Did you know that whatever you put on your skin gets absorbed in about 26 seconds and goes straight into your bloodstream? Our skin is our biggest organ, and unlike other organs inside us, it doesn't have the same defenses against potentially risky substances. Here are some simple things to know about your skin and how it reacts to the products you use, so you can make smarter choices.

In a world where we’re increasingly conscious of what we put in and on our bodies, the ingredients in our everyday products often remain shrouded in mystery. While brands market their items as safe and effective, many contain substances that raise eyebrows—or worse, alarms.