Cosmetics: Cancer, Infertility, and More

Cosmetics are put on the body to cleanse it, make it attractive, or change its appearance. Unlike drugs, which are used to treat or prevent disease in the body, cosmetics are not supposed to change or affect the body's structure or functions. However, author Stacy Malkan reveals that the everyday products we put in our hair and on our skin may be responsible for cancer, infertility, and more.

Carcinogens in cosmetics? Petrochemicals in perfume? If only this were an urban legend. Unfortunately, it's a toxic reality, and it's showing up in our bodies.

In 2004, scientists found pesticides in the blood of newborn babies. A year later, researchers discovered perchlorate, a component of rocket fuel, in human breast milk. Today, people are testing positive for a litany of hazardous substances from flame retardants to phthalates to lead.

In her new book, Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry, Stacy Malkan exposes the toxic chemicals that lurk, often unlabeled, in the personal care products that millions of American women, men and children use every day. Read more