Over the years, I vaguely remember hearing from time to time that our cosmetics and personal care items contained chemicals that are dangerous to our bodies and overall well-being. Perhaps, like most of us, that bit of information went in one ear and out the other. I just assumed that activists and alarmists were working overtime.

Then, last year, I attended a conference that focused on the importance of thoroughly examining the ingredients in all the products we use on our bodies and in our homes. In listening to the information and the facts concerning this vaguely familiar issue, I began to feel a sense of urgency in making-over my make-up and being diligent about making healthier choices for my family.

FACT:

1. The cosmetic industry is in desperate need of a makeover.

2. Toxic chemicals linked to cancer, birth defects, and learning disabilities do not belong in products we smear on our bodies.

3. Products we use every day get inside our bodies and minds and greatly contribute to the detriment of our health.

4. The pink ribbon leaders in the fight against breast cancer use hormone-disrupting chemicals that may contribute to that very disease.

5. Many men and women of childbearing age use products that contain chemicals linked to birth defects and infertility.

6. Blood analyzed for chemicals found that hundreds of industrial chemical compounds, including pesticides, stain repellents, flame retardants, plasticizers, even PCBs were found in newborn babies, fresh from the womb.

7. Over time, these chemicals build up in our bodies and cause havoc on our health.

8. The $35 billion cosmetic industry is so powerful that they have kept themselves unregulated for decades.

The good news is that safer products are available but can be hard to find in the United States primarily because in our country toxic chemicals are cheap so that is what is used and produced to make us look and feel better about ourselves.

If you have not read the book, "Not Just a Pretty Face" by Stacy Malkan, I would encourage your to enlighten yourself to The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry. Also, check out www.CosmeticDataBase.com and examine the site for valuable information concerning the products you purchase and use daily.

Don't dismiss this information like I did many years ago, but examine the issue because it could be valuable to you and your family now and for years to come.