What’s the big stink about using common deodorants?
Because our underarms contain pores, we risk exposure to toxic chemicals when we apply products absorbed by those pores. Many deodorants are filled with fragrances, parabens, and aluminum, and all of these chemicals are ones we should avoid whenever possible.
Why?
You may not realize that fragrances, which might smell good on the outside, are often damaging us on the inside. Due to their lack of regulation from the FDA, they are typically ridden with chemicals. Parabens are likewise detrimental to our bodies, acting as hormone disruptors as well as a possible link to an increased risk of breast cancer. Considering your breast is right next to your underarm, avoiding the application of chemicals in this area should be a consistent priority. Many tumors removed from the breast are found to contain parabens, which is why the link is being made between parabens and breast cancer.
Those of you with young girls wanting to start smelling a little fresher should be especially focused on which deodorant you purchase for her—this choice could be a potentially lifesaving one for your daughter.
Lastly, it’s important you understand the dangers of aluminum. Though it may seem innocuous, there’s a great deal of research being done on the connection between exposure to aluminum and the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease. With the health of your brain at stake as you age, minimizing your contact with this metal and its alloys is definitely in your best interest.
With regard to deodorant, our advice is to choose a natural alternative. Avoid fragrance, parabens (butylparaben, isobutylparaben, propylparaben, isopropylparapen), and aluminum by seeking toxin-free brands. Whole Foods, Sprouts, and other stores that offer organic products have several lines available, but no matter which you choose, be sure to read the label: all so-called “healthy” brands are not alike.
As mentioned in a prior post, we recommend visiting EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database (www.ewg.org/skindeep) to view potentially hazardous ingredients in your favorite products. Once you know which ones to avoid, your shopping will become much easier, guaranteed!
If you’d like to read more on the topic of deodorants, here are links for two excellent articles:
http://www.disabled-world.com/artman/publish/deodorant-cancer.shtml
http://www.suite101.com/content/aluminum-in-deodorant-a45498