In a world full of technology, machines and elements, the only thing protecting our bodies is our skin. Did you know we spend around 6 to 20 percent of our disposable income on products for our skin? Our skin is important to us and most of us will do anything to preserve its youth and longevity. But do we ever think about what we put on our skin every day?

Sure, many products claim to be safe or may even appear to be safe, but beyond the short term benefits of using the cosmetic, there are long term effects from daily absorption of its use. Creams that are suppose to treat dry skin may actually strip the skin of its natural oils, which are useful in preventing dryness. Some contain chemicals that seep through the skin and defat the skin.

So what's a better alternative? Natural cosmetics! Consider switching to completely natural products, which perform to the same standard as their non-natural counterparts. Whether you are a makeup artist or an esthetician that may use cosmetics every day or a consumer who applies the occasional moisturizer, we may not see any immediate effects from the current products we are using. Even though we are all dying for beautiful skin, keep in mind the healthy alternatives. We only have one skin, so care for it properly.

By Maggie Ng, Make-up Artist

Maggie Ng is a member of the Organic Make-Up Company's creative team, as well as the Account Representative. She is a professional make-up artist specializing in client, bridal, fashion, runway, period work and designs. Maggie currently is a make-up consultant for Cargo Cosmetics. She also freelances, concentrating on magazine photoshoots, model testings, runway, etc. Her latest work includes Career Insider Magazine and EST Magazine.