Aubrey Hampton's newest book may very well be the definitive work on natural and synthetic ingredients in cosmetics. In a clear and precise language, Hampton explores an extensive list of ingredients—both natural and synthetic—commonly used in the cosmetics industry and discusses their effect on both the body and the environment. He walks the reader through the literal mine field of esoteric chemicals and their use in hair and skin care formulations, providing the reader with useful information on the chemical composition, history and toxicology of many compounds, along with their derivation and usage.

He also furnishes clear and concise explanations of the arcane terminology used in chemistry and the cosmetics industry. The book's detailed chart on the use of herbs is one of the most complete I have ever read, covering their derivation, properties and usage, with 139 herbs represented.

Perhaps the most valuable section of the book is Hampton's informative tour through the labels of cosmetic products. He instructs the reader on how to read a label, what to look for and what to avoid, clearly defining the terms that are used along the way.

As a chemist and chemical engineer who has extensive product development experience in the food, drug and cosmetic field, I am particularly impressed by Hampton's work on non-synthetic antimicrobial preservatives. It has been estimated that there are 10 pounds of microbes for every one pound of man on this earth, and keeping their destructive presence out of products is a challenge. Most preservatives are not without toxicity, and Hampton explains how to use natural and safer compounds to achieve a stable product.

What's in Your Cosmetics? is a major contribution to an important subject.