Deodorant is pretty much a daily essential. It keeps us smelling fresh and clean in all of the stressful or sweat-inducing situations life throws at us. But have you ever stopped to consider what ingredients are actually in your deodorant?
Like most people, I used to buy the stuff off of the drugstore shelf promising the best results. I want a deodorant that stands up to a strenuous workout followed by a long day at the office and a dinner date at night. Is that too much to ask?
I was surprised to learn that mainstream deodorant, or the products that you can find on the shelf at most stores, may not be great for your health. In fact, many skincare experts recommend detoxing from mainstream products and switching to natural deodorant options. But why is it necessary to make the switch?
What’s so bad about conventional deodorant?
You may have been using regular deodorant for years with no noticeable side effects, but that does not mean the issues aren’t there. Conventional deodorant can irritate your skin and keep your body from carrying out its necessary functions. Keep reading to learn more about the dangers of common deodorants and how to can successfully transition to a natural alternative.
Sweat prevention
The most common deodorants today often double as antiperspirants. These products are so effective, they prevent our bodies from sweating, or at least greatly reduce the amount of sweat we produce. Sweating, however, is natural and our bodies actually need to sweat to function properly. Sweating ensures that our body temperature is properly regulated and assists the body in releasing toxins. Deodorants that are full of chemicals or work as antiperspirants clog your pores, which is not optimal for good health.
Skin irritation
When antiperspirants clog your pores to prevent you from sweating, they cause sweat to build up internally. This build up under your skin can lead to serious irritations as well as bumpy or painful skin. You may notice that your armpits are irritated on a regular basis or you suffer from razor burns. These issues could be caused or worsened by the deodorant you use.
Health issues
The chemicals found in mainstream deodorant, as well as aluminum and preservatives, have been linked to some serious health issues. While there is still more research to be done in order to prove the correlation, it is wise to be mindful of what you put on your body. Like most products you put on your skin, deodorant is ultimately absorbed into your skin and your body. Breast cancer and Alzheimer’s have been associated with the ingredients found in many common deodorant products.
Why are natural deodorants the solution?
Natural deodorants, also known as non-toxic deodorants, can keep you smelling good while eliminating the issues and risks common in conventional deodorants. In addition to avoiding the health issues listed above, there are many benefits of using a natural deodorant.
These non-toxic deodorants will not clog up your pores, so your body can function like it was meant to. The good bacteria on your skin will work to reduce odor even when you are not wearing deodorant, and your armpits will not be irritated. You may even find that you get a closer shave that lasts longer!
There is no need to worry about sweat stains on your clothes with natural deodorants either, even if you find yourself sweating a little more than usual. There are some ingredients found in non-toxic deodorant that can sooth your skin and shrink your pores as well. You can even find a variety of non-scented options to let your other preferred fragrances shine.
How do you make the switch to non-toxic deodorants?
The process for switching from conventional deodorant to a natural alternative can take more time than you would anticipate. If you’ve been using conventional deodorant your whole life, your body will have to re-regulate and detox. Think about it this way. Regular deodorant clogs your pores, so your body has to release the toxins and sweat trapped under your skin in order for natural deodorant to be effective.
It can take as long as 30 days for your body to completely adjust to the transition. During that time, you may notice yourself sweating more than usual or even smelling a little worse than you’d like. It’s important to stay the course and don’t give up! The process is natural, and it won’t last forever. Follow the tips below to make your transition as smooth as possible during these 30 days.
- Avoid using any deodorant products for a couple of days
- Take hot baths to open your pores and release sweat
- Exfoliate your underarms each week and wash each day
- Avoid synthetic clothing that is tight-fitting
- Drink a lot of water
- Increase your workouts
- Avoid highly sulfurous foods (like broccoli)
- Look for a natural deodorant that works for you – you may have to find a few before you settle on one you like.
- Depending on your activity level, you may need to reapply again during the day.
Where do you find non-toxic deodorants?
A few years ago, it was more difficult to find natural, safer deodorant alternatives. Nowadays, the concept is pretty mainstream and you can find great natural products all over, even at Target! Whole foods has a pretty great selection, and I know the one from Primally Pure is very popular. I tried a few different ones before I found one I really liked and I order it from Thrive Market (discounted!). It’s pretty affordable and lasts me about 6 months.
Conclusion
While it may seem scary to switch over to natural deodorant and go through the detox process, it is definitely worth the benefits. You can take care of your body by avoiding products that clog your pores, prevent sweat, and irritate your skin. Just remember that no two non-toxic deodorants are alike. You may have to experiment with different products and ingredients before finding one you like.
What has your experience been with natural deodorants? Did you make the switch from conventional to non-toxic? Would love to start a discussion in the comments!
Also Read : The Perfect Skincare Gifts for Clean Beauty Lovers
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