Countless FD&C color pigments initiate skin sensitivity and irritation. The harmful aspects of utilizing artificial colors are extensive. As far as humans are concerned, these chemicals are suspected carcinogens. FOUND IN: Shampoos, toothpastes, body washes, cleansers, baby products, wipes, hand washes, deodorants, lotions, creams, etc.

WHAT IS IT? Grab just about any bottle of shampoo, your tube of toothpaste or package of baby wipes and you’ll notice a common trend. FD&C color pigments are commonly found on shelves everywhere. These synthetic colors are made from coal tar, which should be reason enough to avoid them.

HEALTH RISK: Don’t be fooled by the seemingly harmless acronym for “Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act,” which mandated the certification of select color additives. Almost all FD&C pigments are carcinogenic. The coal tar deposits the toxins from heavy metal salts directly onto skin, causing irritation and sensitivity. And that is the least extreme of reactions: Certain colors can cause depletion of oxygen in the body. Animal studies have shown almost all of them to be carcinogenic.

HOW TO AVOID IT: Keep an eye out for FD&C in all cosmetics and personal care products. Also, avoid them in food and beverage products.