega-6 fatty acids. Soybean oil is obtained from Glycine Soja plant; this ingredient primarily consists of triglycerides of oleic, linoleic, linolenic and saturated acid (EWG). Soybean oil is used in cosmetics as an emollient (to soften and smooth) and emulsifier (to keep a product from separating). Soy also contains natural antioxidants...

What: Sunflower oil is extracted from the seeds of the sunflower, Helianthus annuus, and is rich in oleic acids and contains a high content of Vitamins A, D, and E. The oil also contains lecithin and unsaturated fatty acids, making it a nourishing and conditioning oil for skin and hair. Sunflower oil is typically used in products designed to treat dry, damaged, or mature skin and hair as an emollient. Sunflower oil provides moisture and a protective layer to the skin (Wiki)...

Talc is a naturally occurring substance that is used in cosmetic and baby powders as a filler material because of its consistency. It is an inert mineral with no inherent toxicity. Pure talc does not cause any skin reactions or irritations...

What: Turmeric is a relative of the ginger family and native to tropical South Asia. Its active component, curcumin, gives the spice its vibrant color and valued medicinal properties. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities, containing antioxidants which protect against cell damage and support the immune system. Turmeric has a history of effectively treating inflammatory diseases, digestive disorders, and protecting against environmental toxicants...

What: : Jojoba oil is extracted from the bean found inside the fruit of the shrub-like jojoba plant. The plant grows in arid climates, like Arizona, Mexico, and South America. The oil, which is classified as a wax, is odorless, non-comodogenic, and the oil most closely matched to the skin’s own sebum. These qualities make Jojoba oil a good emollient choice for use in cosmetics and is suitable for dry, sensitve, and acne-prone skin types. (Wiki)...

What: Lavender Flower Extract is the fluid made from the flowers of the Lavender plant, and is usually a combination of Lavender oil, water and alcohol. Lavender flower extract is less potent than Lavender oil, and is often used in cooking. Lavender flower extract carries the same properties as Lavender oil: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, cleansing, balancing, and soothing. Like the oil, it also aids in the healing of wounds, burns, sunburns, and is a popular ingredient in the treatment of acne...

What: Lavender, an herb belonging to mint family, is a purple flowering plant grown across the world. The plant grows best in dry, well-drained soil with access to full sun. The blooms have are very fragrant both fresh and dried. Lavender is widely used in herbalism, aromatherapy, and in cosmetics for its soothing, anti-septic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The herb has also been know to effectively treat acne, burns, bruises, and infections (Wiki)...

What: p-Anisic acid is found naturally in anise. It is a white crystalline solid which is insoluble in water and soluble in alcohols, ether, and ethyl acetate (Wiki). p-Anisic acid has antiseptic properties and is used as a preservative in cosmetic products...

What: The papaya, or pawpaw, is the fruit of the Carica papaya plant, in the genus Carica. It is native to the tropics of the Americas, and was first cultivated in Mexico. (Wiki). The fruit is eaten fresh or the unripe papaya can be used in cooked dishes. The extract from the fruit has shown significant antibacterial properties and has been used in the topical treatment of cuts, rashes, stings, and burns...

What: Paprika (Capsicum Annuum) is a spice derived from the Capsicum pepper. It is rich in vitamin C and contains more vitamin C than lemon juice by weight. Paprika is also high in other antioxidants, containing about 10% of the level found in Açaí berries. It is commonly used as a natural, red pigment to tint products and cosmetics. Paprika can also be used with henna to bring a reddish tint to the hair or skin when coloring it. (Wiki)...

What: Rapeseed (Brassica Napus) is the seed of rape plants and produces a non-fragrant oil that has emollient and potential anti-oxidant properties for the skin (Source: British Journal of Nutrition, May 2002, pages 489–499). Cold pressed rapeseed is used as a vegetable oil in many food and cosmetic products. It is very low in saturated fat, containing 59% mono-unsaturated fats and 31% poly-unsaturated fats. It is generally considered low in LDL cholesterol. It is also a natural source of vitamin E, a strong anti-oxidant which protects against aging in skin care...

What: Green algae are aquatic organisms containing chlorophyll, which gives it the green color. Green algae is often eaten and is a good source of Iodine, Calcium, Iron, Silicon, Copper, Zinc and Selenium. Algotherapy is the use of seaweed extracts in skin care and cosmetics. In the late 19th century, seaweed baths were a common luxury and this practice is still used in many spas today...

What: Green tea leaf extract is produced from the leaves of the tea plant, Camelia sinensis (EWG). The extract is rich in polyphenols, free radical-fighting antioxidants, found to help prevent premature aging and guard against UV damage. The polyphenol most abundant in green tea, EGCG, is also thought by some scientists to reactivate dying skin cells...

Mineral oils listed as petrolatum (petroleum jelly) or C-18 derivatives are frequently used in personal care products such as lipsticks, lubricants, baby lotions and oils. They commonly contain contaminants that studies have linked to cancer. UCLA studies links "high levels of exposure to mineral oils to increased mortality and incidence of lung cancer, ... melanoma" Source: PubMed.com...

