Our skin is the largest organ of the body. It is a semi-permeable barrier that releases perspiration, oils and toxins from the body but also absorbs much of what we put on it. Water and water soluble substances are excluded, as well as most pathogens (bacteria, molds and fungi). Cell membranes are made mainly of phospholipids (oils), so oil based chemicals readily pass through unless the molecular weight is too large. It is the liver's task to break down these foreign substances for transport out of the body via the kidneys. Some molecules cannot be broken down or can only be partially broken down into a form that can be eliminated. If the body cannot eliminate them, these substances are stored away in the fat cells and accumulate over time. Some of these chemicals are toxic, some mimic and act as hormones or hormone blockers (endocrine disruptors), and some can damage DNA and cause cancer.

Do you know what hazardous chemicals are in your personal care products? Read the label of your shampoo and cream rinse, skin/body creams, cosmetics, deodorant, toothpaste, shaving cream, etc. You will find a myriad of harmful, and sometimes toxic, chemical-sensitizing, and cancer causing ingredients.

Think you are safe by using 'natural' or 'organic' products? Natural can mean almost anything. Even petrochemicals (derived from oil), were once plants and trees millions of years ago. Petrochemicals are among the most allergic, reactive, cancer-causing substances in our environment. Don't be lulled into complacency by these common advertising misnomers. Read the label and be informed.

Check out: www.preventcancer.com and also Ruth Winter, MS, author of A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients. Sodium Laurel Sulfate or Laureth Sulfate--a detergent, or wetting agent, and emulsifier. FDA lists it as safe for cosmetic formulations designed for brief use followed by thorough rinsing off from skin. Ethoxylated alcohols, polysorbates and laureths are all commonly contaminated with 1.4 dioxane (agent orange), a potent carcinogen.

Propylene Glycol contains PEG contamination with dioxane and can cause contact dermatitis. Sorbic acid (sorbate)--was once isolated from Mountain Ash tree, is now chemically synthesized and is a toxic preservative. Commonly used as a coating on fresh fruits and vegetables. A CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) expert panel recommends that they should only be used in rinse-off products and that they should not be used with nitrosating agents, the combination makes nitrosamines-potent cancer causing agents.

Diazolydinyl urea (Germall II) pesticide and antiseptic, causes contact dermatitis and is a sensitizer- may release formaldehyde (embalming fluid), which is a potent neurotoxin and carcinogen. Isoparaffin, mineral oil, petrolatum are all petrochemicals (clogs pores) and interferes with natural hormone activity. Phenoxyethanol--bactericide, insect repellent and topical antiseptic. A derivative of phenol which affects the nerves and blood vessels, causing spasms. Is My Family Chemically Healthy?

Peaceful Scents only uses cold or expeller pressed oils.

There is a direct link between what we eat and our level of health. There is no substitute for a healthy diet. Pure water and organic foods, supplemented with vitamins and herbs, when coupled with regular exercise and a balanced lifestyle, has the greatest potential of maintaining and improving health and preventing disease. Reducing one's exposure to toxic and carcinogenic chemicals (which includes many pharmaceutical drugs), contributes to maintaining health and quality of life.

A person can develop an allergic reaction to anything at any time, even if you have used a product before and did not have a reaction. We suggest that you do a patch test on your inner arm or thigh with any product that you have not used before. If you experience redness, blistering, or swelling, discontinue use. If you experience breathing difficulties, seek medical attention immediately.