Skin Deep
By: Shoshanna Levy
Published: May 2, 2011

Many people are now aware of the importance of eating a diet packed with whole foods and the risks associated with loading up on processed, additive-laden foods. Often, these same conscious individuals aren't aware that their skin, hair, and beauty products are also filled with a variety of toxic chemicals. Anything that you put on your skin is absorbed by the body, your liver and kidneys still have to filter out any harmful ingredients.
What is even more surprising, is just how many organic and natural products contain the same toxins as the drugstore brands. Whether you spend 60$ on a fancy brand or 5$ at your local health food store, it's crucial to read the labels. But what exactly are you looking for? Thanks to the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Data base, it's easier than ever to learn which brands to avoid and which will nourish your skin and body. Plug in any individual ingredient or product and it will give you the low down on the level of toxicity. Your body will thank you!
Photos: Maddock Douglas and Swamibu