In tests done across the country, everyone had dozens of toxic chemicals in their blood. Many of these chemicals are from bodycare and cosmetic products. If you want to avoid them you need to read labels. Some of them are carcinogenic (cause cancer), neurotoxic (kill brain cells or alter brain chemistry), or they disrupt hormones and central nervous system function. Here are some of the worst ingredients you want to avoid.

1) The parabens “methyl, propyl, ethyl and butyl. They extend shelve life of products and are in most lotions, shampoos and conditioners. They are widely known to be toxic and many consumer groups are working to have them banned.
2) Synthetic fragrances-the only safe fragrance is an aromatherapy oil. Regular fragrances whether they be in perfumes, cosmetics, laundry detergents or whatever, contain a cocktail of neurotoxins, hormone disruptors and carcinogens.
3) Synthetic colors-they are labeled FD&C or D&C. They are proven carcinogens and are banned from food staples. A loophole exists in the law to allow them in candy, confectionary goods and bodycare products where they are absorbed transdermally.
4 )Diazolindinyl Urea and Imidazolidinyl Urea-these preservatives release formaldehyde.
5) Sodium Lauryl and Laureth Sulfate- a skin irritant that can cause a dandruff like condition or allergic reactions
6) Petrolatum (petroleum jelly)- this is a waste byproduct of the oil industry.
7) Propylene Glycol-this can come from a natural source like grain but is most often a petrochemical waste byproduct mainly used to make antifreeze for cars.
8) PVP/Va Copolymer-these chemicals can cause lung damage in some people. They are in many hairsprays and styling products.
Overall, look for products that contain substances you recognize and little or no unpronounceable ingredients especially those with numbers beside them. Good products contain natural preservatives like Vitamin A (beta carotenes), Vitamin C (water soluble ascorbic acid or fat soluble ascorbyl palmitate, Vitamin E (Tocopherols) or Citrus seed extracts. They contain either no fragrance or aromatherapy oils and only food sourced dyes.  Although health food stores are a great place to find safe products, even there you can find products with toxic ingredients. The bottom line is learn to read labels and be willing to search out good products.