Synthetic fragrances are commonly used in personal care products and are complex formulations containing as many as 200 ingredients. They are used because they are more affordable than pure natural essential oils.

Most adverse reactions to cosmetics and toiletries are caused by fragrance chemicals, which are known irritants and allergens. Many of ...

Genetically modified organisms are frequently plants that have been modified by scientists working for large corporations to engineer new traits into a field crop. Wikipedia provides a wealth of information on the topic of GMO food. This US PIRG (the national lobbying office of the state Public Interest Research Groups) report provides extensive data on the GMO issues...

What: Papaya Leaf Extract is an extract of the leaves of the papaya, Carica papaya, Caricaceae plant. As a cosmetic ingredient it functions as a tonic, Keratolytic. Carica Papaya is used in many shampoos, and hair conditioners. It is rich in amino acids and fruit enzymes, refreshes and stimulates skin...

What: Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) is a slightly yellowish or ivory colored natural vegetable fat extracted from the nut of the African tree Vitellaria paradoxa. The nut is primarily comprised of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, as well as Vitamins A, E and F, and Carotene (Wiki). Vitamins A and E soothe and hydrate skin while boosting collagen...

What: Carnauba Wax is a wax from the leaves of the palm Copernicia Prunifera, a plant found in northeastern Brazil. It is hypoallergenic, very emollient and has a high melting point — perfect for thickening skin care products (Wiki)...

What: Cinnamomum Cassia, or Cinnamon, is an evergreen tree native to southern China, Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam. The aromatic bark of the plant is commonly used as a spice but is too strong for use in skincare. The oil obtained from the leaf of the Cinnamon plant is less irritating and suitable for use in skincare products (Wiki).

What: Peppermint is a hybrid, a cross between watermint and spearmint. Indigenous to Europe, the peppermint plant now grows worldwide, and can be found growing wild. (Wiki).

What: Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, or milk acid. The salts of lactic acid naturally occur in muscle tissue, and sodium lactate is a component of the stratum coreum layer of the skin (Wiki)...

What: Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an organic compound and one of the forty to eighty essential human nutrients used by your body to turn carbohydrates into energy. This solid is colorless and water-soluble, and has been used to increase HDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Niacin is found in variety of foods, including liver, chicken, beef, fish, cereal, peanuts and legumes, and is also synthesized from tryptophan, which is found in meat, dairy and eggs (Wiki).

What: Safflower oil is from the seeds of the blooming Carthamus Tinctorius, native to arid environments with seasonal rain. Safflower oil contains linoleic acid that helps to soften dry skin. It is a lubricant and acts as a protective barrier to help the skin retain moisture (Wiki)...

What: Sodium Hyaluronate is the sodium salt of Hyaluronic acid. Sodium Hyaluronate has a smaller molecular size than Hyaluronic acid, causing it to easily penetrate the skin's surface, and is able to retain a relatively large amount of water — up to 1,000 its own weight. This means it can penetrate to lower layers of the skin, attract and retain water, and promote nutrient absorption.(Truth in Aging)

What: Zinc oxide is a natural mineral which provides the safest and most effective protection against UV rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, zinc forms a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them. Zinc Oxide is the best performing ingredient for blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc is nontoxic and less irritating to skin than chemical sunscreens (Wiki).

NEWS UPDATE: FDA's own tests now confirm lead in all 20 lipsticks it tested!

Apply, lick off, and repeat. That’s what we as women do many times a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Sure, it comes off on a glass, a friend’s cheek, a lover’s lips. But over the course of a lifetime, we swallow a fair amount of lipstick. Four pounds according to Glamour Magazine, six pounds according to urban lore, and nine pounds according to the Environment Working Group, a consumer advocacy group. Whomever you believe, it’s enough consumed lipstick that should make any woman ask...

What: Brown algae (commonly referred to as seaweed) is used as a emollient (to soften and smooth skin), for anti-bacterial purposes and as an antioxidant. It is commonly found in skin care products such as toners, moisturizers, serums and treatments...

What: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is derived from sugar beets or cane sugar and is a key active ingredient for natural self-tanners. The skin-browning effect is the result of a nontoxic chemical reaction between DHA and the amino acids which are part of the keratinous layer of the skin’s surface, much like the browning effect in food caramelization. The resulting color is called melanoidins, similar in color to the melanins our bodies produce naturally when exposed to UV rays...

What: Erythlurose is a ketone sugar commonly found in raspberries. It is also a key active ingredient for natural self-tanners, most often combined with Dihydroxyacetone. Erythrulose, like Dihydroxyacetone, reacts with the amino acids in the keratin protein on the outer layer of skin. The nontoxic reaction creates a color change in the skin, similar to a cut apple exposed to oxygen, and gives the appearance of an actual sun tan. This tanned effect sloughs away gradually over the course of 3-10 days...