When looking for a deodorant, one of the first things people might do
is glance at the list of ingredients. There have been many reports
about the possible harmful effects of certain things used in deodorants
and many health conscious consumers have started to make a conscious
effort to avoid them when possible. After all, when you hear something
like deodorants cause cancer, it certainly catches your attention.
Before getting into a list of things you might want to avoid, it
should be noted that most experts agree that deodorant use is relatively
safe. There is no conclusive evidence that certain chemicals used in
deodorant products are directly responsible for any adverse health
effects. What is known is that these ingredients have shown an ability
to cause serious diseases due to certain attributes they demonstrate.
In addition, while there is no direct evidence to say that chemicals in
deodorants cause cancer, there isn't any to say otherwise either. It
sounds a bit wishy-washy, but it really comes down to a person's own way
of thinking. Both sides of the argument use the same train of thought.
Experiments have shown a correlation between the two, that is a fact.
However, one side argues that other factors unrelated to deodorant
chemicals are not considered in those studies so how can any conclusion
be made with certainty. The other side says the same thing. Who is to
say it isn't? Is it just a mere coincidence?
Aluminum (Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Aluminum
Zircronium) - A chemical salt used to prevent perspiration. It gets
dissolved in sweat and forms a protective layer which blocks sweat
glands and prevents sweat from being secreted onto the surface of the
skin. Aluminum has been linked to Alzheimer's disease as well as kidney
and liver damage.
Parabens (Methyl, Butyl, Ethyl, etc) - Used as both a
preservative and antibacterial, parabens have been linked specifically
to the development of breast cancer. A study done in the UK sampled 20
tissue specimens taken from breast cancer tumors. 18 of the samples
contained higher than normal amounts of parabens. Parabens are known to
have estrogen like effects on cells. Estrogen is a primary cause of
breast cancer development.
Triclosan - An antibacterial additive to many
hygiene products. Triclosan is classified as a pesticide by the FDA and
a possible carcinogen by the EPA. It is also thought to cause skin
irritations and rash in about 15% of deodorant users.
Phthalates - A group of chemicals used in deodorants
that help to maintain consistency. It works to make the other
ingredients more cohesive. Phthalates are thought to cause an increase
in birth defect chances due to cell mutation.
In closing, if you're looking for a healthier deodorant or a deodorant alternative all together, make sure to steer clear of anything that
contains one or more of the ingredients listed above. Again, it is not
proven 100% that these chemicals in deodorant use cause serious health
problems, however it might be wise to err on the side of caution... just
in case.
