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The harm of aerosol deodorants. Substances in deodorants that can be harmful to health. Deodorants without aluminum

Consider critically the composition of what a “caring” manufacturer has to offer us and the available, healthier alternatives.
At the very end of the article there will be a link to a review of INEXPENSIVE HAND-HAND MEANS that are MORE EFFECTIVE than PURCHASED!
In the comments, you can supplement, swear, argue.

In summer, we sweat intensely, and an unpleasant smell usually causes a lot of trouble: self-doubt, nervousness, a feeling of discomfort when dealing with people closely.

WHERE THE POT COMES FROM. Sweat glands are located in the middle layer of the skin - the dermis. The ducts of the sweat glands open on the surface of the skin and secrete a special secret - sweat. Sweat is water-based, but it contains a lot of salts and simple metabolic products. At first glance, all sweat glands are the same. But for a specialist, this is not the case. Most sweat glands (about 75%) regulate body temperature: when water evaporates, the surface of the skin cools, so sweating protects us from overheating. The activity of these sweat glands is regulated by the so-called autonomic nervous system, it works even in an unconscious state and controls vital functions.

The remaining 25% of sweat glands, in addition to sweat, secrete special substances, pheromones. It is they who are called upon to evoke sympathy between a man and a woman. The activity of these sweat glands is regulated by hormones.

It is interesting to note that the location of the sweat glands on the surface of the body is not uniform. Sweat glands are found in abundance on the forehead, in the armpits, on the palms, and on the feet. Sweat glands that secrete pheromones are located around the mammary glands, between the buttocks, slightly behind the ears and around the eyes.

REASONS OF THE ODOR. Sweat itself is practically odorless (unless you overuse garlic, alcohol, spices). But the presence of sweat on the surface of the skin triggers the formation of odor. The fact is that sweat softens keratin, a protein that is rich in the upper stratum corneum of the skin. In this state, keratin serves as an excellent breeding ground for bacteria to multiply. The waste products of these microorganisms have an unpleasant odor.

Once science found the cause of the odor, cosmetics companies began looking for ways to prevent it. First, there were deodorants with a strong odor and simply “knocking down” the smell of sweat. Subsequently, they began to use antibacterial components in the composition of deodorants. However, the protective microorganisms necessary for our skin suffer, and bacteria that cause odor become resistant. Today, one of the most effective methods of combating unpleasant odor is the use of antiperspirants.

Potential Harm of Antiperspirants

Antiperspirants suppress perspiration. The active substance in most cases is aluminum hydrochloride(it makes up to 20% of the volume of the bottle). At a low acidic pH (which all antiperspirants have), aluminum hydrochloride is liquid. On contact with sweat, the pH of the antiperspirant rises, hardening the aluminum hydrochloride and blocking the sweat glands. As a result, sweat production decreases several times.

However, recent scientific research has linked the use of aluminum salts with the development of senile dementia, impaired renal function and even cancer.

The relationship between the use of antiperspirants and the listed violations has not been proven unequivocally, however, constant contact with aluminum salts can be attributed to a risk factor. Therefore, in Western countries (USA, Canada), instead of aluminum salts, complexes with zirconium metal began to be used. While they are considered safer, it is possible that future research will also show the negative effects of new antiperspirants on the human body.

Warnings notwithstanding, antiperspirants make up the lion's share of odor control products. Even companies that specialize in the production of cosmetics with a high content of natural ingredients include aluminum and zirconium salts in their deodorants.

A small group of deodorants (non-antiperspirants that do not block perspiration) are alcohol-based products (up to 40% of the volume of the bottle). They do not contain aluminum and zirconium compounds, but simply give the skin a pleasant scent. In most cases, this is due to the introduction of synthetic fragrances into the formulation. Only a few deodorants are made with aromatic and antibacterial essential oils (lavender, lemon, sage).

SOME INGREDIENTS OF DEODORANTS. To navigate the world of deodorants, you need to know the main ingredients and their purpose.

  • Aluminum hydrochloride(aluminum chlorhydrate) blocks perspiration.
  • Zirconium and aluminum tetrachlorohydrate(aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex) blocks perspiration.
  • Alcohol (alcohol) serves as a solvent for some ingredients, provides quick drying of the deodorant on the surface of the skin.
  • Cyclopentasiloxane(cyclopentasiloxane) makes the stick deodorant silky and smooth.
  • Silicones (dimethicone, cyclomethicone) provide easy application to the skin, helping to evenly distribute and hold the deodorant on the skin.
  • Stearyl alcohol(stearyl alcohol) hardens deodorant sticks.
  • Hydrogenated castor oil(hydrogenated castor oil) makes the deodorant homogeneous, keeps all the components in a mixed state.
  • Fragrance gives the deodorant a scent. Nowadays many companies produce “disinfectants” without fragrances, as the latter lead to skin inflammation, irritation, and allergies. In addition, the perception of smell is very individual, it is difficult to create a fragrance that everyone will like.

WHAT IS HYPERHYDROSIS. If antiperspirants don't help, and the situation gets out of control, then you are faced with increased activity of the sweat glands. This condition in medicine is called hyperhidrosis (from hyper- a lot and hydros- water release). According to statistics, about 3% of people suffer from hyperhidrosis. In addition to aesthetic discomfort, hyperhidrosis can be a warning sign of certain diseases. For example, an overactive thyroid gland, diabetes, brain tumors, tuberculosis, and chronic infections. If you experience unusually heavy sweating, see your doctor.

