If you want a deodorant that will benefit your pits while having the least negative impact on the environment, you should be aware that not all deodorants are sustainable and eco-friendly.
For a more sustainable lifestyle, you should look for zero-waste products that contribute little or no waste to landfills.
If you're used to applying antiperspirant to your underarms, shifting to a natural deodorant may appear daunting at first. Not only should you take into account the heinous armpit detox period, but also find a zero waste deodorant that is organic, plastic-free, non-toxic, and wasn't examined on animals.
This article aids you in sorting out whether you should or should not switch to a natural deodorant.
Why Should You Switch from Antiperspirant?
You might have heard everything there is to know regarding aluminum and parabens in deodorant. Aluminum obstructs sweat glands, preventing your skin from sweating.
There will be no unpleasant smell if you do not sweat under your arms. Some folks, nevertheless, suspect that aluminum can cause cancer as well as Alzheimer's disease. There is as of now no conclusive evidence linking cancer and Alzheimer's disease to aluminum-based antiperspirants.
Parabens, on the other hand, could be more dangerous. Parabens are a type of preservative that is used to keep bacteria from growing on deodorant.
Unfortunately, these parabens can be absorbed through your skin. Once inside your body, they can mimic estrogen. Long-term estrogen exposure is linked to anything from an increased risk of breast cancer to a greater risk of having autistic offspring.
Furthermore, switching to the best natural deodorant should be motivated by more than just health concerns. Natural deodorants are also gentler on the skin, can prevent you from getting yellow sweat marks on your clothes, and may even help you sweat less.
What Does "Aluminum-free" Really Mean?
If you want to avoid aluminum for personal reasons, please remember that some natural deodorants that are using 'natural mineral salts' also contain it. Potassium alum and ammonium alum - both aluminum salts - are found in brands that sell natural personal care products.
These salts only deodorize and sit on the skin, whereas aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum zirconium are antiperspirant components that lock pores to stop sweating.
Some people prefer deodorants to antiperspirants since the former fights odor while still allowing sweat to escape. However, contrary to what some brands claim, this is not required for releasing toxins. The kidneys and liver take care of that.
Sweating is much more about appropriate temperature regulation than it is about detoxification.
Natural Deodorant Advantages
Fortunately, for those seeking to avoid chemical-laden deodorants, there are numerous other advantages to using a natural option. For one thing, aluminum coupled with sweat is what produces those unappealing yellow stains on your white shirt. So, you can say goodbye to these when you shift to a natural deodorant.
The same is true for underarm razor burn as well as irritated armpits — sweat accumulation beneath the skin can exacerbate these unpleasant side effects for some people.
Furthermore, sweating is beneficial to our bodies because it is one of the body's natural forms of releasing toxins and regulating body temperature.
Many even make claims about being ethical, sustainable, or eco-friendly, with plastic-free or recyclable/reusable packaging, organic or cruelty-free/vegan-friendly ingredients.
The majority of traditional deodorants come in plastic containers or as aerosol sprays. These can normally be recycled, but the plastics used differ from one commodity to the next. This means that some may not be welcomed by local recycling programs.
Aluminum spray cans frequently have plastic parts, such as lids and nozzles, that are more difficult to recycle, and aerosol sprays have their own environmental consequences.
Disadvantages of Natural Eco-friendly Deodorants
Natural and eco-friendly deodorants are typically more expensive than traditional antiperspirants. Some of these are intended to be applied with the fingers, and it's not always convenient.
Plus, they can be temperature-sensitive. Some paste formulas might naturally harden with cold and become soggier in warm weather, while some sticks may need to be chilled if it gets too hot. Because none of them are true antiperspirants, you'll have to make do with a certain level of wetness.
It's important to remember that even natural ingredients can induce skin problems. Bicarbonate of soda, for instance, can irritate the skin and end up causing itching, particularly if used after shaving. Also, some essential oils present in natural deodorants may cause skin irritation.
Is Natural Deodorant Better?
Both natural deodorant and antiperspirant have advantages and disadvantages. If you wish to mitigate exposing your body to harmful toxins, using a natural deodorant is definitely a superior choice for you, or at least for your peace of mind.
If you choose to use antiperspirant, make sure to keep an eye on all of the ingredients, as you may discover that attempting to prevent sweating underarms is not worth taking the risk that aluminum and parabens pose.
Adapt to Your Way of Life
You may still need the reassurance of antiperspirant for significant events or busy days, so don't feel obligated to stick to one or the other forever. Take extra precautions if you have sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin or shave your underarm hair, avoid products that include bicarbonate of soda or essential oils as they may cause irritation.
There are formulas available for sensitive skin. You may also want to try alternative hair-removal methods such as epilation or waxing, which may cause less irritation and last longer.