If there is one product we never forget to carry before stepping out of home, it has to be a deodorant. Although deodorants we use today are a fairly recent invention, the use of perfume to mask body odor dates back to the Egyptian times – although carob, incense, and porridge were their perfume choices!1
But, according to science, deodorants could be more of a foe than a friend! Deodorants contain toxins that could be harmful to your health. However, we’re not asking you to ditch deodorants altogether and embrace the sweaty armpits and body odor! There are organic deodorants you can make at home, and stay risk-free!
What Causes Body Odor?
The bacteria that grows on the skin break down sweat into acids. This disintegration produces stench, which we call the body odor. Body odor becomes evident after puberty (12-14 years), which is the average age of people beginning to use deodorants. Obese and diabetic individuals are more susceptible to developing body odor. The odor is also caused by the consumption of certain food, such as onion and garlic. Reducing their intake can also minimize body odor, decreasing the need for deodorants, and the frequency of deodorant use.
Are Deodorants Bad For You?
Deodorants contain a generous dose of toxins, which are capable of taking a toll on your health. To find out whether your favorite deodorant is toxic, check its ingredients. If aluminium, parabens, propylene glycol, talc, silica, triclosan, and steareth are some of the mentioned ingredients, then your deodorant is a tad too toxic for regular use.
Why The Toxins Are Harmful
When a chemical deodorant is regularly used on sensitive skin, it could cause itchiness, rashes, and dryness. The toxins in deodorants irritate the skin, causing a pH imbalance. Long-term usage of deodorants could affect the central nervous system, heightening the risk of dementia and alzheimer’s. The skin easily absorbs the chemicals, through a razor nick or cut, causing further internal damage to the body. Reports also hint at a possible link between deodorants and cancer. When deodorants are applied right above the breast, it is said to increase the risk of breast cancer. But, there has been no clear scientific backing to such claims, as the results obtained from various studies are contradictory in nature.2 3 4
However, regular application of the carcinogenic toxins on the skin is bound to cause repercussions in the long run.
Natural And Safe Alternative To Deodorants
Although there are “natural” deodorants sold over the counter, they are not a 100 percent organic. It is easier and safer to use household food products that double as deodorants. Some of the alternatives not impart a pleasant fragrance, but also have antimicrobial properties. However, ensure that you are not allergic to any of the below-mentioned products before giving it a try.
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is efficient in fighting body odor. Combined with corn starch, baking soda can help absorb the sweat, without producing odor. The combination also helps prevent dryness and itching.
2. Alcohol
Alcohol can be used as an alternative to commercial deodorant, when mixed with tea tree oil and witch hazel. Alcohol keeps the skin sweat-free, and prevent sweat stains on the clothes. Witch hazel is a mild astringent, and tea tree oil imparts a fragrance to the deodorant potion.
3. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice kills the odor-causing bacteria, and keeps the armpits stench-free. Swiping the armpit with a freshly cut lemon works wonders in getting rid of the odor. However, ensure that you do not use a lemon right after shaving, as it could aggravate any razor bumps or cuts.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
External application of Apple Cider Vinegar lowers the pH level of the skin, making it difficult for the odor-causing bacteria to grow. Use unfiltered apple cider vinegar for maximum benefits.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antibacterial properties that help fight body odor. The skin quickly absorbs unrefined coconut oil, without leaving the area sticky. The aroma of coconut oil also imparts a fresh fragrance, and keeps your skin moisturized.
You could also combine the above-mentioned alternatives and prepare an organic deodorant from scratch! Ditch harmful chemical deodorants for these natural alternatives, and smell like summer!
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