If hyperhidrosis is not associated with more serious disorders and diseases, then cosmetic and even surgical methods are used to correct it. To accurately identify areas of the skin with increased sweating, the attending physician conducts a special mapping. After that, areas of the skin with a high density of sweat glands (these are primarily the armpits) are removed. The experience of using botulinum toxin and its derivatives for the correction of hyperhidrosis has been successful (used in almost 30% of cases). Botulinum toxin blocks the transmission of nerve impulses from nerve fibers to the sweat glands and thereby eliminates the activating signal for sweating. There are pharmaceuticals (tablets) that suppress the nervous activation of the sweat glands. True, with this method of correction, many side symptoms appear (dry mouth, blurred vision). If these pathways are ineffective, then it is possible to perform a surgical operation with incision of the nerves leading to the places of greatest accumulation of sweat glands.

Northwestern University physician Chris McGrath also conducted a series of studies in which he tried to find out between the use of antiperspirant deodorants and the possible harm they can cause to the human body. Specifically, Dr. McGrath looked at the link between antiperspirants and breast cancer in women.

According to his research, most women who have used antiperspirants from a young age have breast cancer diagnosed at a fairly early age. Of course, this data is a tiny percentage of the research, but Dr. McGrath believes there is certainly a link between antiperspirant use and breast cancer.

It is worth noting that today the connection between commercial antiperspirant deodorants and the development of cancerous tumors has not yet been proven. However, doctors advise against using these funds on an ongoing basis. According to them, antiperspirants should only be used when absolutely necessary.

Sources:

  • Why is it dangerous NOT to sweat?

For fitness, you should choose special ones. They should help prevent unpleasant odors, but at the same time not interfere with perspiration.

Choosing a deodorant for sports

The modern perfumery and cosmetic industry produces a huge amount of deodorants and antiperspirants. Not all of these products are suitable for sports. Before going to the gym, you need to choose the right deodorant in all respects and use it before training.

Antiperspirant deodorants are absolutely not suitable for fitness activities. These products contain substances that clog the pores, which ultimately make it difficult to sweat. This is unacceptable during exercise. Sweat helps to cool the body during physical activity and its release leads to the launch of thermoregulatory mechanisms. Together with sweat, toxins and toxins are released from the body. Antiperspirants block sweating, while disrupting the flow of natural processes.

For the gym, you should select deodorants, the principle of which is based on the presence of substances with antimicrobial properties in their composition. This allows the skin to stay clean and fresh for longer. The presence of anti-inflammatory and wound-healing components in the composition makes the deodorant even more effective.

For fitness activities, it is advisable to choose deodorants that are odorless or with a very light fresh scent. Too active perfume will be unnecessarily intrusive. Their heavy aroma can provoke allergies and dislike others.

People with sensitive skin should choose hypoallergenic deodorants designed to care for delicate skin.

Release form and composition of deodorants

When choosing a deodorant in a store, you need to carefully study the composition of each product. Preference should be given to those cosmetic products that do not contain alcohol and aluminum salts. These substances are quite harmful and can cause allergic reactions.

Some manufacturers of perfumery and cosmetic products produce deodorants designed specifically for fitness activities, as well as for those people who lead a very active lifestyle. By purchasing such funds, you can be sure that they meet all of the above requirements.

For sports, it is better to buy deodorants in the form of deo-gel, deo-stick, deo-cream. Aerosols are considered less effective and may not be suitable for people with an active lifestyle.

Related Videos

A huge number of people are worried about the problem of increased sweating, especially in the hot season. Wet spots, yellow stains on clothes and an unpleasant smell of sweat from the armpits cause a lot of inconvenience to business people. So how do you get rid of excess underarm sweating?

You will need

  • - Boric acid, alum or resorcinol solution;
  • - St. John's wort, lemon balm, mint, valerian rhizome, motherwort;
  • - pine needles;
  • - antiperspirant,
  • - talcum powder or powder.

Instructions

Sweating can be increased by synthetic fabrics, which do not allow the passage of spicy food, as well as active physical movements. Heat in itself is a powerful provoking factor. First, pay special attention to personal hygiene: be sure to shower at least twice a day and wipe your armpits dry. A prerequisite is also the removal of vegetation with a razor in

Unfortunately, few people think that deodorants, which are now stuffed with the shelves of all stores, and which are so actively promoted to us from TV screens, cause us great harm.

  • They are one of the main causes of breast cancer.

A recent study by British scientists from the University of Reading showed that deodorants and antiperspirants can cause breast cancer (breast cancer). Experts studied about 20 different samples of breast cancer (breast cancer) and found that they accumulate parabens, which are found in antiperspirants and deodorants, with an average concentration of 20.6 nanograms per gram of tissue. At the same time, these chemical compounds were presented in a form that can penetrate exclusively through the skin (for example, during the use of a deodorant or antiperspirant).

