Humans are creatures of habit. Most of us hate change. We are so used to our schedules, the foods we eat, and the products we use. We have committed ourselves to certain products because we have used them all of our lives. Or perhaps the commercial had our favorite actor or musician advertising it.
Lately, there has been a huge move to organic products especially organic deodorant and natural antiperspirants. Before, you were considered a hippie or wild if you preferred organic deodorant over “conventional deodorants.” Why do we even use organic deodorant?
Is this organic trend out of control? Do organic deodorants and natural antiperspirants even work? Or do you smell and you do not even realize it?
Why Do We Need Deodorants & Antiperspirants?
Deodorants are used on the body to prevent and avoid body odor!
We use deodorant because we stink! Or because we don’t want to stink. The smelly smell we smell is bacteria which is caused by perspiration.
Common places for deodorant usage are armpits, feet, chest, and forehead! Deodorant and antiperspirants are different from one another. Antiperspirants are usually applied only on the armpits and underarm area.
The point of antiperspirants is to stop sweating and prevent odor. Antiperspirants are categorized by the FDA as Over the Counter Drugs while Deodorants are considered a cosmetics product. Deodorant has been around since the late 1800s.
The first deodorant was created in 1888. By 1903, the first antiperspirant was created and formulated. They created a new patent for this product because there was a previous issue with aluminum chlorides and extreme skin irritation in existing deodorants.
Interesting issues with aluminum! We will learn more about the dangers of aluminum later on…
Do Only Women Need Deodorant?
False! When deodorant was initially marketed, only women were focused on. It wasn’t until the 1940s that companies expanded their focus to include men and male users.
Studies show that over 50% of men were already using deodorant by this time. By the 1960s, aerosol antiperspirant became popular and over 50% of antiperspirants sold were aerosol.
By the 1970s, that number had increased to over 80%. However, in 1977 the US FDA banned aluminum zirconium which is the active ingredient used in aerosols. Their concern was inhaling the products over a long amount of time, like for example using an aerosol antiperspirant everyday for your entire life.
The EPA also limited chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) chemicals that are used in aerosols. These type of chemicals contribute to ozone depletion. There are many harmful ingredients that were and are in deodorant and antiperspirants now.
Why haven’t most of us made the switch? What is inside these products that are so dangerous?
Ingredients inside Common Deodorant
Please note that these are ingredients that are often found in common or commercial deodorants. These are not the ingredients found inside organic deodorants or natural deodorants. Most deodorants are alcohol based.
Fun fact: Alcohol actually stimulates and gets the sweating process started. It temporarily kills bacteria that is created by the sweat.
Alcohol based deodorants make you sweat so that it can eliminate the odor that happens when you sweat. This seems very odd and backwards to me…we put on deodorant and antiperspirant so that we do not sweat and smell.
Yet, common deodorants are triggering sweat and smell in order for it to work.
Active Ingredients include:
sodium stearate, sodium chloride, stearyl alcohol, acid, ammonium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, formaldehyde, aluminum chloride, aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly, aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly, zirconium, propylene glycol, potassium alum
The Dangers Inside Commercial Antiperspirant
There are many active ingredients that are in commercial and commonly known antiperspirants and deodorants. Active ingredients that are especially dangerous are aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum zirconium.
These ingredients are added into antiperspirants to stop you from sweating. They literally block your glands and prevent you from creating and secreting sweat. You may think that to not sweat and to not get sweaty is an incredible idea and a wonderful innovation. However, these active aluminum ingredients are linked to many dangers and gene instability/mutations.
There have been linked cases of breast cancer and Alzheimer’s. These dangers are not worth it!The risks attributed to using commercial antiperspirants and deodorants are not worth the health risks. But we still need deodorants and antiperspirants.
No one wants to be known as the smelly person at work or at school or in general! For too long organic deodorant, natural antiperspirant, and natural deodorant have gotten a bad reputation that they do not work as well. However, that is not true! There are many great organic products that work!
