How safe is your lipstick?

Yes, I know, you might not expect a blog about cosmetics on a feminist blog, however I do think it is important that we know which chemicals are in our makeup, shampoo and even toothpaste. Skin Deep, the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetic Safety Group has done extensive research on all types of beauty products, measuring links to cancer, developmental/reproductive toxicity, allergies, and more.

Each product can be found through the search bar, category (ex hair spray is under hair care), or brand. Each product is measured on a 0 (meaning harmless) to 10 (harmful) rating, and the ingredients of the products are listed on a separate page. I was certainly surprised to hear that my shampoo was a six, and that common deodorants are classified as 10s. Each category also offers alternatives, usually organic versions (like Tom's of Maine), which might be a little extreme for some of us, but as long as you get as close to 0 on the scale, any change will make a difference.