The first thing to discuss is what topsoil is. Topsoil is exactly what the name topsoil would suggest. It is the top layer of the soil, thus the name topsoil. It is a limited natural resource, which is a necessary component in the circle of life. Topsoil came about through rocks, broken down by the air and weathered over many years, eventually being transformed into soil. After there was topsoil, plants, trees, bushes, and the like were soon to follow. After there were plants, the animals came, and then there were finally people. Why did it have to happen like that?

It had to happen in that order because plants cannot survive without topsoil and animals and people cannot survive without plants. This all sounds like it could have all happened five hundred billion years ago, but I assure you it is still going on right now in the circle of life. It could take thousands of years for nature to produce one inch of proper topsoil. Therefore it is safe to say that much of what we call topsoil is not real topsoil. Real topsoil goes through a process in which twigs, leaves, and other dead things decompose into the soil creating a layer of topsoil absolutely loaded in nutrients. This is the process which could take thousands of years to produce one inch of proper topsoil.

We all either eat plants or plant products, such as milk, cheese, eggs, meat, or pizza. What we eat depends on there being enough good topsoil in which to grow plants and trees and the like. If there are not enough of these essential nutrients in the topsoil, plants will not be able to grow healthily. This would have a domino effect which would result in people not having enough food to eat.

An alternative to topsoil, which is really nothing more than a replacement of the real thing as opposed to a real alternative, is what is underneath real topsoil. Topsoil is usually no more than two to eight inches thick depending on the region. Underneath topsoil are three other layers of dirt, also known as horizons. Only the top horizon (Horizon A) is suitable to sustain life. The other three layers are either too hard, too soft, or just lack the nutrients needed to sustain life. Unfortunately, much of the market's “topsoil” is nothing more than soil from these other layers. These subsoils are not suitable for planting, which can perhaps explain why we sometimes have a hard time planting even though we do everything right. If the soil lacking the requirements to sustain life, there will be nothing but dead plants no matter what we do.

You may be wondering where all the topsoil is going and why there is not enough topsoil on this planet to only sell the real stuff. This can be explained by pointing to wasteful farming practices and forestry methods. We have lost an estimated fifty million acres of some of our best topsoil and damaged over a hundred million more acres of topsoil due to wasteful farming practices. There is a common misconception that topsoil is nothing but dead dirt and that we can do with it as we please. This, as stated before cannot be further from the truth. Only when topsoil is left alone, and nature is allowed to take its slow yet successful course, will topsoil be able to reach its full potential. As a result of all of this waste, we are beginning to feel a shortage of good quality, natural topsoil. Farmers have been able to make their own topsoil, which actually can sustain life, but there is clearly no replacing the real thing.

If you ever find yourself staring at a bag labeled topsoil and wondering if it is real topsoil, there actually are some things you can do to ensure you will be able to plant what you want. There are composts you can add to topsoil to kill bacteria and fungi and add nutrients which will help your plants grow. And there are also a number of chemical tests you can perform on a sample of the soil if you are planning on ordering many bags and you do not want to take the chance of watching hundreds of plants die. These chemicals tests can be done at a minimal cost (usually about thirty dollars) but it could be very well worth the investment.

Visit www.1800topsoil.com for more articles and resources on topsoil and to use our topsoil calculator.

1800TopSoil The top choice in topsoil and top soil. Nationwide provider of topsoil and top soil in your local area for all your landscape supply. Years of experience in the topsoil and top soil industry to help you with topsoil and top soil for landscape supplies.

Some people seem to be into it too right now. A rash of new whiskers has matured over the past year or two and now in places has escalated to beards at times reminiscent of Civil War Era style. Some have begun experimenting with different beard styles, instead of swapping tips on hair styling products. You?ve likely seen the goatee become less popular and the soul spots emerge. You may be seeing the beard without the moustache. Even though we haven?t seen it much since the 1980?s, the moustache itself is making a comeback too.

It may be the tendency to look deeper for reasons in the facial hair becoming mainstream phenomena. Deep reasons may not be at the core. These beards may not suggest dissatisfaction with ?the system?, or outwardly manifest melancholy. Some feel that in this age it is more likely that style is to blame. People are choosing style for visual impact, not asserting a viewpoint, per se.

Could it be though, that certain men are bucking the tide of what they have seen as metrosexual conformity, and are beginning to sport facial hair styles ranging from unkempt, bushy to neat? Perhaps some are bucking the lately culturally acceptable look of the plucked, waxed, scrubbed and shaven man? Who can know for certain? Perhapsit is the case that some men want to feel manly and rough again.

Many models at runway shows, at times upwards of half, sport varying degrees of more extreme facial hair. City streets are sporting a skinny populace that flaunts a varied batch of unruly facial hair. These are lowering the bar away from the absolute grooming rules we?ve seen these past years. Designers and men?s magazine professionals alike are embracing the new, but old, masculine ideal of the lumberjack look. We?re beginning to see some celebrities show of their facial tresses too. It will be interesting to see just how far the beard trend goes.

