Parabens
Parabens are found in a variety of beauty and skincare products, but ongoing research suggests that this popular ingredient is actually very dangerous. A 2004 study found that parabens have been linked to breast cancer and they could also disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. “Parabens are thought to be harmful because they mimic estrogen in the body, which was first linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues in the early 2000s. Some also believe that inhalation of these ingredients is harmful because if parabens can be stored in the body, there is a chance they could pose a health risk over time,” according to Dr. Harold Lancer, celebrity dermatologist and founder of Lancer Skincare.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the biggest ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants because it reduces wetness and blocks the sweat ducts in your underarms. They also minimize body odor by inhibiting the bacteria that feed on your sweat and cause it. But, all of that blockage can actually be bad for the body because it’s not allowing the necessary toxins to be flushed out. “We believe sweating is a normal body function and essential to not only regulating the body temperature, but ridding the body of toxins and working to keep the body healthy,” says Danielle Raynor, founder of natural beauty brand Lavanila.
Aluminum has also been linked to Alzheimer’s Disease, too! “During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum was identified as a possible suspect in Alzheimer’s,” says Keith Fargo, director of scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association. Other studies have found that Alzheimer’s patients had high levels of aluminum in their brains, leading researchers to make a scary connection between the popular ingredient and the disease.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
“I strongly suggest avoiding methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone, as these may cause allergic skin issues for some people," Dr. Adam Sheridan, a Melbourne-based dermatologist suggests. This ingredient isn’t only lurking in your deodorant, but it can also be found in wet wipes and certain moisturizers, too!
Triclosan
Triclosan is another ingredient that can irritate the skin and cause contact dermatitis. According to Organics.org, the FDA classifies triclosan as a pesticide, while the IARC has it listed as a possible carcinogen.
Now that you know what to avoid, here are the organic deodorants you should be using that are free of these harmful ingredients:
Schmidt's Natural Deodorant Bergamot Lime ($4.99)
Schmidt’s natural deodorant features a bright, citrus scent that is made with natural plant and mineral-derived ingredients. It will help neutralize odor and absorb wetness without the use of aluminum, phthalates, and artificial fragrance.
Tom's of Maine Natural Deodorant Stick ($4.29)
Tom’s Of Maine is one of the most popular natural deodorant brands as it provides aluminum-free odor protection that lasts all day long. Its natural fragrance formula will keep you smelling fresh all day without harming your body.
Nourish Organic Fresh Dry Deodorant Stick Geranium ($9.99)
Nourish Organic’s Deodorant is made with sensitive underarms in mind. It features a blend of naturally deodorizing cornstarch and vegetable protein, soothing shea and cocoa butters, beeswax and coconut oil that work together to keep you feeling fresh and odor-free.
Meow Meow Tweet Lavender Bergamot Deodorant Stick ($13.99)
Meow Meow Tweet’s Lavender Bergamot deodorant stick is a “synergy” of plant and mineral powders with essential oils that keep you smelling fresh and protected all day long. “We know that you need something that won’t irritate your underarms and works for the whole day. Skin conditioning, organic plant oils and butters moisturize and soothe even the most sensitive skin,” according to the brand.
Looking for more natural skincare products to try? Check out the 5 Cheap Natural Thinning Hair Products That Give You Instant Results at SheFinds.com!
[Photos: Shutterstock]