After a long sweaty workout or a day spent at work, perhaps you may likely not smell too good. With that thought in mind, it’s probably not surprising why so many of us use antiperspirants to stop sweat from occurring. But did you know, that most commercial deodorants use harmful chemicals that could be detrimental to your health? These products contain chemicals called aluminum salts that help keep sweat at bay by blocking the action of sweat glands. However, doing so may come at a cost.
This blog explains why you should ditch commercial antiperspirants and switch to aluminum-free deodorants instead. Read on to find out more about the pros and cons of using aluminum-free deodorant, its alternatives, and the safest ways to deal with body odor without exposing yourself to dangerous chemicals.
What is aluminum?
Aluminum is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in plants, animals, and even humans. It is found in our bodies, in foods like vegetables, meats, and even some seafood. But what does this have to do with deodorant? Well, when people apply aluminum-based antiperspirants, the body absorbs the chemical. Aluminum is a known neurotoxin and “scientists have suggested that the aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer” as stated in the PubMed Abstract Journal. Aluminum has also been linked to Alzheimer’s, and neurological disorders.
One of the main reasons why aluminum deodorant may be bad for your body is because it can interfere with the way your body processes hormones. According to Cancer.org, “ some research suggests that aluminum-containing underarm antiperspirants, which are applied frequently and left on the skin near the breast, may be absorbed by the skin and have estrogen-like (hormonal) effects.”
Why I switched
Some research papers and scientists will still state there is no evidence on aluminum to suggest any links to harmful effects on the body. If you do a little research, you will quickly see the words like “strongly suggest”, yet other words like “not enough evidence to prove”. While the research is yet to be fully validated and confirmed, I am opting to be on the safer side where I don’t need to worry about the “what ifs”.
Every day I make conscience decisions and choices to better balance my hormones and since studies suggest there could be implications with using aluminum-based deodorants, I strongly choose to use aluminum-free deodorants out of precaution.
Aluminum-free deodorants use more natural minerals like crystal-based salts and even sodium bicarbonate, aka baking soda to absorb wetness and neutralize odor.
Okay, check out my top reasons to switch to an aluminum-free deodorant.
They can be as effective at keeping you smelling fresh and dry all day. They work by absorbing wetness and neutralizing odor-causing bacteria—just like their aluminum-containing counterparts.
They won’t clog your pores and will allow your pores to breathe like they were designed to do.
Most importantly, you will have peace of mind knowing that you are taking an active part against causing unwanted side effects or acquiring diseases based on some suggested studies.
Aluminum-free deodorants
Recently many brands have gotten on board with removing toxic chemicals from deodorants and have gone aluminum free. We now have many healthy alternatives to choose from. There are also plenty of sprays, roll-ons, and solid sticks made with aluminum-free formulas. Below are some of my favorites that I use and recommend.
Aluminum-free deodorant is becoming a more popular choice amongst people and my hope is that you would be aware of this knowledge, do your own research, and do what works best for you and your body.