While you look through this list, it is worth checking the ingredients of the products you currently use - it may shock you (it did us!).

DEA, MEA, TEA: known to cause allergic reactions, irritate the eyes and dry the hair and the skin.

Petrolatum: also known as liquid Vaseline, paraffinum liquidum and baby oil. Strips the natural oils from the skin causing chapping, dryness and premature ageing. Prevents elimination of toxins.

Sodium laurel sulphate (SLS): strong detergent found in shampoos, hair conditioners, toothpastes and body washes, which can cause eye irritation, skin rashes and hair loss.

Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl parabens: food grade preservatives used to extend a product's shelf life and inhibit microbial growth. Considered highly toxic and have been found in cancer tumors. Can cause rashes and other allergic reactions.

Fragrance (Parfum): usually petroleum based. Can cause headaches, dizziness, rashes, respiratory problems, skin irritation and multiple chemical sensitivity.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): is a caustic, used to dissolve grease. It is found in most skin cleansers as well as oven cleaners.

Propylene Glycol: is a wetting agent and solvent used in hair care products, deodorants and after shave. It is also one of the main ingredients in Anti-Freeze and brake fluid.

Alcohol or isopropyl: A poisonous solvent found in colour rinses, body rubs, hand lotions, after shave lotions and fragrances. Dries skin and hair, creating cracks and fissures in the skin.

Shea Butter and Bee's Wax: which are heavy and often drag the skin; they can block the pores stopping vital oxygen reaching the cells.

Animal Derived Ingredients or Ingredients Tested on Animals: Not necessary.

"The Women's Environment Network (WEN) is concerned that women are being exposed o small doses of chemicals that can build up in the body and disrupt hormones, they affect immune or nervous systems, and trigger cancer, allergies or other health problems. It is also concerned that chemicals which end up in our water supply pollute the environment and harm wildlife." Telegraph 2003

Now look at what we DO use and why?