Natural Deodorant – Is It Safer?

Aluminum Free Deodorant

Research shows conflicting data and even more conflicting results about  whether or not aluminum in deodorant causes either cancer or Alzheimer’s. Most research indicate that skin exposure to aluminum is completely safe and that given the way that aluminum reacts with the skin, it is not probable that it can penetrate beyond the most superficial skin layers. But, aluminum is a common skin irritant and research has shown that an abnormal accumulation of aluminum has been found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. So we really can’t say conclusively if our deodorant is a danger to us.We can though use our deodorant more safely. Here are some suggestions that can minimize risk and discomfort:

Don’t use deodorants directly after shaving – applying to deodorant to freshly shaven skin increase the chances that aluminum will penetrate your skin.

Don’t use deodorant on broken or irritated skin.

Minimize use of aluminum deordorants by only using them on days when must have complete protection. On other days use a natural deodorant.

So on the days you won’t be using your regular deodorant what natural deodorant can you use? The People’s Pharmacy recent column suggests Milk of Magnesia as an aluminum free alternative. I think though there are some better options.

Check out your local health food or drug store and look for natural deodorant products containing tea tree oil which according to Pamela Allardice author of Natural Remedies A-Z is one of the most effective germicides. I can say from personal experience that I have used tea tree oil to treat mildly inflamed gums with great success. So I would agree it is an effective germicide. She also suggests looking for products which containing extracts of alpine lichen, calendula and arnica which work to prevent the growth of odor causing bacteria.

If you want add a pleasant fragrance to your natural deodorant product use a bit of any of these essential oils – ylang-ylang, geranium or lemon. Lemon is probably your least expensive option and geranium your most expensive. Here are some recipes I found that are easy to make:
 

Natural Deodorant

2 ounces witch hazel
5 drops each Sage and Lavender essential oils

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake well before every application.

Natural Body Powder

½ cup cornstarch
5 drops Lavender and Ylang Ylang essential oil

Add essential oils to cornstarch. Put through a sieve and mix well. Let sit a few days to incorporate scents into the powder.

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