Also, scientists noted that parabens are similar in their effects to female sex hormones. Perhaps this is the reason why they can provoke an accelerated growth of breast cancer (breast cancer). As it turned out, the skin of the armpits, especially after shaving, actively absorbs aluminum - the main active ingredient in antiperspirants. Once in the body, this substance mimics the action of the hormone estrogen, which contributes to the malignant transformation of breast cells.

In his book Living Green, Greg Horn conducts a little experiment: rub the sole of your feet with a clove of garlic cut in half. After a few minutes, you will feel the taste of garlic in your mouth. Our skin absorbs the product applied to it, so we must be well aware of the properties of any product and apply it with care.

  • Antiperspirants block sweating.

Unlike deodorants, which simply drown out the smell of sweat, antiperspirants prevent perspiration. Compounds of aluminum and zinc, which are part of them, close the sebaceous glands. In this case, sweat is produced, but does not get to the surface of the skin. It is clear that it is not useful to "lock up" the sweat, with which toxic substances are excreted from the body, because this is how our body cleans itself. And we do not let him do it. And then we wonder why we started to get sick more ..

  • Aluminum is harmful to the human brain.

Aluminum is found in some elderly people with memory loss, distraction or dementia and can lead to personality degradation. In studies, aluminum is associated with brain lesions characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (an increased content of aluminum is observed in the hair of patients).

  • The main ingredients found in antiperspirants are preservatives: parabens, propylene glycol, which damage cell membranes through the skin, causing rashes and itching,

How else does aluminum affect the human body:

Aluminum has the ability to accumulate in the body, causing a number of serious diseases. Doctors are discovering more and more negative consequences of contact with him. It was found that aluminum has a negative effect on metabolism, especially mineral, on the function of the nervous system, affects the reproduction and growth of cells. The most important clinical manifestations of neurotoxic action include impaired motor activity, seizures, decreased or loss of memory, psychopathic reactions. An excess of aluminum salts reduces calcium retention in the body, reduces the adsorption of phosphorus, while the aluminum content in bones, liver, testes, brain and parathyroid gland increases by 10-20 times. An excess of aluminum inhibits the synthesis of hemoglobin, causes dental fluorosis and specific damage to bones (bone fluorosis); can cause or intensify bone growth.

Aluminum also inhibits the absorption of many bioelements and vitamins (such as calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamin B6, ascorbic acid) and sulfur-containing amino acids. There is evidence of mutagenic activity of aluminum.

And here are excerpts from the article by S.V. Moiseev, from the Moscow Medical University. IM Sechenov on the effect of aluminum on the human body.

The role of aluminum in the development of Alzheimer's disease is of great interest to researchers. Nine of the 13 epidemiological studies found an association between the consumption of aluminum in drinking water and the development of dementia. There are reports of an increase in the concentration of aluminum in neurofibrillary plexuses and senile plaques, as well as in brain tissue in patients with Alzheimer's dementia. Moreover, in animal experiments with the use of aluminum preparations, it was possible to induce the development of various pathological changes and clinical symptoms similar to those in dementia of the Alzheimer's type.

Aluminum and pregnancy

Animal studies indicate that aluminum crosses the placenta and accumulates in fetal tissues, causing various developmental disorders, including in utero death, malformations, delayed skeletal ossification, and growth and developmental retardation. The possibility of aluminum intoxication with its oral administration largely depends on the bioavailability of the drug used and the presence in food of other substances that enhance the absorption of aluminum.

In many European countries, there are certain restrictions on the use of aluminum-containing antacids in pregnant and lactating women. For example, in Austria, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland, leaflets for such products indicate that they should be used during pregnancy and lactation only on the recommendation of a doctor or pharmacist. The most complete information on the possible undesirable properties of aluminum is contained in the instructions that are registered in Germany:

* "The simultaneous use of drugs with drinks containing acids, such as fruit juice or wine, leads to an undesirable increase in the absorption of aluminum in the intestine."
* “To avoid intoxication with aluminum in a child, during pregnancy, the drug can be taken only for a short period. Aluminum salts pass into breast milk. "

Unfortunately, in addition to deodorants and antiperspirants, aluminum is found today in so many of these familiar care products - toothpastes (aluminum lactate, this is even emphasized in advertising), creams, ointments, carcasses, lipstick, it is also found in some medicines , and in large quantities in the dishes. Yes, yes, in the same aluminum dish. But this is a separate topic.

"Aluminum medicines" deserve a special talk. Aluminum hydroxides are a constituent of the main vaccines. A group of Western scientists has proven that after them immunity is greatly reduced, and children can develop allergies to literally everything.

Advertising has such a property of “forcing” us what we do not need, firmly driving the thought into our heads that we cannot live without this. Meanwhile, there is a completely harmless and simple alternative to antiperspirants.

By the way, the sweat of a healthy person is 90% water and odorless. He begins to actively "smell" under the influence of microorganisms that live in the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands, as well as in case of improper nutrition (especially contributes to the unpleasant smell of eating meat - all vegetarians note a sharp decrease or almost disappearance of the smell of sweat). If you take a shower in the morning and evening, and during the day use napkins as an emergency aid for wet areas, then even in summer you can live without deodorants and antiperspirants.

