NATURAL DEODORANTS- What You Should Know

For me, 2017 has been a year of self-discovery. Not only did I find my way back to my passion for writing, I've made some incredible lifestyle changes and have discovered so much more about what works for me in terms of health and beauty. In an effort to live a more whole and authentic life, I've had to ditch some bad habits. One of the first changes I've made was with something so simple: my deodorant. 

It's tough passing up a good sale, but often times the deodorants that are on sale aren't really the best for you or your health. Making lifestyle changes doesn't have to be enormous or profound. You can start small and even just being more aware of what you're buying and using can make a big difference in your life. I got the chance to try a cream deodorant from Purely Great (thank you so much PG team!) and I'm happy I did. I fell in love with Floral- one of the many varieties available, and I don't think I could ever use conventional deodorants ever again. 

It's no surprise that our skin absorbs a lot of what we put on it and I didn't realize there were so many hazards with something so convenient as deodorant. What I've found was surprising! Here are 4 main hazardous ingredients of conventional deodorants and antiperspirants.

1. Phthalates (pronounced THA-lates)

What does it do? Phthalates are a group of chemicals that can make products (usually plastics) softer and more flexible.

Why is it bad? Phthalates increase the likelihood of cell mutation and disrupt hormone receptors which in turn increases the risk of birth defects.

2. Triclosan

What does it do? Triclosan is antimicrobial—it kills bacteria, fungus, and other microbes.

Why is it bad? In addition to being classified as a pesticide by the FDA and a probable carcinogen by the EPA, triclosan has been linked to a number of different problems including: disruption of the endocrine system (particularly thyroid function), increased risk of cancer, and increased hay fever and allergy symptoms.

Because of this, some companies have begun to remove triclosan from their products, but you can still find it in many. The American Medical Association now recommends that triclosan and other antibacterial products not be used in the home as they may encourage bacterial resistance.

There's more- For some consumer products, there is evidence that triclosan provides a benefit. In 1997, FDA reviewed extensive effectiveness data on triclosan in Colgate Total toothpaste. The evidence showed that triclosan in that product was effective in preventing gingivitis.

3. Parabens

What does it do? Parabens are found in many personal care items and are used a preservative. You may see parabens listed on the label as: methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, or butylparaben.

Why is it bad? The problem with parabens is that they mimic estrogen in your body. Not good. Parabens can throw off your body’s hormonal balance. This can cause an early onset of puberty, increase your risk of hormonal cancers, and even birth defects in your future children. There are no restrictions on the use of parabens in cosmetics in Canada. International regulations are stronger. The European Union restricts the concentration of parabens in cosmetics.

4. Aluminum

What does it do? Aluminum is an ingredient found in antiperspirants and works to completely stop perspiration.

Why is it bad? Aluminum has been linked to a number of health issues:

Seizures

Breast Cancer

Alzheimer’s Disease

Bone Formation Disorders

Kidney Problems

It’s of particular importance of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and Down’s Syndrome to steer clear of aluminum. Recent studies have shown that they are particularly sensitive to aluminum and absorb much more aluminum than others.

But don't despair! There are alternatives to conventional deodorants that don't contain these harmful ingredients.

So what makes Purely Great so great?? Usually "long lasting" is a fake promise when it comes to beauty and health products. I have to admit, I was surprised that the Floral Purely Great deodorant held up to my busy workday. I'm constantly on my feet during the day so I think it's safe to say that when my pits smell just as good in the evening as it does in the morning- it's the real deal! 

The ingredients include:

Natural Soda (OMRI™ Listed – for use in organic production)

Corn Starch

Vegetable Glycerine

(tangerine) citrus reticulata oil,

(palmarosa) cymbopogon martinii oil,

(himalayan cedarwood) cedrus deodora oil,

(geranium) pelargonium graveolens oil,

(rose absolute) rosa damascena oil

linalool*, citronellol*, limonene*, geraniol*

*a natural component of essential oils

This cream deodorant comes with a handy little stick to stir the formula. It was a think mixture that had a very lovely fragrance. I did like the formula, but I didn't like that I had to spread it on my armpits with my fingers. There wasn't much of a residue left on my fingers and I hate to sound like I'm complaining, but I just don't want the extra step of washing my hands every time I have to put on deodorant. The odour neutralizing effect was much better than I was expecting so I suppose washing your hands is a small price to pay for greatness! A little really does go a long way with this product and the small jar can last up to three months. 

I'm happy to incorporate an awesome product in my daily routine and if you'd like to read more about what Purely Great has to offer, just check out the website https://mynaturaldeodorant.com/.

http://www.intoxicatedonlife.com/2013/11/05/5-surprising-hazards-using-deodorant-solution/

http://davidsuzuki.org/issues/health/science/toxics/chemicals-in-your-cosmetics---parabens/

http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm205999.htm