If you want truly natural products, you have to be willing to search them out. Learn to read labels and refuse to settle for anything less than 100% natural. Below we've listed widely used yet harmful ingredients to avoid in your personal care products.
Aluminum Salts
Aluminum has always been considered a heavy metal similar to mercury (but with a much lower atomic weight) and yes, it's contained in most of the usual over-the-counter deodorants and antiperspirants in the form of aluminum chlorohydrate.
Deet
Classified as a pesticide by the EPA, DEET, or diethyl-meta-toluamide, can be found in most over-the-counter insect repellents. Media coverage documenting the potential health risks associated with its use have prompted retailers to look for alternative insect repellent formulas.
Paraben
Parabens are food and pharmaceutical preservatives used in a wide range of household products: cosmetics, shampoos, lotions, deodorants and antiperspirants. The most common parabens are methyl paraben, butyl paraben, ethyl paraben and propyl paraben. There are also commercial products such as Germall or Germaben that combine different forms of parabens in one product.
Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol (PG) is a petrochemical derivative used as a humectant and penetration enhancer in cosmetic products. Propylene Glycol is also the active ingredient in antifreeze solutions used in cars.
Triclosan
Triclosan is an antibacterial phenol and is found in toothpastes, acne creams, deodorants, lotions and hand soaps. Also, because of its antimicrobial and antiviral properties, it is incorporated into a wide range of consumer goods, including kitchen tiles, children's toys, cutting boards, toothbrush handles, hot tubs and athletic clothing.