Why opt for a Natural Deodorant?

In the same way we review and adapt our diets to ensure a healthy lifestyle, we should be checking the products we use on our skin. After decades of research the potential health risks associated with the frequent use of ingredients such as aluminium and parabens on skin are very much recognised and has led some to make the conscious decision of switching to a Natural Deodorant.

So why would you replace your usual roll-on/ spray antiperspirant for a natural deodorant? 

Aluminium

Aluminium salts are used as the active ingredient in antiperspirants. They work by temporarily blocking the sweat glands to prevent the flow of sweat to the skin’s surface.

Breast Cancer UK states that in the UK, over 50% of breast cancer starts in the upper outer quadrant of the breast near the underarm. This is the area closest to where antiperspirant is applied. Studies have suggested that aluminium compounds can be absorbed by the skin, particularly on broken skin e.g. after shaving, and cause estrogen-like (hormonal) effects. Therefore, some scientists claim that the daily intake of high levels of aluminium in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer.

One area of particular concern is how frequent exposure to multiple chemicals during key periods of development, mainly puberty and pregnancy, increases a person’s susceptibility to breast cancer later in life.

By avoiding aluminium based antiperspirants you can also say goodbye to those ugly yellow stains on clothing, especially light coloured tops. The stain is a result of a chemical reaction between the aluminium compounds and sweat. In fact, sweat alone has no colour or odour! It is the bacteria on the skin breaking down the sweat which creates odour. Perspiration is a natural process and not quite the enemy we make it out to be so there’s no need to attempt blocking it.

Parabens

Parabens are a family of chemical preservatives used commonly in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food products containing a lot of water. Examples include deodorant, shampoo, and facial cleansers because they prevent the growth of bacteria. The health concerns they pose include UV-induced damage of skin cells and cell growth rate. In addition, hormone disruption because of their ability to mimic oestrogen, especially for pregnant women and young children. They are absorbed through the skin and have been identified in biopsy samples from breast tumours.

Alcohol

Alcohol can cause allergies and dry skin. If you have noticed your skin gets irritated after using antiperspirants or deodorants it might be because of this ingredient.

Fragrance

Fragrance can be made up of any 3,000 various chemicals which aren’t all disclosed by manufactures, since they don’t need to be. Even though we spritz perfume on over our clothes this ingredient shouldn’t be in other personal care products (especially not ones which are rubbed directly into your skin), unless it is natural fragrance like essential oils.

If you are able to find safer alternatives to potentially harmful commercial products which are just as effective, if not more so, than why not switch to these and avoid any potential health risk altogether? Our Natural Deodorant Creams do not contain aluminium, parabens, alcohol or synthetic fragrances. You can view the range here.