Deodorant: it is not a particularly glamourous product, but it is important to all of us. Conventional deodorant contains antiperspirant. We have all appreciated this feature over the years, but have we ever wondered what it is that prevents us from perspiring (a necessary bodily function for cooling and detoxification)?
Antiperspirant is made of aluminum salts. On the label these are listed as aluminum chloride, aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum hydroxybromide, and aluminum zirconium. Aluminum salts seal sweat glands and kill stinky bacteria. If they weren’t so dangerous, they would be a godsend.
Aluminum is a heavy metal, a non-essential metal. It contributes to our toxic body burden. We don’t want this stuff floating around in our system. Aluminum is a known neurotoxin. There is also an ongoing debate on some scientists’ findings that aluminum is linked to the rise in breast cancer. One study found it in human breast tissue. Our breasts are pretty darn close to our armpits, no? Have you ever tried to shave your underarms and your deodorant comes off on your razor – even after you’ve scrubbed with soap and water? Yes, I thought so.
Conventional deodorants with antiperspirant also contain synthetic fragrance (read: phthalates), parabens, and triclosan (all known endocrine disruptors). Many contain dimethicone, talc, and propylene glycol. Ladies, we are smearing this stuff – that doesn’t wash off very easily – right next to our precious breasts!
I know you really don’t want to swap out your deodorant stick. You will have to try a few alternatives before you find the one that is right for you. While it is not a fun experiment, your health is worth this small sacrifice.
And here are the alternatives:
NATURALLY FRESH DEODORANT CRYSTAL ROLL-ON
Naturally Fresh also makes the “crystal” deodorant, but you have to wet it every time you apply and I don’t think it glides on very easily. My friend, Dorsey, recommended this brand, and it works quite well. It is pure liquid, so you have to let it dry for a second before you get dressed. The one downside is that it contains phenoxyethanol. However, it is the last ingredient listed, meaning it is the least significant. Also, make sure you get the fragrance-free version. Not perfect, but it is probably much better than what you are currently using. Cost: about $4. Purchase it at Whole Foods or almost any drugstore.
LA VANILA THE HEALTHY DEODORANT
Some consider this the answer to our prayers. Some say it’s not. You will just have to try it for yourself and see. La Vanila glides on easily and smells good. Cost: about $18. Purchase it here.
Ingredients: Aloe barbadensis leaf juice (Aloe juice, water/aqua), Propanediol (Corn derived), Zea mays (Corn) starch, Sodium stearate (Coconut derived), Silica, Carrageenan (Seaweed derived), Stearyl behenate (Coconut derived), Citrus medica limonum (Lemon peel oil), Inulin (Artichoke derived), Saccharomyces ferment, Alpha-Glucan oligosaccharide (Sugar derived), Yeast beta glucan, Lonicera caprifolium (Honeysuckle) flower extract, Usnea barbata (Lichen) extract, Valeriana officinalis root extract (Valerian), Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal) extract, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea tree) flower/leaf/stem extract, Lycium barbarum fruit extract (Goji berry), Botanical fragrance blend.NOURISH ORGANIC DEODORANT
Nourish works pretty well. It employs organic corn starch and other plant enzymes to keep dry and smelling fresh. Cost: about $8. Purchase it here.
*Pure Unscented does not contain any fragrance
Does anyone have any recommendations? Have you found the holy grail of natural deodorant? Please let us know!
I’ve spent almost a decade immersed in the world of green beauty and nontoxic living. I want to help you find everything from a killer lipstick to a nontoxic laundry detergent, and beyond. Subscribe to a healthier lifestyle with me.
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