How much do we really know about the chemicals we put on our skin and hair every day? What affect do they have on our health? We spoke with Dr. Paul Cohen MD, a dermatologist at the Rosedale Dermatology Centre in Toronto, to help us determine what to toss in our quest for good-for-you beauty.
Also found in: Everything from bubble bath to skin care products to antiperspirant.
Try: Look for products labelled fragrance-free. Companies like Clinique and Marcelle specialize in hypo-allergenic formulas. Dr. Cohen also suggests swapping your foundation for mineral makeup, such as Cover FX's Mineral FX Pure MineralFoundation, $37.
Also found in: Other hair products like conditioner and mousse, body wash and cleansers, and bath products like bubble bath, oil, and salts.
Try: Dr. Cohen recommends looking for products that explicitly state "paraben free", since parabens can be included under the label term fragrance. Try: Kiss My Face Miss Treated Shampoo Organic Hair Care, $8. Available at kissmyface.com, Shoppers Drug Mart and Whole Foods.
Also found in: Nail products, hair spray, baby powders, shampoos, and soaps.
Try: Because phthalates are often used as a fragrance ingredient, they might not always be listed on the label. Parents should opt for fragrance-free baby products, like Bug and Pickle Baby Butter, $16, (available at bugandpickle.com and retailers across Canada.
Also found in: Cuticle treatment and base/top coats.
Try: Toluene-free polishes from Sally Hansen (available at Shoppers Drug Mart) or Zoya (also available at select salons). If you're unsure about what's in a product, Dr. Cohen recommends checking the label carefully. "We don't need to get hysterical, but people should be cautious about what they use [on]."
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