Many of those newly favored with their facial hair accomplishments hope, feel, and swear they are carrying along with them new erotic charge. Some feel an increased sense of confidence and security. Some feel more laid back, some feel cool, others feel they walk differently.

And what do the girls think of the furry trend? Most surveys suggest that only about 2 to 3 percent of women find the full beard to be sexy. And that those women that love the facial hair, really, really love it. The general impression is that women either love moustaches or are repulsed by them.

A man named Della Vale made a documentary ?The Glorious Moustache Challenge” in which 30 men were persuaded to grow moustaches for a month. These men were asked the reactions of those around them and what difference it made in their lives. Most of the men became quite fond of their new moustaches. Some would now feel naked without them.

On the flip side, some remarked on feeling less confident, more insecure, less like themselves, tired of discussing their moustache with others.

One may be accused of trying to find a new identity. Or maybe reminding your mother of a man she once knew well or an adult movie star from the past. Perhaps you?ll be accused of scratching the kids when they hug you. Only a small few may like it on you. Can you handle it? Perhaps the facial hair trend will prove to be a tougher sell for the average Joe.

If you are thinking about wearing your own variety of facial hair (moustache etc.), you should consider the following:

? Color of your facial hair
? Size of your nose
? Thickness of facial your facial hair
? Shape of your chin and jaw lines
? Texture of facial hair
? Length of your mouth
? Fullness and size of your upper lip area

Your barber or stylist should be a great resource to help you along. Facial hair has at times also been a way for folks to hide scars or what they feel are structural facial flaws. Some have disguised a soft jaw-lines, rounded, square faces or pointy chins with beards. Be prepared that keeping any facial hair takes time and care. Shaping, maintaining, shampooing, conditioning, trimmer and scissor trimming, even caring for your bare patches with blending attachments and/or waterproof colored eyebrow pencils. What kind of styling products do you use again???

Robert Carney is publisher and owner of Old Crappy Tee. To stay informed on the latest t-shirt fashions, visit http://www.oldcrappytee.com.

The epidermis contains no blood vessels, and cells in the deepest layers are nourished by diffusion from blood capillaries extending to the uppermost layers of the dermis. The average square inch of skin holds 650 sweat glands, 20 blood vessels, 60,000 melanocytes, and more than a thousand nerve endings. The outermost layer of epidermis consists of 25 to 30 layers of dead cells.

When the oil glands do not supply enough lubrication to the skin, the skin becomes dehydrated. Skin gets exposed to the elements, especially in winter, causing it to become drier. Serious skin complications, including a dry skin condition, can arise for people with type 2 diabetes.

Dry skin can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, systemic illness, overexposure to sunlight or some medications. If you break out on the skin around your eyes, it could be the shellac in your mascara buy a shellac-free mascara like Ecco Bella's. Dry skin can be due to a genetic condition but it's not common.

Good clear skin is usually a reflection of having a good working non-constipated digestive system. Eat an avocado every day put it in your salad or mash it up and eat it with a spoon. Eating fruits that are red or orange in color will help improve you skin health and help to prevent acne.

Keep baths or showers short using warm, never hot water. Dry and pat your skin gently and thoroughly after a bath or shower if it's extremely dry or irritated. Take fewer baths or showers they'll dry out your skin even more.

The best natural dry skin care product is coconut oil. When you buy coconut oil, make sure you get the kind that hasn't been refined, processed and deodorized. Coconut oil is the best healing, soothing, and moisturizing treatment I've found for dry skin in fact for all types of skin conditions, skin eruptions, pimples, acne, milia, irritations, cuts, burns, fungus, etc. Apply coconut oil daily to your skin to heal, moisturize and soothe it.

If you have acne, eczema or any type of dermatitis coconut oil will treat and quickly heal these skin conditions too. Coconut oil is very inexpensive - a great, cheap home remedy for all skin conditions.

Sunlight, water and air play an important role in keeping the skin healthy. Many skin conditions can be converted into clear, healthy skin by using natural home remedies.

Following some of the above suggestions and treatments, and most of all coconut oil, your dry skin should be well on its way to recovery. And did I mention to drink lots and lots of water every day? You should see the results with improved skin within a few days following these dry skin tips and information.

For more information on coconut oil treatment for dry skin and dry skin care treatments go to http://www.Best-Skin-Care-Tips.com Helen Hecker R.N.'s website specializing in care for skin conditions with tips, advice and resources for women, men, teens and babies, including information on the best natural products

The skin has two main layers, the epidermis and the dermis. The dermis contains collagen, which gives the skin its fullness and resilience. Collagen is held together in bundles by a protein called elastin. Together they allow the skin to spring back into its natural state without being distorted. The condition of elastin and collagen displays the symptoms of aging.