How to reduce or eliminate sweat odor

✔ baking soda
Dip damp fingers or cotton swab in baking soda and apply to underarms. The perspiration will remain, but the sweat odor will disappear. In the hot season, you can repeat this procedure 3 r. in a day. (it is better not to apply soda immediately after shaving the armpits, as it can irritate small cracks and cuts)

✔ oak bark
Prepare a decoction of oak bark - 1 tbsp. in a glass of water. Wipe clean armpits with a cotton swab dipped in broth.

✔ apple cider vinegar (natural, homemade - not purchased!)

✔ rock salt.
It is very effective in eliminating the smell of sweat for the whole day, and you can buy rock salt both in its usual form and in flavored salt. Rock salt contains natural aluminum compounds that kill bacteria in the armpits. Just grease them on the armpits and that's it.

Sweating is also reduced baths with additives :

  1. baking soda (3 tablespoons per bath)
  2. 6% vinegar (200 ml per bath)
  3. with herbal infusions - from oak bark, oregano, thyme, mint, St. John's wort. To prepare such an infusion, 2 tbsp. Spoons of herbs are poured with a liter of cold water, brought to a boil, kept on fire for 30 minutes, insisted for an hour, filtered and added to the bath.

And getting rid of the unpleasant smell of sweat will help you herbal deodorant :

  • 100 ml apple cider vinegar
  • 100 ml distilled or boiled water
  • 3 tablespoons dried herbs or flower petals of your choice
  • 85 ml rose water.

1. Heat the apple cider vinegar and water in a saucepan.
2. Place herbs or flower petals in a fireproof bowl and cover with heated liquid. Insist 15-20 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid into a bottle, then add rose water. Shake to mix everything. Store in a cool dry place. The deodorant is ready in a few days. Change the herbal mix from time to time to prevent bacteria from developing immunity to deodorant.
Product yield 300 ml

Well, and also, of course, you need to try to eat healthier - do not eat meat, because it most heavily loads our body and makes it more and more to get rid of the introduced toxins and toxins; as well as preservatives and chemicals that are teeming with modern industry.
After cleansing procedures (for example, fasting), the body is also cleansed, and the odors emitted by the body become much less unpleasant.

To be dry, you do not need to walk with a towel and dry yourself, but just take an umbrella. And in order to be healthy, you do not need to stuff yourself with pills and chemistry, but simply live correctly and harmoniously, live in love and kindness, eat right and sleep on time.
An excerpt from the book by Boris Svetlov "Dream World: Notes of a Wanderer"

There are about 2.5 million sweat glands on the human body, which are involved in thermoregulation of the body. They also help remove harmful substances, heavy metals and drugs from the skin. It is these glands that are responsible for the specific body odor. The smell of sweat itself, provided that the person is healthy, is practically indistinguishable, and becomes characteristic and unpleasant only as a result of the multiplication of bacteria. Whatever people have come up with to combat the smell of sweat. The Egyptians and ancient Greeks used aromatic oils in the armpit area. In France, for example, sponges soaked in perfume were attached under clothes. There were even special armpit pads with herbs and perfumes on sale in Paris. At the end of the 19th century in the United States, to combat the unpleasant odor of sweat, scientists invented deodorants and antiperspirants.

The first patents for such products were filed in 1860, when entrepreneurs were looking for the use of disinfecting agents open at that time, such as ammonium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and formaldehyde.

In 1888, the first antiperspirant deodorant Mum was launched. Zinc oxide was used as an ingredient for suppressing perspiration. This component is still often found in cosmetics. The first antiperspirant to contain hazardous aluminum salts was Everdry. It has been produced in the USA since 1903. The active ingredient in Everdry was aluminum chloride, which is known to aggregate in the sweat glands and block their secretion.

In the following century, manufacturers used aluminum formate, aluminum hydrochloride and aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrate for the production of antiperspirants.

The composition, properties and even the state of aggregation of deodorants and antiperspirants have evolved since their inception. In the 1940s, roll-on deodorants similar to a ballpoint pen were invented. Sticks, gels and aerosols appeared in the coming decades after that. Today, 90% of the world's population aged 16-60 use them to reduce sweating and eliminate the smell of sweat. Such products can be divided into 3 groups:

  1. Deodorant.
  2. Antiperspirant in the form of a stick, gel, deodorant (antiperspirant deodorant) cream, roller.
  3. Pharmacological agents based on formaldehyde for the complete blocking of perspiration (used only in the treatment of hyperhidrosis).

Is there a difference between deodorant and antiperspirant?

The table shows that deodorants differ significantly from antiperspirants. And you need to use these products with great care. In terms of their composition, the safest are deodorants that do not contain hazardous aluminum salts.

Here are the simplest rules for using deodorants and antiperspirants.

  1. Deodorants and antiperspirants should only be applied to clean, wiped dry skin.
  2. Be sure to rinse them off thoroughly at the end of the day.
  3. Do not use antiperspirant on irritated or shaved skin.
  4. Use an antiperspirant only when absolutely necessary.
  5. It is highly undesirable to use an antiperspirant before playing sports and physical activity, since the thermoregulation of the body will be disturbed.
  6. Look for deodorants and antiperspirants with a short shelf life, and they contain fewer preservatives.

Beginning in the 1970s, some researchers began to fear that aluminum in antiperspirants and antiperspirant deodorants could lead to Alzheimer's and other dangerous diseases. A lot of works have appeared on this issue.

