Deodorant or antiperspirant?
First of all, it is important to understand the difference between these two tools. Deodorants work to eliminate odor without removing the sweat itself. And the main function of antiperspirants is that they block the secretions of the sweat glands. Reducing sweating is considered not the most beneficial for health, since it disrupts the processes of the excretory system. The main ingredient in antiperspirants that deals with sweat is aluminum salts. They block part of the pores, narrowing them, but not completely closing them. This prevents sweat from spreading to the surface of the skin.
There are thousands of articles on the Internet that report that this active ingredient in antiperspirants can affect cancer growth. However, there is not a single scientific study confirming the carcinogenicity of aluminum salts. Until now, scientists argue and continue research on the toxicity of these substances and their effect on the body. It is believed that the proportion of aluminum salts in antiperspirants is so small that they cannot adversely affect health. Proponents of preventive medicine claim that it is better to try to reduce the effects of foreign substances on the body, even if their toxicity is not fully confirmed. Therefore, when choosing between a deodorant or antiperspirant, it is important to answer the question for yourself:"Do you want to interfere with the body's excretory system?" If this does not bother you and you like the feeling of dryness, choose an antiperspirant.
Deodorant composition
Before deciding on a deodorant, you need to study its composition. A safe product should be free of triclosan, an antibacterial ingredient that kills odor-causing bacteria. This substance resembles antibiotics in action - it also kills beneficial flora. Triclosan is classified as a potential carcinogen that has a toxic effect on the body. In Europe and the United States, this substance is prohibited for use in cosmetics.
Look out for phthalates (phthalic acid salts) - substances that prolong the effect and increase the power of the fragrance. They allow deodorants to block out perspiration with a pleasant scent for longer. Many manufacturers continue to claim that phthalates are not harmful to human health. However, more and more Western studies are proving that these substances negatively affect the thyroid gland and the reproductive system.
Alcohol and propylene glycol are ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction, dryness and flaking. Almost all "unnatural" deodorants contain these substances. However, it is worth remembering that the closer to the end of the list alcohol and propylene glycol are listed, the safer the deodorant.
Natural deodorants
Essential oils are the main ingredients in natural deodorants. For example, tea tree and rosemary have an antibacterial effect, which allows them to kill bacteria without harm. Zinc oxide, starch or baking soda are responsible for reducing perspiration in natural deodorants. Also popular are herbal extracts that have an astringent effect: St. John's wort, oak bark, chamomile and sage. Of course, for all their merits, natural deodorants may be less effective at dealing with unpleasant odors. This is why they, like natural sunscreens, are recommended to be reapplied to cleansed skin throughout the day.>