SKIN TYPE:

Dry Skin: This occurs when the epidermis of the skin does not contain enough lipids, so your skin cannot retain adequate moisture. Dry skin can be caused by internal factors, such as stress, illness, drug therapy or hereditary disposition of dry skin. It can also be due to external factors, such as weather and cleansers.

Oily or Greasy Skin: Sebum is the skin?s protective mantel, which helps to keep the skin supple. Excess sebum production causes oily skin, which can lead to the formation of spots, blackheads and open pores.

Combination Skin: This is when the nose, forehead and chin are oily, due to there being more sebaceous being present there and the cheeks are dry.

Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin is usually very dry and reacts to many external substances, causing red, itchy, blotchy, flaky skin. Stress is a major factor which causes sensitive skin.

Asian skin has larger, more numerous sebaceous glands, thicker epidermis and larger melanin cells compared to white Caucasian skin. Darker skin types are prone to noticeable scarring. Products especially effective at fading scars are those which contain a combination of Vitamin A and E, which promotes skin repair and rejuvenates the skin. Asian skin is also easily darkened by the sun. Asian skin has a larger number of melanocytes compared to Caucasian skin, therefore it darkens much faster. To prevent this from happening, products with a high SPF factor (of 25 or more) used as a daily moisturiser, is perfect for you. Also, a most effective skin lightener for the hyper- pigmentation should contain Kojic acid. (Kojic Dipalmitate is the stable form).

Acne is a particular problem for Asian skins, due to the high frequency of sebaceous glands releasing sebum. If it is not dealt with properly, visible scarring and darker pigmented areas can cover the face, which can be very distressing. There are a number of acne treatments to try, such as drug therapies and antibiotics, but the best for removing acne scarring is Laser and Intense Pulse Treatments.

Collagen and elastin keep the skin supple. Together, these two substances keep young skin smooth, firm and flexible. With age, collagen and elastin fibres become less efficient. Your genetic makeup plays a major part in the way your skin ages.

The single most influential cause of premature skin aging is exposure to UVA light. It triggers free radical activity in the skin, which leads to the gradual erosion of structure of collagen and elastin, causing them to break down. This in turn causes the formation of fine lines, larger wrinkles and loose, sagging skin.

The next most significant factor affecting the rate at which your skin will age is whether you smoke or not. Smoking introduces harsh toxins and damaging oxidants into the body.

The skin expresses the body?s degeneration via dryness, loss of tone, wrinkles and sagging. There are four important steps you can take now to prevent premature aging:

(a) wear UVA sunscreens all year round - you can do this easily by choosing a moisturiser containing sunscreen

(b) stop smoking,

(c) wear anti aging facial moisturisers

(d) take vitamins rich in anti-oxidants. Vitamin E cream is also helpful because it fights free radical activity in the body.

If cared for properly, the skin can keep a good complexion and remain youthful looking for a longer period of time!

Shashi Gossain is a Pharmacist, a Member of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and a Member of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists. She owns the PharmaClinix Health and Beauty Clinic in London. Using the latest scientific research in the beauty industry, she created the PharmaClinix.com range of cosmeceutical creams, available online, and has written ?The Ultimate Anti-Ageing Book.? To learn more about the book and products, call 020 8969 0063. Shashi has launched two specialist Introduction Services for Indian Professionals and Professional Muslims Worldwide

Everyone is susceptible to acne. Teenagers experience it the worst as their hormones rage, but adults can experience it as well. A natural acne remedy will work for anyone at any age. It is also important to know that a natural acne remedy will work on any part of the face or body that acne is present. This means that a natural acne remedy can be applied to the neck, back, and underarms among other places.

A natural acne remedy is going to be made from all-natural ingredients. These usually include vitamins, herbs, minerals, or some combination of those three. The point is that they are all natural. When choosing a natural acne remedy, it is a good idea to check the list of ingredients. It is wise to look up these ingredients to ensure that everything is natural and there will be no surprises when the natural acne remedy arrives.

When dealing with something as important as the face, it is a good idea to be cautious. This means choosing a natural acne remedy that has few to no side effects. When a product is all-natural, there are generally few side effects anyway, but it never hurts to be sure. Check for clinical studies on any natural acne remedy. This can help ease the mind when trying a natural acne remedy for the first time.

The best part of any natural acne remedy is that it will work consistently to keep skin clear. Acne flare-ups are generally very red due to irritation and inflammation. A natural acne remedy will help to reduce the irritation and inflammation and clear out the bacteria in pores. Continued use of the natural acne remedy will ensure that future breakouts are minimal to none. This is wonderful peace of mind, and all it takes is a natural acne remedy!

