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Have you ever wonder exactly how something painted or brushed on your face can actually stay in place for up to 12 hours as advertisers claim? What exactly is in that ruby red lipstick that stays on through that cookie you had for a snack, not to mention the cheeseburger- err.. I mean, salad you had for lunch?

Cosmetics and the chemicals that go into them are not adequately regulated. As a matter of fact, the only time the United States Food and Drug Administration gets involved is when consumers complain of adverse reactions. The burden lies on the manufacturer to make sure their products are safe. Although some states in the U.S. and the European Union are taking steps to change this, the question still remains- what's really in that stuff?

Di-butyl phthalate, a common ingredient in nail polish, is considered a reproductive toxin by the National Toxicology Program's Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction. PABA, found in some lip balms, body washes and shampoos, has been linked to cancer and other disorders along with BHA, Formaldehyde, and Propylene Glycol. Then there is that all encompassing ingredient "fragrance"; what kind of chemicals are used to make that pleasant odor?

Would you ever consider topping your meal with a little Formaldehyde? Of course not, and your skin absorbs these products into your body just like the food you eat. The safest solution is to stick to organic or all-natural products; but unfortunately, it's not that simple. Cosmetic manufacturers aren't regulated on the use of terms such as "hypoallergenic", "all-natural" or even "organic." So if you truly want to buy green you have to buy smart:

Watch the packaging. Organic makeup that comes wrapped in tons of plastic isn't very green. Keep an eye out for manufacturers that are simply taking advantage of the "green" trend.

Read the ingredients. It may be hard to find on smaller items, but grab a magnifying glass if necessary. If you can't pronounce or have never heard of an ingredient- don't buy it.

Look for a USDA Organic seal. Look for products certified by the USDA- this seal means the product meet their strict requirements for "organic" classification.

Make you Own. All-natural homemade lotions, soaps, and even makeup are simple to make and can save money. Do what you great-great grandmother did and get creative.

Learn more about this author, Mary Norman.
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