Deodorant is something that we use every single day & because it’s applied to a very sensitive area of our skin, switching over to a natural deodorant alternative is a great way to reduce your toxic load.
Types of Deodorant
𝟏. Deodorants are designed to reduce and conceal body odor. Deodorants are generally made up of two types of ingredients - those which mask the smell & antibacterial agents that prevent bacterial overgrowth.
𝟐. Antiperspirants are designed to prevent the body from being able to sweat by physically blocking your sweat glands. Antiperspirants are actually classified as a drug because they interfere with the body's normal function. All antiperspirants will contain a form of aluminum, as it is the only active substance approved for use by the FDA in the prevention of sweat.
Sweating is part of our body’s natural detoxification process. It assists with the removal of toxic elements from the body including arsenic, cadmium, lead & mercury. 1
What To Avoid (& Why)
✘ Triclosan is a broad-spectrum antibacterial which is an established endocrine disrupter. Studies have observed an association between a rise in Triclosan exposure and reproductive and developmental defects in infants. # This chemical was banned by the FDA in America for use in soap but remained allowed in other personal care products like deodorant, toothpaste, mouthwash & beauty products🤷♀️
✘ Aluminum has the ability to interfere with the function of estrogen receptors which plays a role in the development of some forms of breast cancer.# What has not yet been established is whether long term low-level absorption from antiperspirant could play a role in the increasing incidence of breast cancer. As you know, we like to err on the side of caution which is why we recommend avoiding Aluminium.
✘ Diethanolamine (DEA) is an emulsifier which is has been linked to cancer in animal studies. 2 The European Commission prohibits DEA in cosmetics due to concerns about formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines.
✘ Talc is a mineral made up mainly of the elements magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. In its natural form, it contains asbestos. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies talc that contains asbestos as “carcinogenic to humans.” Johnson & Johnson, who produce talcum powder currently has over 13,000 talc-related lawsuits against them due to the link between talcum powder & ovarian cancer. 3
What To Look For
✓ Natural antibacterial agents like certain essential oils, baking soda, activated charcoal, bentonite clay, or zeolite.
✓ Natural essential oil fragrance essential oils are an incredible, natural way to make beauty products smell amazing!
Our Personal Favorites
I have tried many natural deodorants & put them all to the F45 road test... let's just say not many pass this test! Here are my favorites:
- No Pong Sensitive. This is my daily go-to. It's a paste made from coconut oil, magnesium, diatomaceous earth, beeswax & essential oils. Shop here.
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Mukti Botanique Deodorant. This is a great lighter option for winter. Shop here.