The main function of skin is to keep the important stuff (vital organs) in and the unuseful stuff (harmful chemicals) out. The Stratum Corneum is the outermost layer of the skin and acts like a shield against most harmful substances. And for the majority of people it does an excelent job. But one thing to consider is that the Stratum Corneum is permeable. That means that whatever you put on your skin, healthful or healthless, has the potential to get into your body. So why are people still rubbing the equivalent of twinkies all over their bodies?

Consider the recent research that linked the cosmetic preservative Parben to breast cancer http://www.organicconsumers.org/bodycare/breastcancer090604.cfm. Thats pretty freaky stuff considering 1 in 3 women in the US diagnosed with cancer are diagnosed with breast cancer. The scientists said the most likely source of the parabens was from skin care products!

So if the bad stuff can permeate, can the good stuff permeate as well? The good news is the nutritious materials such as vitamins like E and C can permeate your skin. Once in the skin, these materials help to build your skin and fortify against pollutants that cause free radical damage. Do a little research. Find out what companies offer all natural skin care products with no Parabens. And when you go shopping, take some time and look at what you are about to smear all over yourself. Don’t just buy the least expensive or the most expensive product.

Consider what is really important to you–your health.