Is Your Deodorant Toxic?

Every day we put on our favourite fragrances and cosmetics and unknowingly subject ourselves to toxic chemicals. Over time, these toxic chemicals can cause cancers, tumours, bronchial issues and other health related problems.

According to the National Cancer Society, “Reports have suggested that these products contain harmful substances, which can be absorbed through the skin or enter the body through nicks caused by shaving. Some scientists have also proposed that certain ingredients in underarm antiperspirants or deodorants may be related to breast cancer because they are applied frequently to an area next to the breast.”

Since our skin is our largest organ, we need to take measures to ensure that what we put on it is as natural as possible.

Here are five harmful chemicals found in deodorant:


1. Aluminum

Aluminum compounds are added to deodorant to block the pores from sweating.  Aluminum, like other heavy metals, may interfere with the ability of estrogen receptors to correctly process the hormone and are linked to breast cancer in women, prostate cancer in men, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.

2. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives used in some deodorants and antiperspirants that have been shown to mimic the activity of estrogen in the body’s cells. This chemical disrupts hormonal balances and can lead to early puberty in children and hormone-related cancers in women and organ toxicity. The belief that parabens build up in breast tissue was supported by a 2004 study, which found parabens in 18 of 20 samples of tissue from human breast tumors.

3. Propylene glycol

When this chemical is paired with other chemical additives, it can be extremely dangerous. This ingredient causes damage to the central nervous system, liver and heart. Even in small concentrations (2 percent or less), propylene glycol provokes skin irritation in those with sensitive skin. Moreover, some manufacturers have made deodorants with 50 percent propylene glycol content. Believe it or not, you’re likely to find this in many “natural” deodorants.

4.  Phthalates

Phthalates are another class of chemicals that are often used in deodorants and antiperspirants that you may want to avoid. Phthalates are used in cosmetics, synthetic fragrances, plastics, body care products and medical goods. They help to dissolve other ingredients and to create a better consistency.

The problem with phthalates is that they have been linked to a variety of health issues. High phthalate blood and urine levels in women of child bearing age have been linked to a higher risk of birth defects. This suggests that phthalates may disrupt hormone receptors as well as increase the likelihood of cell mutation.

5. Triclosan

Triclosan is classified as a pesticide according to the FDA. Although the FDA uses are not regulated under pesticide law, EPA considered these exposures in the aggregate risk  assessment. In deodorants, triclosan is used as an antibacterial agent and preservative, and reacts with tap water to create chloroform gas, a potential carcinogen. This chemical can also possess endocrine disrupting properties that has shown up in human breast milk and blood.

Natural Alternatives

Rather than allowing chemicals and toxins to absorb into the skin, learn about the natural alternatives that are out there.

Mineral salts with active ingredients, such as ammonium or potassium alum work by constricting the protein in sweat so that bacteria have less to feed on. Clay minerals, such as bentonite, and natural powders like cornstarch or arrowroot help absorb moisture. Essential oils working in conjunction with natural astringents (witch hazel, alcohol, etc.) have also been shown to help evaporate moisture on the skin and constrict pores. Another alternative is to make your own deodorant.

Here are some homemade recipes to try:

DIY Deodorant

Quick Deodorant