Today, the problem of the negative impact of harmful substances contained in antiperspirants on the human body and the environment has become global. In addition, leading scientists and doctors around the world are working on the issue of obtaining safe antibacterial ingredients for the production of antiperspirants.

What is the danger to human health is the use of an antiperspirant containing aluminum salts

Aluminum salts such as aluminum hydrochloride (ACH) are the active ingredients of antiperspirants (Al 2 (OH) 5 Cl * 2H 2 O).

The mechanism of action of these components is that the hydrochloride is deposited inside the sweat glands, where it is converted into aluminum hydroxide. It, in turn, clogs the gland and blocks the secretion of sweat.

Twenty years ago, scientific journals first reported that high concentrations of aluminum in the skin could lead to anemia, bone disease, and dementia in patients with impaired kidney function (A.C. Alfrey, Drug Monit. 1993, 593-597).

The toxic role of this metal in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis has been shown by Dr. Exley et al.

Aluminum belongs to the so-called metalloestrogens, that is, substances that can mimic estrogen and affect the expression of genes that respond to estrogen.

In 2005, she published an article on the effect of antiperspirants on the human body. The article was written by Dr. Philip Darbre, whose work in the field of hazard has been discussed earlier. Darbre has shown that aluminum in the form of aluminum chloride or aluminum hydrochloride (ACH) negatively affects the function of the MCF7 estrogen receptors in the human breast, which can lead to cancer.

Indeed, Dr. Exley et al., (C. Exley, L. Barr, A., PD Darbre, J. Inorg. Biochem. 2007, p. 1334) after biopsy of 17 patients with breast tumor, confirmed a higher content of compounds aluminum in the upper chest area (in the armpit, where the antiperspirant concentration is maximum).

Experiments carried out on mice in 1995 (R. Anane, M. Bonini, J.M. Grafeille, E.E. Creppy, Arch. Toxicol.v. 69.1995, p.568) show that aluminum salts are very well absorbed by the skin of mice. Of course, the mouse epidermis is composed of 2-3 layers, as opposed to 20 layers of human skin. However, in the American Journal of Medicine, the scientist Guillard (O. Guillard, Am. J. Med. V. 117, 2004, p. 956–959) published an article on the absorption of aluminum salts by the skin of the armpits when using an antiperspirant. A female volunteer was tested for aluminum levels in her blood. Its toxic level was approximately 4 microns in blood plasma with a norm of 0.1-0.3 microns. Only 4 years after stopping the use of the antiperspirant, the level of aluminum in the blood and urine of the patient returned to normal values.

In response to these alarming reports, the French Ministry of Health, together with the French Federation of Beauty (FEBEA), in 2012 initiated a serious study of the effects of aluminum compounds contained in antiperspirants on the human body.

The assay included measuring the absorption of aluminum by the human epidermis when using antiperspirants. As a device for measuring the absorption of aluminum and controlling the distribution of aluminum hydrochloride, a Franz diffusion cell system (inventor American Dr. T. J. Franz) was used.

The cell consists of a sample chamber with a test product and a skin membrane, the inner part of which is in contact with the test medium. For uniform mixing of the substance, a magnetic stirrer is used.

This system has already been successfully used to study the absorption of medicinal ointments or gels on human skin.

Three antiperspirants were the cosmetic basis for the analyzes:

  • « Aerosol "(38.5% aluminum hydrochloride)
  • "Roll-emulsion" (14.5% aluminum hydrochloride)
  • "Stick" (21.2% of aluminum hydrochloride).

The age range of the volunteer skin cell donors was 29 to 52 years. (In vitro study of percutaneous absorption of aluminum from antiperspirants through human skin in the Franz diffusion cell Alain Pineau, 2012, P.21-26)

In order to make the results of these studies more understandable, let us recall the structure of human skin.

Human skin structure

Human skin consists of the following layers:

  1. The upper one is the stratum corneum or epidermis, which is constantly peeled off in the process of life, we may not even notice it.
  2. The dermis, which is made up of fibers and capillaries, is the skin support frame containing collagen and elastin.
  3. The subcutaneous fat layer (hypodermis) is the lower loose connective tissue that connects the dermis on one side and internal organs on the other.

A study by the French Ministry of Health shows significant differences in the aluminum content of skin layers when using an aerosol, roll-on emulsion or stick.

The aluminum concentration in the skin sample without antiperspirant was 0.23 μg / cm 2.

The total amount of aluminum deposited on the skin for the entire time of research:

  • antiperspirant - stick 6.14 μg / cm 2
  • antiperspirant aerosol 5.75 μg / cm 2
  • antiperspirant roller 2.69 μg / cm 2

The results show that in terms of aluminum absorption, the antiperspirant roller is the safest.

It also follows from the article that after using the antiperspirant stick, the amount of hydrochloride in the dermis and fat cells was significantly higher compared to using the antiperspirant aerosol.

Consequently, the rate of absorption or absorption of aluminum with the use of an antiperspirant stick is the highest, and it is the most dangerous in the line of products. And this is despite the fact that the content of dangerous aluminum salts in the stick is almost two times less than in the deodorant. Thus, the process of absorption of aluminum by human skin is primarily affected by the state of aggregation of the antiperspirant.

