The largest organ of our body is our skin, a flexible tissue that holds our bones, organs and fluids together. The outer most layer, called the Stratum Corneum acts as the primary barrier to many chemicals.  Due to the fact that the Stratum Corneum is semi-permeable and that pores, (about 400 million of them) act as pathway to our core, there is much attention on external toxins that may be absorbed into our bodies.  So the skin, while it may act like a barrier to some things, acts like a sponge to others.

• Toxic elements that are readily absorbed in the body through our environment:
   
• Dioxins which come mostly from industrial processing and involves chlorine, which is the most carcinogenic of any toxin, and may be found in pesticides, manufacturing, and water.  Taking a shower or bath in chlorinated water allows your skin to drink in massive amounts of chlorine daily.
   
• Heavy Metals such as lead, copper, mercury aluminum and tin which are found in tooth fillings, paint, and dyes. About 4000 tons of lead is emitted in the USA a year.  It is absorbed in to our system via the air, paint, dirt, plumbing and old toys. Heavy metals target the immune system and cause issues with the brain and Nervous system.  www.cehca.org for info on heavy metals.
   
• Formaldehyde used as an additive to perfumes, clothing, lotions and sprays are easily absorbed and can build up causing extreme health damage as well.
   
• Parabens are found in many cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.  And show up in breast cancer tissue.
   
• Phthalates are also found in cosmetics, personal care products, toys, bottles, and more.  According to Dr. Mercola, some women absorb up to 5 lbs of make-up chemicals a year. This synthetic is banned in Europe, but not in the USA.  (Europe has banned 1000 of this type of additive, the USA has banned 8)
   
• PDBE’s (Polybrominated Diphenyl Esters) are a flame-retardant and can be found in furniture, curtains, mattresses, computers/television monitors, cell phones and clothing.  This can be toxic and has been known to cause issues with the thyroid function, endocrine and neurological systems.  They can be found anywhere from common house dust to farm-raised fish.  Also banned in Europe.