Did you know that we absorb up to 60 percent of what we apply on our skin? Our skin is the largest organ in our body and it is permeable, meaning it allows liquids or gases to pass through it. It is likely that your daily go-to skin care products are loaded with harmful toxins and chemicals that could be affecting your health negatively. While you may not notice immediate reactions to these products, overtime the toxic burden can slowly build up in our bodies. This is especially true when it comes to your deodorant.

Deodorant works by inhibiting your body’s natural secretion of toxins, or simply, blocking the pores in your armpits and clogging your skin follicles so you don’t sweat as much (and smell as much). But here’s the problem, when you inhibit your body from working as it is supposed to, you are actually hurting it. On top of that, the ingredients in commonly used deodorants can cause further damage.

Dangerous Ingredients in Deodorants

Here’s are the toxins lurking in your deodorant, according to the National Cancer Institute.

1. Aluminum is added to deodorant to block your pores from sweating. Many studies have shown it to interfere with your bodies ability to process hormones like estrogen. (1)
2. Parabens are preservatives that have been shown to mimic the activity of estrogen in the body’s cells, which is why it is commonly used in deodorants. This chemical disrupts hormonal balances. (2)
3.  Triclosan is used an an antibacterial agent and preservative. As of December 2017, it has been issued under the U.S. Food and Drug Administrations final rule, which states that “certain active ingredients in over-the-counter antiseptics used in health care setting are not considered generally recognized as safe and effective due to insufficient data.” (3)
4. Propylene Glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water, according to the Agency of Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The agency also notes “frequent skin exposure to propylene glycol can sometimes irritate the skin.” It is also used to make artificial smoke and mists, like what is used during fire safety training and concerts. (4)

Here are other ingredients in your skin care products that can also be toxic for your health! >>

Natural Ingredients for Deodorant

The good news is that not all deodorants contain these toxic ingredients. Using a natural deodorant with ingredients like Aloe vera can actually help to rid your underarms of irritation and inflammation. Here are some ingredients that can still provide you with the same benefits of your current deodorant, without the chemicals and long lasting side effects.

1. Rice Flour has been used for centuries, especially in Asian cultures and cosmetics. Its main benefit is its ability to retain water and oils.†
2. Aloe Vera is a pant extract that has soothing, antioxidant properties and provides hydration for the skin.†
3. Apple Cider Vinegar contains malic acid, which makes for a great, natural antibacterial ingredient.†
4. Witch Hazel is a commonly used plant extract that has both antioxidant and soothing properties.†
5. Lavender Oil has been found in studies to be a natural antibacterial ingredient (plus, it smells great!).†
6. Tea Tree Leaf Oil is an antibacterial and has been shown to benefit irritated, inflamed skin.†
7. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, used as a free-radical scavenger.†

Questions about common toxin ingredients in your deodorant? Leave us a comment below!