A University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health study into the skin absorption rates of contaminants in public drinking water found that the skin absorbed an average of 64% of the total contaminant dosage. Another study found the face to be 2-6x more permeable than broad body surfaces, and underarms and genitalia to be even more permeable...

The US has seen reports from The Environmental Working Group (EWG) on which ingredients to avoid in cosmetics. Many Canadians are also concerned with the safety of their cosmetic and personal care products and are working to do something about it.

The David Suzuki Foundation — an advocacy group of scientific and policy experts working with government, businesses, and individuals to protect our environment and promote social change—conducted an online survey inviting Canadians to take a closer look at commonly used personal care products. Commonly used products encompass shampoo, soaps, cosmetics and...

Traditionally, October has been celebrated as Celiac Disease Awareness Month in the United States. While awareness activities also widely take place in May, we think it's as important a time as ever to talk about the benefits of an all natural routine for those with Celiac Disease and gluten sensitivities.

People afflicted with Celiac Disease and those with wheat germ allergies need to be careful not just of what they eat, but also what they put on their skin. While skin care products containing gluten do not affect all people with Celiac Disease, it is important that all Celiacs avoid using such products on their lips or around their mouth to avoid ingestion. And by using personal care products free of gluten, consumers with sensitivity to wheat can eliminate any risk.

There are a number of ingredients very common in personal care products that we recommend you avoid. These are substances that are known irritants, allergens, carcinogens, endocrine disruptors or otherwise harmful to humans.

We've put together an Ingredient Watch list of substances to avoid. The top ten ingredients are listed below:

Lavera is using alcohol in small amounts in Creams and in Face toners. Percentages are based on recommendations from dermatologists. Irritation, dryness or problems are not to be expected.

Lavera's 2012 cosmetic line is talc-free—using rice powder as a more natural alternative. Talc used in Lavera-legacy cosmetics (discount, clearance sections) is asbestos free.

Carmine is an aluminum and calcium salt of carminic acid. It is one of the most ancient natural dyes, derived from the shells of the female insect Coccus Cacti. It is commonly used to achieve bright reds and pinks in lipsticks. Coal tar based colorants, the synthetic alternatives to Carmine, can irritate lips, dry lips out and thus are very problematic.