One of the worst parts about acne is that it can lead to acne scars. This is usually from people popping their pimples, but pimples can also pop on their own. No matter how diligent a person is, acne scars can still appear. A natural acne remedy can also help reduce the appearance of acne scars. This makes the natural acne remedy one stop shopping to kick acne to the curb!

A natural acne remedy can do so much for a person?s self-esteem. A natural acne remedy can make someone feel attractive and even desirable. A natural acne remedy can restore confidence that was once lost. A natural acne remedy can help someone to come out of his or her shell. A natural acne remedy gives a person an entirely new perspective on the world!

Hi everyone. My name is Dr. Jim Schwartz from http://www.Herbal-Heaven.com, where we like to give Nature a little helping hand -)

I have been in the natural health supplement business for over 14 years and I have seen a lot of weight loss and diet fads come and go. I'd like to use this platform to get the plain facts out.

All the natural health supplements I recommend actually work and are completely safe to use and with no nasty side effects.

My goal in this business has always been to make people feel better about themselves - both inside and out!

So I hope you find my articles of interest and I wish you the very best of health

Dr. Jim http://www.herbal-heaven.com

Alas, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and most other acne washes do not wash away zits.

One trap to fall into with cleansers is over cleansing, which can aggravate acne. The next trap, which is common, is to expect too much from one product.

For example, benzoyl peroxide works by destroying excess acne provoking bacteria. Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin and clears the pores, which reduces the chances for waste buildup in the pores and producing a zit.

If you have severe acne like I did, over the counter acne washes cannot provide the amount of bacteria control and exfoliation you need to keep acne at bay.

It's like trying to empty a bathtub with a teaspoon instead of just unplugging the water clog. Severe acne requires regulating the skin on an internal and external level. You can regulate the growth of excess bacteria on the face and body in a number of ways.

1. Decrease or control your stress response.

Stress sets off a series of hormonal reactions that can ultimately produce excess oil on the face and provide an ideal environment for excess acne-causing bacteria growth on the face.

2. Moderate sugar consumption.

Excess sugar, like stress, moves the hormones to excrete more oil on the face. It's not the chocolate the causes the acne, just the collective hormonal response of a sugar overload.

3. Take a multi-vitamin.

It may sound silly, or trivial, but taking a multivitamin can provide vital nutrients that boosts the immune system and help you manage stress better. Collectively, strong immunity and stress control help reduce acne breakouts.

I learned these three points the hard way. Trial and error and buying a lot of acne skin care products. If your at a loss about choosing an acne product, I can only say this, high price does not guarantee high quality. When I used Oxy 10 for instance, I found it worked just as well as products that costs 5 times as much. One drawback is that these drying products are not ideal for maturing skin. If you are battling acne and wrinkles, I suggest using essential oils to combat acne flair-ups such as tea tree or eucalyptus oil.

On a final note, if you've been using an acne cleanser for months with no noticeable improvement in your skin, I suggest trying to regulate you skin's condition from the inside, with sound nutrition and relaxation.

Health author and Stanford University graduate Naweko San-Joyz lovingly writes from her home in San Diego. Her works include ?Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne? (ISBN: 0974912204) and the upcoming work ?Skinny Fat Chicks, Why we?re still not getting this dieting thing? (ISBN: 0974912212) for release in June of 2005. For useful acne self-help articles visit http://www.Noixia.com

Acnezine has Loyal Users

Acnezine users swear by the product and tout its many benefits, including reduced oil production, reduced redness and subsequent scarring, and, in general, clearer, healthier skin. For Acnezine users, Acnezine is the acne remedy to end all acne remedies.

Unlike traditional, non-prescription acne treatments, Acnezine does not simply address the external effects of acne. Most topical acne treatments commonly used are meant to cleanse your skin and dry up naturally occurring skin oil and zits once they have already sprouted.

And, as you may know, many prescription medications that address the problem of acne are formulated to do the same, only in a significantly harsher manner. Acnezine is said to be different in that it is an acne treatment that addresses all of your acne-related skin problems like whiteheads, blackheads, and acne spots in addition to providing herbal nutritional support for your skin as a whole. According to users, Acnezine is skin health in a magic pill.

Acnezine users report fewer pimples on their face and body, skin that is less oily, and acne spots and discolorations that disappear faster than ever. Acnezine provides acne treatment that users say is far better than they ever got just using a topical cleanser.

Many users are attracted to the fact that Acnezine is an all natural products and has no side effects. By far, however, users most appreciate the fact that Acnezine treats their acne before it even appears! By helping your body control oil production and ensuring that your body?s defenses against free radicals are supported, Acnezine can not only stop your acne in its tracks, it can promote smoother, healthier-looking skin.

Acnezine users, some who have suffered from the embarrassing effects of acne for years, have stated that this is the only product that has had any effect on their acne. Others have lamented the harsh effects that other treatments have had on their skin.

