Posted by Deena A. on 3rd May 2024
Deodorant: Why We Use It & Chemical Controversy (Part 1)
This topic is extensive, so I've decided to split it into two parts, but even then, it will only touch on the basics. In Part 1, I will discuss why sweating occurs and the chemical debate. In Part 2, I will delve into the lymphatic system, explore the advantages of cream deodorants, and provide some dos and don'ts.
Why Do We Sweat?
While we might not like it, sweating is normal and is very important for cooling off the body as well as keeping skin clean. We have sweat glands all over our body, it’s the sweat glands in our armpits and genitals that usually create the most odor. These sweat glands are called apocrine and apoeccrine glands. When sweat comes into contact with the bacteria that naturally live on your skin, it creates a body odor that most people find unpleasant.
Are Deodorants With Aluminum Bad for You, and Should You Switch to Natural?
Antiperspirant Vs Conventional Deodorant
Antiperspirants use compounds like aluminum to block sweat. The aluminum reacts with sweat and forms a plug inside the sweat duct, keeping sweat from coming out. Antiperspirants also treat excessive sweating (called hyperhidrosis). They’re available over the counter and in prescription strengths.
Deodorants eliminate or reduce bacteria with alcohol or other chemicals that kill bacteria (called antimicrobial). They can also have fragrances or other compounds to mask odors.
Aluminum is the main active ingredient in antiperspirants because it works well to prevent sweating. Extended exposure may lead to health concerns including breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and higher risks for individuals with kidney disease. However, these health concerns don’t have enough scientific evidence to come to any complete conclusions.
Are Deodorants With Aluminum Bad for You, and Should You Switch to Natural?
Breast Cancer
Over the years there has been a concern that the aluminum accumulates in breast tissue, where it can act like estrogen. Estrogen has been linked with an increased risk of breast cancer. Several studies have looked at this question. Most have shown that there’s no increased risk of cancer from using deodorants or antiperspirants. Some studies, including a more recent one, have pointed to a possible increased risk of breast cancer when underarm products are started at a younger age. But that might simply be because starting puberty at a younger age can increase the risk of breast cancer.
At this point, no definitive link has been established that these products can cause cancer, but more research is needed.
Oestrogen exposure and breast cancer risk
Antiperspirants and Breast Cancer Risk
Breast Cancer Risk Factors: Age at First Menstrual Period
Alzheimer's Disease
The research on aluminum and Alzheimer's disease is mixed. Some animal studies show that aluminum exposure can cause brain lesions that lead to Alzheimer’s. In humans, it’s less clear. Studies looking for a link between aluminum in drinking water and Alzheimer’s disease have been conflicting — some have found a link while others found no association. When it comes to aluminum-containing deodorant, there are no studies looking directly at the link between antiperspirant and Alzheimer’s risk. Only a small amount of aluminum is absorbed through the skin from deodorant but the jury is out on whether we should be concerned.
Are Deodorants With Aluminum Bad for You, and Should You Switch to Natural?
Persons with Kidney Disease
There have also been concerns about too much aluminum exposure in people with kidney disease. There are several reasons why someone with chronic kidney disease is more at risk for aluminum overload in general.The kidneys have a tougher time getting rid of aluminum in the blood. Some medications used to treat complications of kidney disease are aluminum-based. Sometimes people with chronic kidney disease need dialysis, a process of filtering out extra blood and toxins. In the past, dialysis sometimes created high levels of aluminum from all the water used. This led to several health problems, including a type of dementia called “dialysis dementia”.
Are Deodorants With Aluminum Bad for You, and Should You Switch to Natural?
Concerning Chemicals
It’s not just aluminum that people are concerned about. Other chemicals in deodorants and antiperspirants have also been studied to see if they lead to different health problems.
5 Things Wrong With Your Deodorant
Parabens
Parabens are artificial preservatives that prevent or reduce the growth of mold and harmful bacteria. The United Nations Environment Programme has identified parabens as a type of endocrine-disrupting chemical. This means that these chemicals may affect hormones in the body in different ways. Some of the concerns about affecting hormones include fertility problems, birth defects, and breast cancer. While there are currently no studies that prove a link between parabens in deodorant and these health concerns, it’s still something to be aware of.
Parabens: What Are These Chemical Preservatives?
About the United Nations Environment Programme
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals
Minireview: Parabens Exposure and Breast Cancer
Triclosan
Triclosan is a chemical used to kill bacteria. It may be linked to reproductive and thyroid problems as well as an increased risk of asthma. People are exposed to triclosan regularly. It’s added to many personal care products like toothpaste, hand sanitizers, soaps, and mouthwash. One study found that 75% of the population has triclosan in their urine. However, it’s not clear if these levels cause problems. Once again, more research is needed.
5 Things to Know About Triclosan
Triclosan Exposure, Transformation, and Human Health Effects
Phthalates
Phthalates are compounds that help deodorant stick to the skin. They’re another type of endocrine-disrupting chemical. Phthalates have been linked to infertility, asthma and pregnancy complications. Studies have shown that using deodorant is associated with higher levels of phthalates in the urine of both men and women. While it’s not clear exactly what level is too high, you might want to choose an unscented deodorant or antiperspirant. This is because most fragrances contain phthalates, and they’re usually not listed separately.
What Are the Health Risks Associated With Phthalates?
Women's exposure to phthalates in relation to use of personal care products
Are Deodorants With Aluminum Bad for You, and Should You Switch to Natural?
Summary
The rabbit hole is deep when you begin looking into any big topic.
Today we discussed why we sweat, the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant, and the various chemicals found in both (which can be harmful but some are unclear to the extent). No matter what underarm product you use, we hope you are aware of the implications of each.
Keep an eye out for Part 2 where we talk about the lymphatic system, advantages of cream deodorants, and some helpful tips.
The Fine Print
Please note that we are not experts on these topics. We are basing our answers on research and personal experience. Any natural health product may cause serious adverse reactions or interactions with other medications or natural health products. Read the label, warnings and inserts provided by the manufacturer and consult your healthcare professional if you are unsure if a product is right for you. No health, wellness, prescription or pharmaceutical information is intended to substitute for the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a healthcare professional.