Women have been using cosmetics for thousands of years, and in the beginning, everything was natural--it had to be! Women mixed coal dust with lard to make homemade mascara, for example. Over the years, however, corporations began manufacturing cosmetics on a larger scale, and chemicals were used to preserve the product for longer shelf life. Today, women are questioning the many chemicals used in their cosmetics and want safe natural cosmetics.

One very popular natural cosmetic is mineral makeup. Both dermatologists and consumers have been giving it rave reviews, and the product range includes foundation, blush, eyeshadow, and lipstick. The best mineral makeups are made from pure and natural minerals. Basically, they're made from different rocks and ores that are ground into fine powders, and they act as concealer, foundation, and powder in one step. Mineral makeups are typically lightweight, waterproof, and long-lasting, and they work for all skin types. It doesn't clog pores, and it is light reflective, which can help hide fine lines. Some research even shows that mineral makeup provides a natural sunblock for UVA and UVB rays.

Another recent concern has been about the number of harmful chemicals found in nail polish, including formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates. While there isn't a nail polish that's 100% natural, there are ones that provide safer alternatives. There are some nail polishes available with water-based formulas. These have water which is the main ingredient and use natural coloring, but they do still contain some plastic. Some contain a few solvents, while others do not. Without solvents, it takes a longer drying time to get a hard finish, but you also won't have the chemical smell. This is especially important for nail salon workers and for pregnant women.

What about your hair? While this isn't actually a cosmetic, it's part of your beauty routine, and again, you don't need chemicals to be beautiful. Check the label before you buy. Natural hair products are available that don't contain synthetic chemicals (especially sodium lauryl or laureth sulfates), parabens, or synthetic fragrances. They should contain natural ingredients, and they may be biodegradable. Even with natural products, the ingredient list can still be lengthy, but take the time to read through it and see what you're actually putting in your hair.

Finally, consider your lipstick. Some research indicates that we eat about four pounds of lipstick in our lifetimes. Have you ever considered what they're made from? There's even been concern lately that some lipsticks contain lead. To make lipstick, you need three basic ingredients: wax, oil and color. It doesn't need chemicals to be effective. There are many natural lipsticks available, usually using beeswax or plant wax. Natural oils like jojoba or chamomile provide spread-ability, while natural pigments provide color.