Aluminum Free Deodorant

You might have noticed the deodorant* movement where manufacturers and consumers are seeking aluminium free options, but do you understand why?

Aluminium is a metal that when in the body in excess will store in deposits that significantly impact your bodily systems. It has been linked with breast cancer, Alzheimer's, bone disorders, kidney problems and a host of other issues. Aluminium is also a known neurotoxin (1).

This is largely why you DO NOT want aluminium unnecessarily applied to your body where it will invariably be absorbed. The risk is heightened when you shave under your arms and potentially nick yourself, as when the deodorant is applied, it will soak in even more readily.

A clear sign that you may be allergic to the toxins in your deodorant is that you will exhibit some irritation in the area you have applied. This is a sure sign to stop using that product immediately and seek out an alternative.

However you need to beware, seeking out an aluminium-free deodorant is not always the safest option. Some aluminium-free deodorants still contain other nasties that need to be avoided, for example triclosan and propylene glycol, both endocrine disrupters (1). Studies on triclosan have also demonstrated links with decreasing thyroid hormone levels, making bacteria resistant antibiotics and the potential of skin cancer developing with long-term exposure (2).

But rest assured Bulk Wholefoods has us covered, literally. They stock natural deodorants such as, Schmidts sticks and pastes, LaVanila sticks and Biologika roll on, which are all free from nasties and should keep you protected all day long. You may need to try a few different options before you find the natural deodorant that works best for you, but it will be worth the patience and persistence.

Last but not least, you can always try making your own deodorant will all natural ingredients. Here is one I have tried:

• ¼ cup arrowroot powder

• ¼ cup baking soda**

• 4-5 tbs coconut oil

• 8-10 drops essential oil (I like tea tree oil for its antibacterial and antifungal properties also)

Method: combine the powder ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat and add the coconut oil one tablespoon at a time, stirring as you go until the consistency is dough-like. Remove from the heat and stir through your essential oils. Spoon into a glass jar and allow to cool.

*although 'deodorant' and 'antiperspirant' are technically 2 different products, for the ease of simplicity in this article when I refer to deodorant I am referring to something that you apply under your arms in order to prevent or mask any body odour.

**please ensure that your baking soda is aluminium free. The majority on the market are and some will put ‘aluminium free’ on their label as well. However, just because it’s not written clearly on the label, please don’t assume it contains aluminium. This was more of an issue years ago, but has been phased out in recent times.

References:

1. http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/why-you-should-use-aluminum-free-deodorant/

2. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm205999.htm