With reports abounding that the average woman absorbs around 5lb of chemicals through her skin every year, the natural skincare option is becoming increasingly tempting.

Although none of the synthetic chemicals used in cosmetics and toiletries have been proven to be harmful in such small quantities, each woman should be able to make an informed choice about what they want their skin to absorb. So, if you want to say no to paraben preservatives and harsh detergents, read on...

What to look out for:

Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is a detergent used for stripping grease from car engines and bathroom floors. It's also found in many beauty products. SLS has been linked to such problems as skin irritation, diarrhoea and breathing problems, and high levels may increase your risk of cancer. While the amount used in toiletries is minimal, the benefits are negligible, so if you can avoid it, do.

Parabens (anything starting with methyl, propyl, butyl or ethyl) are preservatives used in many everyday toiletries. They mimic oestrogen, so may lead to a higher risk of breast cancer, although that has not been scientifically proven.

Phthalates also mimic oestrogen and are often found in hair spray, nail varnish and perfumes. They are difficult to avoid, as they are not generally found on ingredients lists.

So what's the alternative?

Where once women would have to resort to unperfumed gloop that had little actual effect, thankfully these days there are plenty of real alternatives to chemical packed beauty products. What's more, natural ranges are generally super ethical, organic and as green as they come. Whatever your price range, there's a natural beauty range to suit:

Premium

The Nude skincare range is a personal favourite of mine. Basically, it offers all the ingredients you would expect in a quality skincare range, but it sources them from natural, ethical sources.

So you still get your peptides, probiotics, CoQ10 and other antioxidants, just without any of the synthetic nasties. Moisturisers are priced from £46, but if you don't want to splash out straight away, try the Selection Box at £18, which contains nine miniature versions of their bestsellers. The whole range is available from Harvey Nichols.

Mid-range

The Figs & Rouge range is not only natural, vegan, and organic, the packaging also happens to be pretty fab in my opinion. For a spot of pampering, try the Rambling Rose Bath Soak for £8.95, which is super moisturising. The Luxury Garden Gift Set is also perfect for Christmas. At £30 it contains the Marigold & Mandarin Body Lotion and the Juniper Berry Shower Wash, along with a 50 hour candle and a pack of seeds! What's more you can shop online at www.love-eco.co.uk

Bargain

It is more expensive to use natural ingredients, rather than synthetic ones, especially when they're organic, and that expense tends to be passed on to the buyer.

However, there are still bargains to be had. Lavera products are priced from just £2.25 and the range includes pretty much everything you could need. Lipstick is big for winter, and Lavera's Trend Sensitive Lipstick at £8.95 is available in 14 different colours. Containing organic jojoba and almond, these lipsticks are super moisturising. Take a look at www.soorganic.com