Acnezine appeals to users who prefer an all natural product and who have not had success clearing their skin with topical treatments alone. The prospect of having your acne disappear is tantalizing, but the thought of your acne never appearing at all is exactly what makes Acnezine users love the product. Does Acnezine work? Users clearly say yes!

Is Acnezine for You?

Acnezine may not work for everyone, but that does not mean that acnezine does not work, or that it will not work for you. There are several reasons that the skin treatment market is such big business. Two of these reasons are very clear. Not every acne treatment product works for everyone and not everyone can clear up their skin problems with a topical treatment alone.

Learn more about the comparison of Acnezine vs. Prescription Medications

Cathie Alizah is a writer and researcher, and has written extensively on numerous health topics and products like Acnezine. She is also webmaster of many sites including http://www.acnezine-reviews.com. You can find much information at Acnezine Reviews.

As you may know, some vegetable oils are more fragile than others when heated . If these oils are damaged they can cause oxidative stress to our cells. So ideally we should use oils which are stable at the temperature we use them at. Go to the end of this page for our list of the best oils for cooking.

Recently I was asked some questions about vegetable oils. Just Garcia in Spain wanted to know:?Is sunflower oil OK for cooking? Or should you use Olive oil? What kind of vegetable oils do you recommend for eating? Is it possible to mix them in our diet? Is there any incompatibility between different kinds of vegetable oils??

I would like to eat a meal prepared by Just! I sometimes get e-mails from him telling me what they made for dinner. He really enjoys making and eating their food and I know they have plenty of fresh produce available in their region.

To answer Just?s questions?

I have to say I feel cautious about the sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is less stable than olive oil and I don?t recommend it for cooking. Sunflower oil is about two-thirds polyunsaturated fat and is therefore much more prone to damage from heat and light than olive oil, which is about 75% monounsaturated.

If you can obtain high quality cold-pressed sunflower oil then it may be good in salad dressings ? it has a delicious flavour. But most common sunflower oil, in particular that sold in large clear plastic containers is already quite degraded. It will have been heated in the extraction process and then stored for a long time with further attack from light.

The other problem with regularly eating sunflower oil is that it contains a high proportion of omega-6 fatty acids. If you would like to read why this is a problem have a look at my article about Rice Bran Oil in the contact info below. This article contains a lot of useful information about the whole issue of cooking oils.

Using olive oil in salads and as a dip is a good idea. Olive oil is perhaps the best oil to use regularly. It stores well and is stable enough to use for moderate temperature cooking. Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil where possible - it has had the least processing and filtering.

To answer the final question from Just, there are no nutritional problem with mixing oils together. Use combinations that taste good to you. I often add a few drops of sesame oil to rice bran oil when cooking Asian dishes for an exotic aroma and flavour.

Like Sunflower oil, many other seed, nut and vegetable oils have similar issues. Oils in plastic bottles from the supermarket, like canola, soya and corn oil, are highly processed, degraded, and possibly sourced from genetically engineered crops. Avoid them!

Here is our list of the best oils for cooking , together with ideal temperature ranges for use.

For high temperature cooking such as pan-frying, stir-fries and roasting:(use these in small amounts)

For moderate temperature cooking like baking and saut?s

For salad dressings, dips, spreads (unheated):

Copyright Wild Health and Roger Wilde 2007

New Zealander Roger Wild is a chef and nutritionist, who encourages people to experience full health through positive food and lifestyle choices.Get his recipes and straight forward advice to stay motivated, eat well and be healthy.

Check out his ?Healthy food made easy? website.Sign up and get recipes like: Easy gluten free cookies and articles like: Rice Bran Oil

In this procedure the goal is to correct and change the shape and balance of the face using formed implants to build up a diminishing chin, add distinction to cheekbones, or reshape the jaw line.

Length and details of the Facial Implant procedure

The length of operation typically runs 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Patients are usually given a general or local anesthesia, with sedation.

Most Facial Implants procedures are routinely outpatient with some cases requiring an overnight hospital stay.

Risks and/or complications related to a Facial Implant procedure

In a Facial Implant surgery the patient may experience potential side effects consisting of temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising, numbness and/or stiffness in the lower facial areas. If the procedure includes surgery to the jaw, a patient may experience the inability to open fully open their mouth for several weeks.

In addition there are other associated risks with this procedure that include the risk of shifting or inexact positioning of implant, infection, excess tightening and hardening of scar tissue in the region of the formed implant.

Patients may return to work in approximately 1 week. Those involved in sports or other physical activities should avoid activity that could jar or bump face. Individuals will be able to resume these activities in approximately 6 weeks or more. Long-term results of a Facial Implant procedure

In this procedure the end results are usually permanent.

How much does a Facial Implant procedure cost?

The national average for cheek implants is approximately $2,300

Will my insurance cover a Facial Implant procedure?

Because a Facial Implant procedure is considered an elective procedure, insurance usually will not cover the operation. However in some cases such as reconstructive surgery it may be medically necessary, your health care insurance may be able to cover the costs.

