It is a misconception that deodorants and antiperspirants are a modern invention. The smell of sweat was never associated with something pleasant in humans, so even the ancient Greeks and Romans carried bags with aromatic herbs under their arms, and noble medieval Europeans drowned out the smell of sweat with expensive aromatic oils brought from the East.
Modern deodorants appeared only in the 30s of the 20th century, and by the end of the millennium, this cosmetic product became an integral part of the daily care of almost every person. But with progress, in addition to general availability, awareness of the harm done by such deodorants has come, and humanity is once again on the path to finding the perfect cure for sweat that does not harm health.
How does deodorant work
Sweat secretion is the ability of the human body to regulate body temperature. That is why when we are worried or afraid, we sweat harder - this is how the body lowers body temperature. Therefore, in the heat we sweat very profusely. However, microorganisms are present on the skin that decompose sweat particles and give it an unpleasant odor. Various factors can enhance this smell - human nutrition, personal hygiene, or disease.
Deodorants are able to mask this smell, often they also contain antibacterial components that kill the very microorganisms, depriving sweat of an unpleasant odor. However, it should be borne in mind that these funds do not affect the sweating system and do not block it. Only antiperspirants are capable of this. That is, the deodorant will not provide you with dry armpits on a hot day, but it will definitely save you from the unpleasant smell of sweat.
There are products that combine these two functions - they reduce the production of sweat and fight against microorganisms that cause odor. These are the most popular and effective, but also dangerous antiperspirant deodorants.
Why are ordinary deodorants dangerous?
The skin under the armpits is very thin, so it perfectly absorbs (that is, absorbs) everything that is applied to it. That is why many scientists and doctors are concerned about getting into the tissue, and then into the bloodstream, of the substances that make up the deodorant. It is proved that a large number of chemical elements that enter the human body can have a negative effect on his health - the functioning of the lymph nodes, the hormonal system, and the risk of developing cancer. The smallest of evils, but the most common, is allergic reactions.
Dangerous compound
So, what should one be especially wary of? First, of course, is aluminum. A lot has been said and written about his harm in the deodorant. Aluminum salts (look for the inscription aluminum on the packaging) reduce the flow of sweat glands, which reduces the production of sweat. However, some of these salts are heavy metals that can accumulate in the body. They can lead to a decrease in estrogen production, as well as provoke the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Secondly, carefully look for propylene glycol in the deodorant. It is widely used because of the ability to bind water molecules together, which means it retains moisture. However, it also helps to accelerate the absorption of various chemical elements into the skin, which, as we recall, is not too good for health. In addition, it is very allergic - only 2% of this substance in the composition will cause an allergic reaction to the skin.
Safe deodorant brands never include triclosan. It is usually used because of its high ability to kill bacteria and germs on the surface of the skin. However, in Canada and Japan, all cosmetics with triclosan are prohibited, since this substance can accumulate in the tissues and disrupt the human hormonal system.
The next item on the dangerous composition of deodorant is paraben, used as a preservative. It, unlike aluminum, increases estrogen production. There are studies that have revealed the presence of an increased paraben content in women with breast cancer. While there is no accurate data on whether paraben affects the risk of developing this type of oncology, however, scientists unanimously recommend not using this substance until the exact mechanism of its action on the body is clarified.
And finally, phthalates. They help keep the fragrance of the cosmetic product on the skin longer. But they also reduce the work of testosterone in the body. And it is dangerous not only for men, but also for women - insufficient work of these hormones negatively affects pregnancy and fetal development.
When conventional deodorants are especially dangerous
A listing of all the dangerous ingredients of the deodorant suggests that it is primarily at risk for women. But even among them there are those for whom the risk is not just hypothetical, but rather probable. And first of all, these are pregnant women who should know which deodorant is better not to use. The risk of using conventional deodorants during pregnancy is associated not only with the harmful effects of its components on the endocrine and hormonal systems. Worse, too strong antiperspirant deodorants can completely block perspiration. And in this case, its components enter the bloodstream. And if for the woman herself this is not so dangerous, then for the fetus, which has the same circulatory system with her mother, this can be very fatal.
Regular deodorants are no less harmful to lactating women - the ingress of chemical compounds into the blood can cause various skin reactions in a child, especially a very small one.
It is also worth choosing safe deodorants for teens, especially for girls. This is the third risk group, since they only form a hormonal system. Excessive application of deodorants and leaving them on the skin for a long time can disrupt the functioning of the endocrine and hormonal systems.
