Best and Worst Ingredients in Deodorant Products

Deodorants made from natural ingredients are controversial. We distrust most store-bought deodorant ingredients. However, we don’t always trust natural deodorants to last our longest, sweatiest days.

We want a natural deodorant that lets us sweat without uncomfortable scents. The key is choosing deodorant components that suit your body chemistry!

Look for these ingredients in a deodorant:

Choose pure deodorants that fight body odour without harming health. The following components support a healthy armpit microbiome, and fight smells.

• Zinc Oxide: 

Zinc oxide, the principal element in most mineral sunblocks, fights odour. It may surprise you that zinc oxide kills microorganisms. The primary bacteria that generate body odour are Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus. Zinc oxide fights both!

• Titanium dioxide:

Like its counterpart, titanium dioxide is an antibacterial mineral sunscreen component. This kills odour-causing microorganisms. Particles should not be nanosized, as breathing them could cause lung inflammation. These particles are most likely to be inhaled by powder or spray deodorants.

• Clay: 

Do not worry if conventional deodorants make your skin red and irritated. For troubled underarms, clay can help. Its best-known quality is oil, filth, and moisture absorption. That makes it an excellent deodorant component for hot summer activities!

• Charcoal:

Charcoal works like clay. Its main benefit is sweat and dirt absorption. Concerned about armpit stains? Fortunately, many charcoal deodorants dry clear, so your beloved sundress won’t be stained. 

• Baking Soda:

Food-grade baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) kills odour-causing microorganisms. It may also absorb moisture to keep armpits dry and fresh.

• Cider Vinegar:

Antibacterial apple cider vinegar is a popular natural deodorant component. Additionally, its acidic pH promotes good bacteria development and hinders terrible bacteria growth. It preserves our skin barrier, making infections easier to resist.

• Essential Oils:

 Essential oils can cover body odour and benefit the skin instead of perfumes. Lavender, peppermint, and tea trees are antimicrobial and odour-controlling. 

Avoid these ingredients in your deodorant:

Now that natural deodorants are popular, avoiding these substances is easier than ever.

• Aluminium:

Heavy aluminium use is connected to chronic illness. Shaving armpits may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s and breast cancer, even if research is inconsistent. Shaving before applying aluminium antiperspirant may increase infection risk. Nicks and abrasions on the skin allow chemicals and aluminium to enter lymph nodes and breast tissue, raising concerns that aluminium deodorant compounds can cause breast cancer. As a result, always look for an aluminium-free deodorant.

• Triclosan:

You won’t find triclosan in either hand sanitizers or antibacterial soap. The FDA banned this chemical from consumer items and healthcare in 2016 because it was unsafe and ineffective. The FDA considers triclosan a pesticide. Triclosan is an endocrine disruptor, according to scientists. This substance bioaccumulates and harms marine life, harming humans and the environment. 

• Parfum:

Parfum is called “fragrance.” Fragrance is a typical deodorant allergen, especially for sensitive skin. Parfum can cause a reaction even if you’re not allergic. Redness, irritation, and sensitization can result due to the use of this substance.

• Parabens:

Preservatives like parabens hinder microorganism growth. While preservatives prevent contamination, parabens may pose significant health hazards. They imitate estrogen and may increase breast cancer risk. Parabens were found in 99% of breast cancer tissue.

• Propylene Glycol:

 Deodorant sticks get their shape and feel from propylene glycol. Contact dermatitis and other allergic responses might result from its irritating properties.

Conclusion:

Now that you know the ingredients in deodorants, be cautious about the health factors before selecting the best product for yourself.