Read more about Facial Implant Information and its benefits. Alan Hood is a contributing writer at http://www.houstonmedcenter.com.

Your family's trusted soap, shampoo &amp toothpaste the bubble bath and lotion your baby uses every day your favourite face cream, lipstick, perfume and cleanser and for the men - your shaving cream, aftershave lotion, hair gel and even face scrub may all be cancer causing or carcinogenic.

Greater exposure from skin absorption

Your skin is the largest living organ of your body and many cancer-causing chemicals can be absorbed through it into the bloodstream. Research at the University of Pittsburgh shows that twice as much toxic chemicals can enter our body through the skin as through the intestine. Cosmetic and personal care products are most certainly absorbed through the skin.

Dr. Mercola says “putting chemicals on your skin is actually far worse than ingesting them, because when you eat something the enzymes in your saliva and stomach help break down and flush it out of your body. When you put these chemicals on your skin, however, it is absorbed straight into your blood stream without filtering of any kind”.

The average woman absorbs over 5Lbs of ingredients from face and body-care products (excluding cosmetics) into her bloodstream over 60 years. Parabens have been shown to mimic oestrogen and may lead to an increased risk of developing cancer. British researchers have found traces of these chemicals in tissue taken from women with breast cancer. While there is no evidence that the parabens cause the cancers, tests suggest that chemicals do seep into the tissue after being applied to the skin.

According to a study quoted in The Safe Shopper's Bible, 13% of the cosmetic preservative, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) &amp 49% of the carcinogenic pesticide DDT (which is found in some cosmetics containing lanolin, is absorbed through the skin. Some chemicals like saccharin and fluoride in toothpaste can be ingested during use.

Applying creams and oils is NO DIFFERENT from eating them, because they enter the blood-stream regardless if they are ingested in the mouth or absorbed through the skin! If you want to experience how quickly your skin absorbs everything just rub garlic on the sole of your foot and wait 20 minutes to taste it in your mouth. So why don't you rub something good into your skin? There are hundreds of chemicals in skin and body care products, which are harmful. The 10 most common ones are listed below:

A list of the most common chemical ingredients found in beauty products

Parabens (Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl-, Ethyl-): Some combination of these synthetic ingredients are in almost EVERY skin and hair product made today. Widely known to be highly toxic and cause allergic/skin reactions. Companies use this dangerous ingredient, because it is extremely cheap and extends the shelf life of the product by inhibiting microbial growth. It has shown to be teratogenic in mouse studies and may contain 1,4-dioxane, which is a carcinogen.

Propylene glycol (1,2-Propanediol): is used as avent, humectant and skin-conditioning agent found in most shampoos, conditioners and lotions. It is a petroleum derivative, the major ingredient in industrial anti-freeze, brake &amp hydraulic fluids. A carcinogen, teratogen and suspected neuron-toxic hazard. Linked to skin irritation, provokes acne, gastro-intestinal disturbances, nausea, headaches &amp vomiting. Over exposure can cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage.

DMDM Hydrantoin A Petro-chemical used as an anti-freeze in cars.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): and the alcohol form of SLS. Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS). A detergent and emulsifier which strips the skin of its natural oils, interfering with the skin's barrier function and making it easier for other chemicals to get through. Japanese studies have found SLS to be a mutagen. According to toxicologists, any chemical capable of causing mutations (that is it can alter DNA) is likely to increase the risk of cancer. The real danger with this chemical is that it can react with other chemicals used in cosmetics to form nitrates. Nitrates are known cancer-causing agents. According to experts, once nitrates have formed, they can enter the bloodstream in large numbers from shampooing, and from using bubble bath, shower gels and facial cleansers. SLS &amp SLES are reportedly the only known cleansing agent to enter the blood system.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is considered milder than Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate but contains 1,4 dioxane, a carcinogen. A foaming agent and one of the most commonly used chemicals found in cosmetics. Also used in car washes, engine degreasers, garage floor cleaners and other products, which need foaming. It is absorbed by the skin and can cause damage to skin, liver, brain, lung, heart and eyes. Can also damage the immune system and cause hair loss.

Health Hazards have been known about SLS &amp SLES for many years as stated in the journal of American College of Toxicology (1983), they include tissue damage that could result in brain, liver, heart and lung damage in the long term, eye damage, degradation of the immune system, sever skin irritation, hair loss and eczema. When absorbed thru the skin SLS maintains residual body levels in the heart, liver, lungs and brain. Further reference see Dangerous Beauty Cosmetic &amp Personal care: Peter Dingi &amp Toni Brown 1999.