Do Organic Deodorants Even Work?
Finding the correct organic deodorant is just like finding a commercial, chemical filled deodorant. There is often much trial and error which results in some smelly days. It can be a very stinky situation for both you and others.
The point of using non toxic, organic deodorant is to eliminate the amount of harsh chemicals we expose ourselves too. The chemicals and toxins that are in many deodorants cause skin irritation and discomfort. The skin on our underarms is quite delicate and does require tender love and care. However, no one wants to be the smelly friend or risk being told that they do not smell fresh as a daisy.
There are many great organic and natural products available. These organic deodorants and natural antiperspirants actually work! They are the best organic deodorants available that are safe to use and are non toxic.
What Makes Organic Deodorant and Natural Deodorant Safer?
Where to start? First off, natural and organic deodorants are made with different types of ingredients. They are formulated without harsh and toxic chemicals.
They are also made with natural bacteria. It is important that when choosing an organic deodorant, natural deodorant, or natural antiperspirant, always make sure that they are formulated without the following:
- Parabens: Disrupts hormonal and endocrine system. It is linked to both breast and prostate cancer.
- Aluminum & Aluminum Compounds: Aluminum is the most commonly used active ingredient in deodorant and antiperspirants. Exposure to this dangerous ingredient includes Alzheimer’s disease, affects estrogen levels, and is linked to both breast and prostate cancer.
- Silica: A commonly known skin irritant, it causes allergic reactions. It is also linked to cancer.
- Triclosan: Labeled by the FDA as a pesticide! Yet, this is one of the main ingredients in most commonly known and commercial deodorants. When it is combined with water, it creates chloroform which is an extremely carcinogenic gas.
- Talc: There is a chance that talc can be contaminated with asbestos. These asbestos fibers cause cancer as well as respiratory issues.
- Propylene Glycol: This chemical causes central nervous system damage, also liver and heart damage. It is extremely irritating to the skin especially for those with sensitive skin. Unlike some ingredients that show dangers are high levels, only 2% of this ingredient can cause damage. However most commercial deodorants use around 50% propylene glycol. Studies have shown that this chemical can be very toxic for children. Link to study.
- Steareths: Produces carcinogens and dioxanes, dioxanes are flammable and toxic when heated.
- TEA (triethanolamine) & DEA (diethanolamine): These two chemicals are banned from European products. They are carcinogens that destroy your liver and kidneys.There are many things that they are made without to make them safer. The harmful ingredients listed above are known and suspected carcinogens. But what is inside these organic deodorant and natural deodorant products that make them work.
How Does Organic Deodorant Work?
We have learned how commercial antiperspirants work. They use active aluminum ingredients to block sweat from occurring. Natural and organic Deodorant work completely different. Natural and organic deodorant do not block sweat. Natural and organic deodorant actually kill and eliminate the bacteria. It is the bacteria that causes the smell. By neutralizing the bacteria, natural and organic deodorant products stop the odor from occurring. There are also natural, active ingredients in natural and organic deodorant that absorb the sweat. These ingredients absorb the excess sweat and wetness.These types of ingredients are: arrowroot, baking soda, kaolin clay, cornstarch. These are some of the best organic deodorant ingredients. There are many great organic deodorant ingredients you should look for now that you know what to avoid.
Organic Deodorant Ingredients You Should Look For:
When you are scrutinizing your deodorant labels, these are the ingredients you need to be looking for. We know what to avoid now…but what is the good stuff? We need to know what ingredients to look out for when choosing the best organic deodorant for our bodies.
Good Ingredients:
- Aluminum Free Baking Soda: Neutralizes odor and absorbs moisture! This is also known as sodium bicarbonate. Always use aluminum free baking soda. Baking soda can be too much for those with sensitive skin and may disrupt your PH. So please take note of that when deciding on a deodorant that uses baking soda.
- Kaolin Clay: Extremely absorbent! This clay absorbs moisture and has many detoxifying properties. This is safe on all skin types including sensitive skin.
