The quest to find the best (or even just a good) natural deodorant is ongoing here at the Be Well offices. We all want to avoid the nasty chemicals found in most conventional deodorants, but we also want to smell fresh and feel clean and dry!
Before we get into our favorite options, let’s just review some of the ingredients to AVOID when you’re in the deodorant aisle.
Aluminium
This metal is used in deodorants to inhibit your pores from releasing perspiration – that’s why it’s called anti-perspirant! Aluminum will stay in the body, accumulates over time and has been linked to breast cancer in some studies.
Propylene Glycol
Did you know that this common ingredient in so many beauty products was developed as an anti-freeze? It is a common skin irritant and allergen and should be avoided.
Parabens
This is a petrochemical, meaning it’s derived from petroleum, and found in pretty much all conventional cosmetics. It has many names including propyparaben, mineral oil, paraffin oil etc. Parabens are endocrine disruptors.
Triclosan
This anti-bacterial chemical often found in soaps and hand sanitizers is also an endocrine disruptor, even when only used in a low dose.
If you’re curious if the deodorant you’re using is safe, check it out in the Skin Deep Database by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