Which deodorants are safe
So, we found out which inscriptions in the composition should be avoided. But what is the difference between a harmless product and how will it ensure the absence of sweat and unpleasant odor?
The main component that has a safe deodorant is mineral salts, most often alum. They do not block the work of the glands, but dehydrate the very microorganisms responsible for the appearance of a smell.
As an antimicrobial agent in natural formulations, it is not triclosan that is used, but essential oils, for example, lemon, lavender, and especially tea tree.
Look for deodorants that do not contain aluminum; instead, natural astringents help narrow the sweat, narrowing pores - oak bark or sage. Safe absorbents will help to remove excess moisture - white clay (kaolin), corn or rice starch, soda.
How to choose a harmless deodorant
To choose the safest deodorant, do not trust the marks on the packaging “eco”, “bio” or “natural”. It is better to verify this by reading the composition. What should be in it, and what should not, we have already figured out. If the composition of the product convinced you of safety, also pay attention to the special badges that are found on all safe cosmetics. These are icons with various images of a rabbit that tell us that cosmetics is not tested on animals. There are also a number of international certificates assigned to environmentally friendly products, for example, the French certificate AB, German BDIH or the single European certificate NaTrue.
Also look at the shelf life of the cosmetic product - the higher it is, the more preservatives in it that theoretically can cause irritation to the skin.
Types of Deodorants Safe for Health
Now let's say a few words about the form of deodorant, because it is also very important. Now on sale you can find the following types:
- Sprays - even with a safe composition are not suitable for those who have lung diseases, and they are also consumed faster than others.
- Ball deodorants - the bottle contains a liquid product that is evenly applied to the skin using a roller, which allows it to be used economically.
- Hard, or sticks - create a film on the surface of the skin, which better protects it from sweat.
- Gel - similar to roller, but inside is not a liquid composition, but gel-like, it dries faster on the skin, but is more common in products for men.
- Crystals.
The latter should be said separately. Such deodorants that do not contain synthetic aluminum are a piece of natural aluminum in the form of a crystal. It has the ability to narrow pores and kill bacteria on the surface of the skin. These are the safest and most economical natural deodorants that do not have a foreign smell, do not leave marks on clothes and have no contraindications.
Top Brands for Women
When choosing the safest deodorant for women, pay attention to products of German brands, for example Dr. Hauschka or Wolken Seifen. Both of them perfectly neutralize the smell, but the latter has zinc in it, which can leave white marks on clothes.
World-famous cosmetics company Weleda also has a safe deodorant in the product line, but there is one thing. It contains alcohol, it does not make the product dangerous, but it can cause irritation and dry skin.
Classic crystals are also popular, for example, from the Lafes brand. Among the deodorant sticks, SPEICK is distinguished, which not only does not have the above dangerous ingredients, but also does not include mineral oils and synthetic fragrances.
How to choose a deodorant for men
Choosing a safe deodorant for men is not an easy task. On the one hand, a man needs strong protection, especially for those who play sports or are used to an active lifestyle. On the other hand, it's worth thinking about health.
So which deodorants are safe? Among the safest but most effective anti-sweat products for the stronger sex, the Yves Rocher Sensitive Homme deodorant is perfect for sensitive skin. We also note Collistar Freshness Deo Active Protection - this spray does not have any components that cause allergies, no perfumes, no dyes, no preservatives. Also, there are no parabens and phthalates, in general, an ideal choice for those who care about health.
For those who prefer solid forms, the Clinique Skin Supplies For Men stick is a good fit. An additional bonus is that it has no smell, which means that it will not come into conflict with perfume.
DIY Natural Deodorant
If you do not know which deodorant is better, then do it yourself. To do this, take:
- 3 tablespoons of high-quality natural shea butter (shea butter) and coconut - they will give a cream base, comfortable for distribution on the skin.
- A cup of baking soda is an absorbent and disinfectant component.
- A glass of corn starch is another absorbent.
- A few drops of lemon essential oil for disinfection and a pleasant aroma.
At room temperature, mix well with the rest of the ingredients and place in an empty bottle from a regular deodorant stick. Put it in the refrigerator, and when the oil hardens, your safe deodorant can be used. Oil applied in a thin layer to the skin is instantly absorbed, while the remaining components remain on the surface and protect against the unpleasant odor of sweat.