Fragrance: today's perfumes are not made from flowers but from chemicals, 95% of which are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. Just one perfume can contain more than 500 chemicals and can cause dizziness, skin irritation and hyper-pigmentation. The words fragrance free aren't a safeguard either, as smell-masking chemicals may have been added instead. Benzene, aldehyde, toluene, methylene chloride, limonene, benzyl acetate, aniline-D5, safrole, dimethyl sulfate all found by the US EPA, NTP &amp House of Representatives Committee on Science &amp Technology to be carcinogenic. Butanol (group 1-, 2-, and Tert-), fragrances are highly neuron-toxic. Irritating to the eyes, nose and throat. Can trigger an asthmatic reaction in previously healthy people.

Artificial Colours: Labeled as FD&ampC or D&ampC, followed by colour numbers such as FDC Red 4, FDC Red 1, or Food Red 1. These are band in all foods as they are known causes of urinary bladder polyps and wasting of the adrenal glands. But they can still be used in cosmetics! FD&ampC Blue No.1 is a known carcinogen. FD&ampC Yellow No.5 (CI 19140) &amp 6 (CI 15985) &amp D&ampC No.33 (CI 17200, impurities found in commercial batches of these colours have been shown to cause cancer not only when ingested, but also when applied to the skin. Some artificial coal tar colours also contain heavy metal impurities, including arsenic and lead, which are carcinogenic.

Petrolatum: petroleum based chemicals exude synthetic estrogen which are called Xeno Estrogens. These bad estrogens are absorbed thru the skin and accumulate in our organs. They also affect our respiratory system and can play havoc with the hormone balance. Petrochemicals are used in artificial colours, plastic, polyester, foam rubber, cosmetics, perfumes, formaldehyde, toothpastes, mouthwashes, hair sprays, shampoos, lotions and preservatives (that go in cosmetics as well as food).

Triethanolamine (TEA)/Diethanolamine (DEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA): are the most commonly used chemicals in cosmetics. Used as a lathering agent and to adjust the pH in cleansers, soaps, moisturising lotions and creams, shampoos and conditioners. Readily absorbed through the skin and accumulated in organs. One study found that the topical application of DEA in rodents resulted in anemia, kidney degeneration, and nerve damage to the brain and spinal cord. (Melnick et al., 1994) Even more disturbing was that several animals died before the study ended. High concentrations of DEA-based detergents are commonly used in a wide range of cosmetics and personal care products, including shampoos, hair dyes &amp conditioners, lotions, creams and bubble baths. Lifelong use of these products clearly poses avoidable cancer risks to consumers, particularly babies and young children. DEA related ingredients such as Stearamide DEA, Lauramide DEA, Cocamide DEA are widely used in a variety of cosmetic products. These ingredients function as emulsifiers or foaming agents.

Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea: Used as a preservative, but a primary cause of contact dermatitis. You might see these toxic chemicals under the names Germall II and Germall 115, which release formaldehyde at just over 10?.

Formaldehyde: A preservative used in many cosmetics especially nail hardeners and nail polish, which causes negative skin reactions. If it isn't listed as formaldehyde then look for formaldehyde derived imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, 2-bromo-2-nitropane-1, 3-diol, DMDM hydantoin, and quarternium 15.

A carcinogen and irritant to the respiratory system and skin, causes dizziness, headaches, chest pain and weakens the immune system. The chemical name is Formalin (usually the name used on nail polish labels in preference to formaldehyde. Used as a preservative in shampoos, baby washes, mascara, creams, bubble baths, anti-dandruff shampoos and some deodorants.

Behentrimonium Chloride: Toxic ammonia compound. Ingestion can be fatal. Concentrations as low as 0.1% can be irritating to the eyes and cause necrosis (tissue death) of mucus membranes.

Titanium, Zirconium, Benzalkonium, Bismuth, Antimony (*1), Barium (*2), Aluminum, Tin, Chromium, Benzene &amp PCBs: According to Dr. Hulda Reghi Clark, all of these ingredients are extremely dangerous. *1 - Breast cancer cases show Titanium, Zirconium, Benzalkonium, Bismuth, Antimony, and Aluminum accumulation in the breast. *2 -Barium is described in the Merck Index as a “caution”. ALL water or acid soluble Barium is POISONOUS! 10ed. P.139, 1983. Aluminium, found in the majority of deodorants and anti-perspirants. Results of WHO studies link regular use of aluminum based deodorants to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Mineral oil: This is a mixture of refined liquid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. It coats the skin like plastic wrap, which interferes with the skin's natural immune barrier and limits the skin's ability to breathe and release toxins. It also slows down skin function and cell development, resulting in premature ageing. Also known as paraffin, paraffin oil, paraffinum liquidum. Found in baby lotions, face creams, eyeshadows, eye brow pencils, sorbolene products and hair products.

Saccharin: used as a flavouring agent-this is a synthetic compound derived from coal tar. It has been shown to cause bladder cancer in animal studies. Research has shown that this chemical promotes the cancer-causing effects of other carcinogens.