When analyzing various layers of the skin, it was also found that the stratum corneum contains the highest concentration of aluminum.

Physiologically, this means that this layer delays the transfer of a dangerous substance to the further layer of the dermis due to natural desquamation, that is, peeling and falling off of the upper layer of the skin.

On the other hand, a change in the stratum corneum (desquamation) also suppresses its protective functions, thereby worsening the retention of aluminum. At the level of the epidermis and dermis, aluminum salts inside the sweat glands precipitate with the formation of dangerous insoluble aluminum hydroxide, which then begins to move in the circulatory system throughout the body.

The rate of transfer of aluminum salts is influenced by many parameters, for example, body temperature, pH, thickness of the skin layer, etc. There is a known clinical case described by Guillard for a woman with hyperaluminaemia.

She used an antiperspirant stick every morning for four years. At the same time, the woman daily removed hair in the armpit area with a razor. The study showed an aluminum concentration in her blood plasma of 4 μm (with a norm of 0.37 μm) and a urinary concentration of 1.71 μm / h24 (normal values ​​of 1.10 μm / 24h). Using optical coherence tomography, scientist Turner et al. Have shown that shaving the armpits removes the upper stratum corneum of the skin and thereby increases the permeability of dangerous antiperspirants containing aluminum salts into the blood.

In a French study, volunteers using a shaving razor were also taken to injure the skin and increase the risk of aluminum penetrating the deeper layers of the epidermis and blood.

Analyzes have shown that the amount of aluminum in their stratum corneum is insignificant, since it immediately diffuses into the deeper layers of the epidermis and dermis.

When using a razor and antiperspirant stick, the total concentration of aluminum salt in the skin was 11.43 μg / cm 2, which is almost twice the level of a hazardous substance for intact skin.

Findings from a study by the French Ministry of Health:

  1. Thus, the most dangerous in terms of the rate of absorption of aluminum salts is an antiperspirant stick.
  2. The second most harmful is an aerosol antiperspirant.
  3. The safest is the roller deodorant.
  4. It is especially harmful to health to use an aerosol and a stick on skin damaged by shaving, since aluminum hydrochloride is very quickly absorbed into the dermis and penetrates into the blood.

Is there an alternative to antiperspirants?

What can replace antiperspirant bottles with?

Today, there are already companies that produce deodorants that do not contain aluminum salts. However, they often contain even more dangerous substances in their composition, for example, high concentrations of harmful parabens, hormones, bisphenols, ethers. Therefore, carefully read the composition written on the cosmetic packaging.

Recently, a discovery has been published that can replace aluminum-based components in antiperspirants. Scientists from Iran tested the antimicrobial effect of various sage extracts against two of the main bacteria responsible for sweat odor in a test tube. And then 45 healthy female volunteers evaluated the effect of a trial silicon-based antiperspirant containing such sage extracts. It turned out that its action lasts for 8 hours, and a small concentration of the antimicrobial component is required for a good effect. (J. of research in medical sciences, 18, P. 833-839). The development and successful testing of this antiperspirant proves once again that natural and natural oils and extracts can replace hazardous components in any cosmetics. Already today, as a good deodorant that can stop the growth of bacteria that cause odor, you can use (fir, tea tree, mint, eucalyptus, lavender). When buying such oil, you should pay attention to its shelf life. In addition, there are recipes for homemade antiperspirants. They stop the growth of bacteria that cause unpleasant sweat odors. The disadvantage of these antiperspirants is the shelf life, which is 2-3 months if stored in the refrigerator.

Homemade antiperspirant recipe

To make a homemade antiperspirant stick, you will need:
60 g shea butter or corn butter (3 tablespoons)
40 g cocoa butter (2 tablespoons)

3 tbsp. spoons of baking soda
2 tbsp. tablespoons of cornstarch
1 capsule of vitamin E in oil (available at the pharmacy)

teaspoon of glycerin
any essential oil

  1. First mix the baking soda, starch and vitamin E in a ceramic bowl.
  2. Then melt the shea butter and cocoa butter in a water bath, and add them to the first mixture, as well as the essential oil and glycerin.
  3. Stir the mixture well.
  4. Pour the finished stick into a deodorant container or glass cup with a lid.
  5. Store the finished stick in the refrigerator for 3 months.

Benefits of using a home antiperspirant:

  • Lack of dangerous aluminum salts and parabens.
  • Valid for 8 hours.
  • Does not cause allergies and irritations.

However, this antiperspirant can stain clothing.

Instead of a conclusion or what else can you replace antiperspirants and deodorants?

Of course, if a person is going to "go out", it is difficult not to use a factory antiperspirant or deodorant. So firmly in our heads is the association of the smell of sweat with the image of an unpleasant pig or worse, born of numerous advertisements. However, for those who lead a home lifestyle, we recommend not to use these funds all the time.

The sweat glands of a person gradually get used to the means that block their work. They are trying hard to fulfill the function laid down by nature. That is why you have probably noticed that over time, even an antiperspirant that “worked” flawlessly lasts only half a day instead of the 48 hours it should have.

