What You Should Know Before Purchasing Your Next Deodorant

No one wants to smell bad, but is using deodorant or antiperspirant really good for your health? Body odor is caused when bacteria which is naturally found on the skin feeds on your sweat. Antiperspirant works to stop that problem by clogging your pores with aluminum salts, blocking the route by which sweat exits the body. Deodorants, on the other hand, don’t stop you from sweating; rather they make the skin acidic which keeps odor causing bacteria at bay. do

The problem lies with the chemicals found in these products, and they effect they have on the body when it absorbs them. Antiperspirants are a double offender – in addition to introducing harmful chemicals into the body, they block your pores which can cause a build-up of toxins in your body.

Studies have linked the use of deodorants and antiperspirants to breast cancer, Alzheimer’s, and allergic reactions. All major studies that have been conducted on these issues have shown conflicting data, however even the inconclusive results are cause for concern.

If you want to avoid the potentially harmful effects of deodorant and antiperspirant, what options do you have?

Natural deodorants are now quite common, and can be found at pretty much any store where commercial deodorants are stored. However, now that everyone is going green, many products out there claim to be “natural” but still use chemicals that can be dangerous. One such example is propylene glycol, which can cause skin irritation.

If you’re looking for a natural deodorant that you can buy, try using crystal deodorants, which contain mineral salts. They work by constricting the protein in sweat so that the bacteria have less to feed on. Another option is clays and powders, like kaolin and bentonite or cornstarch and arrowroot powder, which absorb moisture. Astringents such as witch hazel, sage, and alcohol also help constrict pores and are best when used with essential oils that have antibacterial properties.

Popular brand name natural deodorants include:

·         Dr. Hauschka

·         Weleda, Erbaviva

·         Aubrey Calendula Blossom Natural Deodorant Spray

·         Miessence Roll-on Deodorant

·         Burt’s Bees Herbal Deodorant

·         Terressentials Organic Super Protection Deodorant

If you’re feeling a bit more intrepid, you can try making your own using these recipes found on Care2.

Witch Hazel Tea Tree Double Whammy
10 drops tea tree essential oil
1 ounce of witch hazel

Ken’s Deodorant
4 ounces witch hazel
8 drops lavender essential oil
4 drops rosemary essential oil
2 drops patchouli essential oil

Woodland Deodorant
1/4 cup 80 proof vodka
1/4 cup distilled water
10 drops tea tree
16 drops cedarwood essential oil
20 drops sandalwood essential oil

Exotic Deodorant
1/4 cup 80 proof vodka
1/4 cup distilled water
10 drops geranium Egypt essential oil
10 drops patchouli essential oil
15 drops lavender essential oil

What are your favorite deodorants?  Share in the comments!

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