Talc: Cosmetic talc is reportedly carcinogenic as it can be contaminated with asbestos fibres, which can be inhaled when applying makeup. (There is no safe level of asbestos exposure). Clear evidence exists that inhaling talc and using it in the genital area causes ovarian cancer and urinary tract disorders as well as respiratory distress in infants.

Coal tar: Often shows on labels as FD&ampC, or D&ampC colours, it is derived from petroleum and linked to asthma attacks, headaches, nausea, fatigue, nervousness and lack of concentration. Coal Tar contains petrochemicals such as benzene, xylene, toluene, and also heavy metal salts. Coal Tar is a known carcinogen increasing risks of skin lung,scrotum and skin cancer. Often found in Lipsticks, eyeshadows, face creams and perfumes.

BNPD: also known as 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol or Bronopol, Onyxide 500. An anti-microbial agent that releases formaldehyde and nitrates. Probably carcinogenic and mutagenic and can cause contact dermatitis. This chemical poses similar hazards for nitrosamine formation when combined with TEA or DEA, according to the SAFE Shopper's Bible.

“PEG”: ingredients, “-eth” ingredients, “-oxynol-” ingredients, Polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene, Polysorbate 60 &amp 80: According to the FDA cosmetics containing detergents, foaming agents, emulsifiers and certain solvents with all these names may be contaminated with 1,4 dioxane, which has been shown to produce cancer of the liver and nasal tumors in animal tests, as well as systemic cancer in skin painting tests. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 1,4-dioxane can be absorbed through the skin.

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA): one of the 10 most commonly used preservatives in cosmetics. Is listed as a carcinogen in U.S.A. and interferes with estrogen levels (a xenoestrogen) by blocking the estrogen receptors. It is also absorbed through the skin and stored in the body.

Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT): a preservative derived from Coal tar dye and petroleum. Banned in Sweden. Much more toxic than BHA. Is carcinogenic and teratogenic. Can cause dermatitis or rashes, asthma attacks and breathing problems, fatigue, liver stress and much more. It is absorbed through the skin.

Fluoride: Sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluoride. an ingredient commonly found in toothpaste, it is a poison to humans when ingested over a long period, as it accumulates in body tissues. “Fluoride a known carcinogen &amp teratogen, decreases fertility in women and is not approved by the FDA in the US. Fluoride has been removed from various animal feeds because it was causing birth defects in the offspring. The growing scientific consensus is that fluoride provides no benefit to the teeth but does cause damage to the bones and organs of the body.” P. Dingle. Cosmetic &amp Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty. 1999. pp17.

Triclosan: Widely used in toothpaste and mouthwash-is linked to the increase in antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs'. Drinking mouthwash containing alcohol and fluoride is a major source of poisoning among children.

Carageenan: is considered a possible human carcinogen by the WHO. Most toothpastes contain this chemical and it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.

What you DO want in your beauty products……

Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps the skin fight sun and pollution damage. May be labeled as d-alpha tocopherol (the natural form of vitamin E). A natural preservative.

Vitamin C: (ascorbic acid). A natural preservative and antioxidant that stimulates collagen and promotes elastin tissue growth.

Oatmeal: Soothes skin relieves itching and inflammation.

Lecithin: An extract from soya beans (organic suppliers reject the GM variety) used to moisturize the skin a natural humectant (attracts moisture to the skin).

Calendula: Assists skin regeneration and healing. Anti-inflammatory eases skin irritations.

Chamomile: A calming, gentle herb that is good for healing sensitive skin.

Witch Hazel: A herb with good astringent and toning properties.

Cucumber: The extract has a cooling and softening effect on hard, roughened skin.

Ginseng: Skin rejuvenator.

Aloe Vera: A gentle healing and anti-inflammatory herb.

Rosehip: A natural emollient that restores the skin's acid balance.

Horsetail: This herb is used for acne and eczema. It is also a good hair strengthener.

Lavender: A good healing agent for psoriasis and eczema.

Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5): A natural emollient which keeps skin moist.

Peppermint: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and good for regulating oily skin.

Lemongrass: Good for mild forms of acne and minor skin infections.

Vitamin A: Palmitate A natural preservative.

Xanthan Gum: A natural emulsifier.

Rosewater: A natural perfume.

Last words-It is best to be cautious!

The best way to ensure a product will do more good than harm is to know how to read the label. A good rule of thumb is to divide the ingredients into thirds: the top third makes up 90-95% of the product, the middle about 5-8%, and the bottom about 1-3%. And know what the ingredients are. A great source is, The Chemical Maze by Bill Statham.

Mae Zaydan, daughter of 2, mother of 1, sister of 5, friends of many and founder of http://www.organicbeautyworld.com Committed to nourishing the whole person inside and out with mother nature's ingredients. And empowering people through jargon free practical tools and techniques to BE creator's of their own lives.