- Arrowroot: Arrowroot powder is extremely absorbent, very similar to cornstarch. It thickens the formula of the deodorant in sticks and creams and also absorbs sweat.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is a strong antimicrobial and antibacterial. It is great on sensitive skin. It kills bacteria so you do not smell. It is also an anti-inflammatory
- Cornstarch: Similar to arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, and baking soda, it is used to absorb sweat. It is extremely absorbent and prevents you from smelling.There are so many benefits to using organic products and eating organic foods. These are facts. When we can, we need to make the switch to organic products. If you are curious about the benefits of using organic deodorant, keep reading.
Benefits of Using Organic Deodorant:
We know that deodorants with ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and aluminum are bad for us and quite harmful to our health. Many of the common ingredients that are used in commercially made deodorants are linked to cancer. Organic deodorants are safer to use and work just as effectively to prevent sweat and smell.
- Organic deodorants are made of natural ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, tea tree oil, rosemary, lavender, and lemongrass. These ingredients help you to stay fresh and also soothe and repair the skin. Many of these ingredients have natural anti-bacterial properties
- Organic deodorant is made without aluminum! Instead they use natural and safe ingredients like witch hazel which helps with body odor and smell because it kills bacteria
- Organic deodorant has no artificial ingredients and fragrances. Since they are made without harmful ingredients, they are safe for use on sensitive skin. They will not cause skin irritation or flair ups.
- Organic deodorant will not ruin your clothes! Too many shirts are ruined by non-organic and non-natural deodorants. Aluminum compounds create the yellow stains you see on your underarm area of your shirts.
Of course some products may work better for others, so it is important to know both sides.
Some Organic Deodorants and Natural Antiperspirants May Work Better For Others
It’s true. There are some products that will work better for some than others. It is important to be aware of your sensitivities. Also, some have more powerful body odor than others and could be left feeling stinky. Whenever you are trying new products, it is always best to them to see if you are sensitive to the ingredients.
There are some natural and organic deodorants that work better for some. It is due to the natural and organic active ingredients. At the end of the day, it is best to listen to your body and choose the right formulation that works for you without causing irritations.
An ingredient that may cause irritation is:
Baking Soda: This ingredient is a great deodorizer, meaning it prevents smell from occurring. However, it can be very powerful, almost too powerful. Those with delicate and sensitive skin may find it is to powerful for their underarm area.
The underarm has very delicate skin. If you notice any irritation, you may want to try a natural or organic deodorant that does not contain baking soda. Instead opt for an organic deodorant that has ingredients like kaolin clay or even cornstarch.
These ingredients absorb sweat like a natural, organic sponge! These ingredients will definitely feel nicer on the skin and will not be as harsh as baking soda.When choosing your next natural deodorant, always make sure to go with a deodorant without aluminum.
There are many great natural deodorants without aluminum that actually work and aren’t very expensive.
Best Deodorant for Women & Men
Everyone needs deodorant. We are all humans so the fact that commercial deodorants are created only for men and only for women are ridiculous.
We need deodorants that are safe to use and actually work without risk of causing harm. Aluminum free deodorant is the way to go.
This also makes it much easier to purchase because you only need one type of deodorant for your family. Of course, everyone needs their own, but it is quite unnecessary for deodorants to be made for a woman, but strong enough for a man. Sounds like nonsense to me! Deodorants should be safe, non toxic, and aluminum free. These are the best deodorants for both men and women.
Roll On Deodorant by Real Purity
==> Available on Amazon for $17! Free Shipping!
This is a roll-on natural deodorant. It is non GMO, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, and Vegan. Many users only use this once every few days! It is made in the USA and is made with essential oils. This is a great deodorant for both men and women. Real Purity is a great deodorant for sensitive skin. It goes on white and dries down clear. It is very quick drying and lasts all day long! It has no artificial fragrances and has a great, clean scent. It’s made with organic aloe and kosher vegetable glycerin which keeps the skin dry and healthy without causing allergic reactions. There is also lavender, apricot, and rosemary oils. This deodorant is a great choice if you get worried about smelling. It is also baking soda free.
