This, ladies and gentlemen, is why I make my own deodorant and wash my hair with baking soda and vinegar.  The incredible team behind “The Story of Stuff” just released a new video, “The Story of Cosmetics: The Ugly Truth of ‘Toxins In: Toxins Out.”

Perhaps more surprising than the fact that there are carcinogens in baby shampoo?  The average American woman uses twelve personal care products each day.  I use… 6?  Maybe.  And, of those 6, I make two.  I’m unwilling to give up fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash but I use Tom’s of Maine so I feel like maybe I’m in the clear(er).  Plus, making soap just does not appeal to me and Dr. Bronner just works so well, you know?

One thing I haven’t yet dealt with is the whole sunscreen thing…  On one hand, given that vitamin D deficiency is increasingly common, I’m tempted to just wear sunscreen if I’m going to be outside for more than 45 minutes.  On the other hand, since I got my tattoo I’m much more conscious of always putting sunscreen on it.

Anyway, after watching the video there are lots of ways to get involved.  I, for one, am going to take a look through the recipes on the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics’ website.  Also, I’m a huge fan of Angry Chicken’s Mailorder #11– a booklet of loads of person and earth-friendly personal care products.  Time to revisit that, I think.