According to Natural News.com “the primary ingredient used in most antiperspirants is aluminum. Aluminum is a metal, which is used in antiperspirants to help block the sweat from escaping the pores. Aluminum has been linked to breast cancer in women and has also been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Numerous studies have demonstrated a connection between rising rates of prostate cancer in men and female breast cancer. But the FDA hasn't said that it will label it as a carcinogen. They continue to take the "wait and see" stance until more conclusive research is published.
Another group of artificial preservatives frequently present in deodorants is called parabens. Actually, a startling number of our body care products contain parabens. The CDC found that all 100 human urine specimens, selected at random, contained parabens. This illustrates how quickly chemicals applied to our skin absorb into our bodies.
The main worry is that these chemicals will enter our bodies and upset our delicate hormonal balance. This may result in early childhood puberty and a higher chance of hormone-related cancers. Exposure to parabens has also been connected to organ toxicity and birth defects.
Another common ingredient found in deodorants and antiperspirants is propylene glycol. Because of its smooth consistency, this petroleum-based substance is used to soften cosmetic products. It's an inexpensive method of improving skin care products' application to the skin.
The argument that propylene glycol is safe in small amounts has been questioned by consumer safety advocates. In large quantities, studies have shown that it can cause damage to the central nervous system, liver and heart.
This chemical is even found in many of the processed foods we eat today. Logical thought follows that decreasing our exposure to propylene glycol is the prudent thing to do. It is for this reason that using skin care products that are propylene glycol free is becoming popular in health conscious circles.
Phthalates are another class of chemicals that are often used in deodorants and antiperspirants that you may want to avoid. Phthalates are used in cosmetics, synthetic fragrances, plastics, body care products and medical goods. They help to dissolve other ingredients and to create a better consistency.
The problem with phthalates is that they have been linked to a variety of health issues. High phthalate blood and urine levels in women of child bearing age have been linked to a higher risk of birth defects. This suggests that phthalates may disrupt hormone receptors as well as increase the likelihood of cell mutation.
Triclosan is another common ingredient included in commercial deodorants. It is utilized as the odor killing part of antiperspirants for its anti-bacterial properties. It is also commonly used in antibacterial soaps, hand wipes and gels.
Triclosan is actually classified as a pesticide by the FDA. It is also classified as a probable carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency. This classification has prompted some companies to remove it from their products. However, it still can be found as an ingredient in some formulas.
Sweet mother of god, it’s a good thing I don’t use store bought deodorant or antiperspirants and you shouldn’t either! Make your own this recipe is easy to make, inexpensive and works just as good (or better than) commercial brands.
Homemade Deodorant
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
- essential oils (optional, but you could use tea tree oil, sweet orange, cinnamon, etc.)
Directions:
1. Mix baking soda and arrowroot powder in a bowl.
2. Add coconut oil and use a fork to blend into the dry ingredients.
3. Add 5-10 drops of your chosen essential oil (I used tea tree oil).
4. Add more coconut oil or baking soda to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Now you’re all-natural deodorant!
6. To apply, use your fingers to scoop out a pea-size amount of the deodorant and massage it into your armpits daily or as needed. Allow a minute or two for the deodorant to set before getting dressed.
*Remember, this is deodorant, not antiperspirant. It will not stop you from sweating, but you won’t smell bad!
Homemade deodorant try it today!