Recently, I read the FDA approved a new product for injections to help reduce severe wrinkling and folds within the skin. The Wall Street Journal quoted the company stating that the injected treatment is made from “naturally sourced collagen.” The article went on to report that the product is made…get this!...using tendons harvested from pigs.

Call me chicken; I just could not go under the knife or get injected with any kind of animal part to rid myself of sagging skin or plump up the wrinkles traversing across my face. Instead, I want peace, love, natural…anti aging natural skin care products. That work effectively; are actually safe and good for my skin. Is that too big a wish?

Excuse me, but I do NOT want the tendons of pigs injected into my face, thank you very much.

For those who would rather go the more natural route with anti aging natural skin care products be alert! The word ‘natural’ on labels, however, needs to be closely scrutinized when shopping for products that will provide the best anti aging skin care.

There’s a gaping hole in the industry as to what claims can be made in the marketing and manufacturing of ‘natural’ skin care. Reading the ingredients and knowing what they are will make for a more informed purchase.

Following is a short list of ingredients you want to make sure are NOT included in your search for effective and safe anti aging natural skin care products. These are dangerous ingredients known to be toxic or cancer causing and are routinely found in common skin care products:

DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine), and TEA (triethanolamine): Often used in skincare products to adjust the pH. TEA causes allergic reactions including eye problems, dryness of hair and skin, and could be toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time. These chemicals are already restricted in Europe due to known carcinogenic effects.

Nitrosamines: Can be formed in skincare products when amines (such as DEA, MEA or TEA) are combined with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (such as bronopol or quaternium-15). Nitrosamines are known to be carcinogenic.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG): Widely used as an emulsifier and humectant. Suspected of being carcinogenic.

Triclosan: An anti-bacterial agent, widely used in skincare products (also used in weed killers). There is evidence to suggest triclosan may contribute to creating strains of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, due to its wide use in skincare products.

This is a start. Next time you are ready to make a purchase for anti aging natural skin care products, write down those ingredients and stuff the piece of paper into your purse. Then compare to what is listed on the label of any product you consider. You will do a much better job of implementing the best anti aging skin care without including these harmful chemicals.

Heather Fields is a researcher and proponent of companies and organizations diligently working to educate consumers regarding product ingredients. For more information on natural skin care products,Visit Her Website and the links therein.