By Elyse Miller
News Channel 3

You put them in your hair, on your skin, and in your mouth. They make you feel pretty and smell good, but they may be bad for your health.

There are dozens of chemicals in make-up, cleansers, toothpaste, and hair dye. You may be surprised to learn the Food and Drug Administration doesn't strictly regulate them. In fact, European countries ban more than a thousand chemicals that the United States allows.

"Unless there is proven evidence that it's harmful, it may be used as a cosmetic," says Doctor of Pharmacy Timothy Tyler.

Take a look at a common, everyday item like shampoo. Look at the ingredients on the back and there's a long list of not-so-common words. These are ingredients that most of us can't even pronounce let alone know anything about.

"Makeup has to be labeled, but if it's in scientific terms, what does that mean?" says Tyler.

With all the products we pile on, our bodies absorb about five pounds of cosmetic chemicals every year. Doctors say small amounts over time are probably just fine. (Keyword being probably.) Is that a word you're comfortable when it comes to your health?

Take lead for example: if it's found in toys, there's a recall. However, it's in lipstick and other beauty products. This creates controversy but, since there is no proof of danger, it's allowed.

Many hair dyes contain coal tar.

"Coal tar can cause cancer," says Tyler. "Yet we can buy it, apply it to ourselves, and potentially absorb."

The risks vary for each person. Those who are more sensitive or have a history of health issues, may be at a higher risk. Doctors say the key to good health is to know your body and what your putting on it and in it.

For more information on the chemicals found in cosmetics, visit http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-toc.html.


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