The Difference Between Antiperspirants and Deodorants
While many people use the terms antiperspirant and deodorant interchangeably, they are actually quite different. Antiperspirants work by stopping perspiration from happening in the first place. On the other hand, deodorants allow you to sweat but prevent odor by killing the bacteria that cause it. From a natural standpoint, using deodorants makes more sense since it aligns better with our body’s processes.
Naturally, nobody wants to smell bad or feel sweaty, but the reality is that many personal care products designed to tackle these issues contain aluminum as an active ingredient. Aluminum is known to be a neurotoxin, which raises health concerns. Therefore, aluminum-free deodorants are becoming a popular and widely available alternative.
The Dangers of Using Products Containing Aluminum
Deodorants often contain aluminum and synthetic fragrances, both of which can cause problems for many people. If you experience irritation under your arms, it might be an allergic reaction to aluminum, which is toxic to the body. Aluminum has been linked to various health issues, including breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, bone disorders, and kidney concerns.
What to Look for in an Aluminum-Free Deodorant
When choosing an aluminum-free deodorant, it’s essential to look for products made with essential oils and all-natural ingredients. However, just being aluminum-free isn’t enough. According to the Environmental Working Group, some aluminum-free deodorants still pose risks as they may contain chemicals like triclosan and propylene glycol. Triclosan is a significant endocrine disruptor, even more concerning than propylene glycol, so it’s best to avoid it. This article also includes a recipe for making your own deodorant using natural ingredients like baking soda and coconut oil.
The Take Home
With new evidence and reports of adverse reactions constantly emerging, it’s hard to ignore the potential dangers of many health and beauty products on the market. Ultimately, it’s up to each of us to take the initiative and actively seek out healthier alternatives.