Resting your armpits from harsh chemicals can have significant health benefits. Any oncologist can tell anyone interested what role antiperspirants and deodorants play in the development of breast cancer. By the way, for those who underwent a mastectomy (breast removal) operation due to a cancerous tumor, doctors strongly recommend not to use these means.

You can always find a replacement product for a chemical deodorant. Essential oils help many. High quality 100% essential oils will not leave marks on clothes as they completely evaporate. It is more difficult with their use for those suffering from allergies and bronchial asthma. But in this case, you can pick up the essential oil that will not cause an exacerbation of the disease. You can mix a few drops of essential oil with rubbing alcohol.

For some people, simply sprinkling baking soda on their armpits helps. Antiseptic herbal tinctures can completely replace deodorants and antiperspirants. You can experiment which composition is right for your skin.

However, in the early stages of the transition from aggressive antiperspirant to safe substitutes, it will be difficult to determine which one will work. It is necessary to stop using a store-bought product, replacing it with natural odor-masking products and wait until the sweat glands "understand" that the attack on their work has been reduced. A perfect vacation time for that.

If before a person was helped to cope with the smell of sweat only an antiperspirant for 48 hours, then he is unlikely to like the effect of an ordinary deodorant that does not affect the work of the sweat glands. When switching to less aggressive and natural remedies for sweat, it is notable that there is no need to use an antiperspirant. The smell of sweat after the "adaptation period" of the sweat glands will be defeated by the simplest deodorant.

We remind you that from the point of view of health safety, you can use antiperspirants only in exceptional cases (ideally, remove these funds altogether). Therefore, if you care about your health and are thinking of buying a deodorant, then buy a deodorant, not an antiperspirant. But sometimes it is better for deodorants to stand idle, let them be replaced by simpler and safer means, which we talked about above.

Read the ingredients on the packages and be healthy!

It is a misconception that deodorants and antiperspirants are modern inventions. never associated with a person with something pleasant, so even the ancient Greeks and Romans carried bags of aromatic herbs under their armpits, and noble medieval Europeans drowned out the smell of sweat with expensive aromatic oils brought from the East.

Modern deodorants appeared only in the 30s of the 20th century, and by the end of the millennium, this cosmetic product became an integral part of the daily care of almost every person. But with progress, in addition to the general availability, there came an awareness of the harm caused by such deodorants, and humanity is again on the path to finding the perfect remedy for sweat that does not harm health.

How deodorant works

Sweat production is the ability of the human body to regulate body temperature. That is why, when we are worried or afraid, we sweat more - this is how the body lowers the body temperature. Therefore, even in the heat, we sweat profusely. However, there are microorganisms on the skin that break down sweat particles and give it an unpleasant odor. Various factors can enhance this smell - a person's nutrition, personal hygiene, or illness.

Deodorants are able to mask this smell; they often contain antibacterial components that kill the very microorganisms, depriving sweat of an unpleasant odor. However, it should be borne in mind that these funds do not in any way affect the sweating system and do not block it. Only antiperspirants are capable of this. That is, deodorant will not provide you with dry armpits on a hot day, but it will definitely save you from the unpleasant smell of sweat.

There are also products that combine these two functions - they both reduce sweat production and fight odor-causing microorganisms. These are the most popular and effective, but also dangerous, antiperspirant deodorants.

Why conventional deodorants are dangerous

The skin under the armpits is very thin, so it perfectly absorbs (i.e. absorbs) everything that is applied to it. That is why many scientists and doctors are concerned about the ingestion of substances that make up the deodorant into the tissues, and then into the bloodstream. It has been proven that a large number of chemical elements that have entered the human body can have a negative effect on his health - the work of the lymph nodes, the hormonal system, and the risk of developing cancer. The least evil, but the most common one, is allergic reactions.

Hazardous composition

So what should you be especially wary of? First, of course, it is aluminum. Much has been said and written about its harm in the composition of the deodorant. Aluminum salts (look for aluminum on the packaging) constrict the ducts of the sweat glands, which reduces sweat production. However, some of these salts are heavy metals that can build up in the body. They can lead to a decrease in estrogen production, as well as provoke the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Second, look carefully for propylene glycol in your deodorant. It is widely used for its ability to bind water molecules together, which means it retains moisture. However, it also helps to accelerate the absorption of various chemical elements into the skin, which, as we remember, is not very good for health. In addition, it is very allergic - only 2% of this substance in the composition will cause an allergic reaction on the skin.

Safe deodorant brands never contain triclosan. It is commonly used for its high ability to kill bacteria and germs on the surface of the skin. However, in Canada and Japan, all cosmetics with triclosan are prohibited, as this substance can accumulate in tissues and disrupt the work of the human hormonal system.

The next point of the dangerous composition of the deodorant is the paraben used as a preservative. It, unlike aluminum, increases the production of estrogen. There are studies that have revealed the presence of an increased content of paraben in women with breast cancer. While there is no exact data on whether it is the paraben that affects the risk of developing this type of oncology, however, scientists unanimously recommend not to use this substance until the exact mechanism of its action on the body is clarified.

Finally, phthalates. They help to keep the scent of the cosmetic product on the skin longer. But they also reduce the work of testosterone in the body. And it is dangerous not only for men, but also for women - insufficient work of these hormones negatively affects pregnancy and fetal development.

