photo credit: How can I recycle this
It seems people are always looking for a better protecting deodorant or antiperspirant. Especially now with summer in its full and the extra amount of heat, which causes our bodies to sweat more than normally…
Well, if you’re one of the people who are concerned not only with limiting the sweat index but also preserving your health and the health of our planet, take some of these facts into consideration when shopping for a new deodorant:
- FDA does not require cosmetic products and ingredients to be approved before they are sold. As a result, many cosmetics are not tested at all! In fact, it has been revealed that 89% of ingredients in personal care products were not tested for its safety to humans by any governing agency.
- Many deodorants and antiperspirants may cause skin irritation and allergies due to harsh chemicals they use, such as aluminum, zirconium or zinc.
- The use of Triclosan, a common antibacterial agent used in deodorants (and other antibacterial products) has been linked to the rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria. It is also resistant to water treatments thus affecting the development of frogs and fish.
- Synthetic fragrances that are present in all cosmetics are a main cause of dermatitis. They also contain phthalates, which are hormone disruptors known to be a cause of numerous health problems, e.g. birth defects or reproductive issues.
- Parabens (which are common preservatives widely used in cosmetic industry) imitate estrogen and act like hormone disruptors when absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Some preservatives contain a known carcinogen and dangerous organic mix, formaldehyde.
- Many other synthetic ingredients found in both deodorants and antiperspirants, such as polyethylene, PEG (polyethylene glycol) composites and polysorbates , can become contaminated with 1,4 dioxane, which is a known carcinogen.
- Deodorants and antiperspirants in aerosol contain butane and propane, which are highly flammable agents. Furthermore, because of the spray form, it is easier to inhale the hazardous ingredients they are full of.
- All these chemicals are washed down the drain and enter the rivers and streams therefore interfering with the health of the aquatic life.
Hence, it seems the safer choice would be going for organic or natural personal care products. However, you should remember that some of them contain natural oil, such as eucalyptus, peppermint or wintergreen that may also be irritant to your skin.
