Many lotions, soaps and cosmetics contain phthalates and other chemicals known to be dangerous to human health. You may want to consider a complete overhaul of your personal care routine (we provide eight steps to do this) but at the very least, consider looking at some labels and tossing some of your most frequently used items if they contain some of the chemicals known to be associated with health problems.

For example, if a lotion or shampoo contains the word “paraben” (generally preceded by methyl-, ethyl-, butyl-, or propyl) consider tossing it. This stuff is often used to prevent clumping or bacteria growth but it is also a known endocrine disruptor and as such can mimic the bodies own hormones. Avoiding these chemicals can be especially important for children and for women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

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