When conventional deodorants are especially dangerous

A listing of all the dangerous ingredients in a deodorant suggests that women are at risk in the first place. But even among them there are those for whom the risk is not just hypothetical, but very probable. And first of all, these are pregnant women who should know which deodorant is best not to use. The risk of using conventional deodorants during pregnancy is associated not only with the harmful effects of its components on the endocrine and hormonal systems. Worse, antiperspirant deodorants that are too strong can completely block the wicking of perspiration. And in this case, its constituents enter the bloodstream. And if for the woman herself this is not so dangerous, then for the fetus, which has the same circulatory system with the mother, it can be very destructive.

No less harmful are conventional deodorants for nursing women - the ingress of chemical compounds into the bloodstream can cause various skin reactions in a child, especially a very small child.

It's also worth choosing safe deodorants for teens, especially girls. This is the third risk group, since their hormonal system is just forming. Over-applying deodorants and leaving them on the skin for long periods of time can disrupt the endocrine and hormonal systems.

Which deodorants are safe

So, we figured out which inscriptions in the composition should be avoided. But what is the difference between a harmless product and how will it ensure the absence of sweat and unpleasant odor?

The main component that a safe deodorant has is mineral salts, most often alum. They do not block the work of the glands, but dehydrate the very microorganisms responsible for the appearance of odor.

It is not triclosan that is used as an antimicrobial agent in natural formulations, but essential oils such as lemon, lavender and especially tea tree.

Look for deodorants that do not contain aluminum; instead, natural astringents such as oak bark or sage help reduce sweat production. Safe absorbents - white clay (kaolin), corn or rice starch, soda - will help remove excess moisture.

How to choose a harmless deodorant

To choose the one you shouldn't trust the labels on the packaging “eco”, “bio” or “natural”. It is better to verify this by reading the composition. We have already sorted out what should be in it and what should not. If the composition of the product has convinced you of safety, also pay attention to the special icons that are on all safe cosmetics. These are icons with various images of a rabbit, which tell us that the cosmetics are not tested on animals. There are also a number of international certifications awarded to environmentally friendly products, such as the French AB certificate, the German BDIH or the single European NaTrue certificate.

Also look at the shelf life of a cosmetic product - the higher it is, the more preservatives it contains, which can theoretically irritate the skin.

Safe deodorants

Now let's say a few words about the form of the deodorant, because this is also very important. Now on sale you can find the following types:

  • Sprays - even with a safe composition, are not suitable for those who have lung diseases, and they are also consumed faster than others.
  • Roll-On Deodorants - The bottle contains a liquid product that is evenly applied to the skin using a roller for an economical use.
  • Hard, or sticks - create a film on the surface of the skin, which better protects it from sweat.
  • Gel - similar to roller, but inside is not a liquid composition, but a gel-like one, it dries faster on the skin, but is more common in products for men.
  • Crystals.

The latter are worth mentioning separately. These deodorants, which do not contain synthetic aluminum, are a piece of natural aluminum in the form of a crystal. It has properties to shrink pores and kill bacteria on the skin's surface. These are the safest and most economical natural deodorants that do not have any foreign smell, do not leave marks on clothes and have no contraindications.

Top brands for women

When choosing the safest deodorant for women, pay attention to German brands such as Dr. Hauschka or Wolken Seifen. Both of them are excellent at neutralizing odors, but the latter contains zinc, which can leave white marks on clothes.

The world famous Weleda cosmetics also have a safe deodorant in the product line, but there is one but. It contains alcohol, it does not make the product hazardous, but it can cause irritation and dryness of the skin.

Classic crystals are also popular, for example from the Lafes brand. Among the deodorant sticks, SPEICK is distinguished, which not only does not have the above hazardous ingredients, but also does not include mineral oils and synthetic fragrances.

How to choose a deodorant for men

Choosing the safe one is not easy. On the one hand, a man needs strong protection, especially for someone who plays sports or is used to an active lifestyle. On the other hand, it's worth thinking about health.

So which deodorants are safe? Among the safest but most effective antiperspirant products for the stronger sex, Yves Rocher Sensitive Homme deodorant stands out, perfect for sensitive skin. We also note Collistar Freshness Deo Active Protection - this spray does not have any ingredients that cause allergies, no fragrances, no dyes, no preservatives. Also, the composition is free of parabens and phthalates, in general, an ideal choice for those who care about health.

For those who prefer firm forms, the Clinique Skin Supplies For Men stick is suitable. An additional bonus - it has no scent, which means it will not conflict with perfume.

DIY natural deodorant

If you don't know which deodorant is best, then make it yourself. To do this, take:

  • 3 tablespoons each of quality natural shea butter (shea butter) and coconut - they will give a creamy base that is comfortable to spread over the skin.
  • A cup of baking soda is an absorbent and disinfectant ingredient.
  • A glass of cornstarch is another absorbent.
  • A few drops of lemon essential oil for disinfection and a pleasant scent.

Mix the room temperature oil well with the rest of the ingredients and place in an empty bottle of regular deodorant stick. Put it in the refrigerator and when the oil has solidified, your safe deodorant can be used. Oil applied in a thin layer to the skin is instantly absorbed, while the rest of the components remain on the surface and protect against unpleasant sweat odor.