Ever wondered what is in deodorant and antiperspirant? How does it work?
Well, antiperspirants contain aluminum or zirconium which closes our pores and slows the perspiration. Currently there is no definitive link between aluminum and any health problems. However, a link to breast cancer has been debated and high concentrations of aluminum have been found in the brain tissue of Alzheimer's patients.
Deodorants simply mask odor. They contain some chemicals that should be avoided such as formaldehyde and propylene glycol. The spray on versions use propellants such as butane and propane which are not exactly the best things to be inhaling.
There are "natural" deodorants available. As with anything else read the label to be sure. They don't work the same on everybody so be prepared to change brands and versions until you find one that works for you. I went through four different ones before I found one that worked well. They are not as strong as the regular ones so if you sweat a lot or feel that you need one between work and other activities carry an extra one with you.
7 comments:
Hello, I wouldn't be surprised if you are aware of many types of alternate deodorants but in any case here is the brand I use. Mayber you'll find it interseting.
http://www.natures-gate.com/shop/showCatalog.asp?category=210
Thanks for the post.
In my environment/personal safety themed boutique I sell (as well as use)a deodorant stone from European Soaps. It acts naturally to inhibit the growth of odor causing bacteria. You won't have a "pretty" perfume smell, but there is no odor and your sweat glands are allowed to function as they should without being stopped up. I am mentioning your blog on mine as a link for more environment info. Thanks for all the research you do and the helpful information that you provide!
Who needs definitive links to clarify correlation when, " . . .NO link between aluminum and any health problems; however, a link to breast cancer has been debated & high concentrations of aluminum have been found in the brain tissue of Alzheimer's patients"-- that sounds like 'proof' to me so why does it still exist in something people use every day ?
You clarified the simple fact of dangerous material by stating the size of pores under the arms and describing the effects on the skin. For me, being a sensitive-skinned victim of society, I must be very selective in the brands I use.
I wonder if Arm n Hammer is equally responsible for allowing aluminum in their deodorants and anti-perspirants ?
Natures Gate works good, I have used it in the past. I do find it a bit sticky, applying a small amount of baking soda to the area after helps with that.
In my opinion, there is a definite link with chemicals in products and illnesses. However, it will be a long time before any one actually admits this.
Thanks for all your comments, much appreciated! Keep them coming.
I have to agree with your post. My family stopped using regular deodorants years ago. We use the crystal rock type deodorants. My husband also uses arrowroot in addition to the rock. My one son likes a product from Jason.
I also stopped using regular baking powder too since it has aluminium in it and only use a health store brand. It does not have aluminium in it. (Rumford and Featherweight. I use Featherweight because it is sodium free and gluten free.)
I am so glad you are spreading the news about how toxic our world is. When I built a couple of years ago my focus was nontoxic building products. Everyone shook their heads at me being so skeptical. Keep up the good work here! Anna www.green-talk.com
Thanks for this post on such an important topic! I've been preaching to my friends for years about this - and I've tried everything out there, and the best deodorant that keeps me odor free is by Lush - the witch hazel deodorant. it comes in a block, and takes some getting used to, but I could live without it!
Best,
Paula
Hello, I'm quoting your post here in my blog at omgirlsguide.com, thank you very much!
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