Toxic Deodorants: Natural and Effective Alternatives

Deodorants might be considered as one of the most necessary beauty products on the market. No one wants to smell bad or be deemed as “the smelly one.” But because they are used on a daily basis, sometimes multiple times a day, you should be aware that they could be harming your health. Most cosmetics are applied and then either rinsed off or taken off at the end of the day, but deodorant is applied and kept on for the entirety of the day and night. This causes for the chemicals in the deodorant to accumulate in your underarm and even in the upper breast area and because the skin in this area is a bit sensitive, it will absorb the abundance of chemicals it has been exposed to over time.

The main chemicals to be aware of in your deodorant are:

Aluminum compounds – Aluminum zirconium and aluminum chlorohydrate work by blocking pores that release sweat and can create problems with the ability of estrogen receptors to process the hormone.

Propylene glycol – Provokes irritation in the skin and acts as a penetration enhancer for other chemicals.

Triclosan – An antibacterial agent that when paired with tap water, creates chloroform gas which is a potential carcinogen.

Steareths – A result of a “cheap” process that is to make very harsh chemicals and ingredients become milder. This process also produces carcinogenic toxins as well.

Some safe alternatives to toxin-filled deodorants are:

Mineral salts – Ammonium or potassium alum

Clay and powders – Clay minerals such as kaolin and bentonite or natural powders such as cornstarch or arrowroot are used to absorb moisture.

Astringents – Witch hazel, alcohol, and sage, used in combination with essential oils that have an antibacterial property.

If you are planning on switching to a more natural substance rather than your usual deodorant, be expectant of an “aromatic” transition. Your underarms are adjusting and ridding themselves of dead skin cells as well as chemical residue, and fluid build-up.

If you want to take an easier route, but still try a non-toxic deodorant here are six you can buy:

1. Dr. Hauschka Deodorant Fresh
Witch hazel and sage extracts absorb odor without clogging pores, and essential oils provide a light citrus scent for all-day freshness.(www.drhauschka.com)

2. Erbaviva Jasmine Grapefruit Organic Deodorant
Essential oils of jasmine, grapefruit, ginger, cedarwood, cypress, sage, and lemon give this spray a subtle, sweet scent. (www.erbaviva.com)

3. Origins Totally Pure Deodorant
Organic white willow bark and lavender-infused alcohol control odor. The spice-scented blend is USDA certified organic. (www.origins.com)

4. Bubble and Bee Organic Pit Putty
Arrowroot powder absorbs moisture while organic lemon and clove oils work to leave the skin smelling fresh. (www.bubbleandbee.com)

5. Terressentials Lavender Fresh Deodorant
The lavender formula helps neutralize odors—even the sulfur compounds that can result from eating garlic. (www.terressentials.com)

6. Kiss My Face Liquid Rock Roll-On Deodorant
This liquefied crystal deodorant rolls on easily and neutralizes body odors without covering them up with other scents. (www.kissmyfacewebstore.com)