Deodorant Stick by Meow Meow Tweet
==> Available on Amazon for $18! Free Shipping!
This is a baking soda free organic deodorant that is made for the sweaty folks! If you are a heavy sweater, check out this deodorant. It is made for those who are sensitive and have sensitive skin. They use food grade magnesium minerals to stop odor and neutralize the smell. It has certified organic ingredients like jojoba oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and arrowroot powder. It is labeled as a stick deodorant, but I definitely say it is more of a cream. It comes in two scents, lavender and grapefruit. I prefer the lavender, it is non irritating and smells very fresh. The formula of the baking soda free deodorant cream is never sticky. It is long lasting and doesn’t disrupt your natural PH. It is GMO free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Vegan, and Baking Soda Free. The packaging is also biodegradable! Of course there are no aluminums, parabens or sulfates.
USDA Organic Deodorant by Sky Organics
==> Available on Amazon for $13! Free Shipping!,
this deodorant is a steal! This is a deodorant that is marketed to men but can be used for both men and women. It is USDA organic and an all natural deodorant and antiperspirant. Sky Organics is non GMO, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, and Vegan. Sky Organics is made with essential oils like cedarwood and sage. It controls bacteria and smell with coconut oil, arrowroot, shea butter, and baking soda. This is a 100% Natural, Organic Deodorant what has no aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and no soy. It is BPA free. It is formulated with organic coconut oil, organic shea, and organic carnauba wax.
It is ideal for those with sensitive skin. The natural ingredients nourish and keep the skin safe. This organic deodorant works for 24 hours! Sky Organics is a stick deodorant. Even though it is labeled for men, it is a great deodorant for all! Both men and women can use this deodorant.These deodorants are perfect for use on both men and women. They are safe to use and actually work. They are full of safe, organic ingredients and they will not stain our clothing yellow like the deodorants we were used to. These are great options and some of the best organic deodorants available. The above mentioned deodorants are safe to use on kids too. But if you want a deodorant for kids that is made for kids, there is an alternative!
Best Organic Deodorant for Kids
One organic deodorant comes to mind when thinking of the best organic deodorant for kids. This product is made specifically with kids in mind. It is natural, long lasting, and organic!
Cream Deodorant for Kids by Truly’s Natural Products
==> Available on Amazon for 8.99! Free Shipping!
Truly’s has created a deodorant for kids that is safe and long lasting. It is made with organic coconut oil, organic powdered sugar, baking soda, and beeswax. It is GMO free and does not mess up your white clothing! It is chemical free, fragrance free, aluminum free, propylene glycol free, and paraben free. It is a cream deodorant that doesn’t sting. This long lasting deodorant is also edible! Not recommended, but it is safe enough to eat. It has antimicrobial benefits from the coconut oil and keeps your child fresh all day.
Secret is Out: Time for Organic Deodorant and Natural Antiperspirant Or Maybe Nothing At All….
We have to start reaching for natural deodorants that are made without aluminum and aluminum compounds. There are some individuals out there that do not even need deodorant but only use it because we have been programmed to feel like if we don’t use deodorants, we will smell.
Often commercial deodorant creates stains on your favorite white shirts, transfers on your clothing when you get dressed, and often doesn’t even work. There are great, affordable, and safe organic and natural deodorants that are non toxic and will not ruin your clothing.
Also, if you are one of those rare folks that feel that you do not need to use deodorant..then don’t!Never do anything you do not want to do. Also never feel pressured into purchasing a product because society has conditioned you to feel the need to buy it. There are some out there that do not have body odor and do not need deodorant. They just don’t get sweaty and do not smell. If you are one of those people, I say don’t use any deodorant at all! Live in your natural scent and musk!
==> If you’re interested in natural sunscreen click here for a full article!
