Have you ever stopped to read those long lists of ingredients on the labels of beauty products? It’s not easy (we know!) but it’s important. While many of the hard-to-pronounce synthetic ingredients are totally safe, there are a few potentially toxic ones. And, crazy but true fact, it’s still perfectly legal for companies to use those toxic ingredients in makeup, deodorant and other personal care products.

That means it’s up to us consumers to do our own research so we can avoid applying these toxins to our skin and hair. There’s some scientific debate about just how much of these chemicals is required to reach dangerous levels. But since so many personal care products are now created without toxins at all, why take the risk?

If you want a skin care routine that minimizes your exposure to potentially harmful or known toxic ingredients, read on to learn which ingredients to avoid in skin care, hair care and cosmetics.