Application of deodorants is a routine for all of us. We do not step out of the house without spraying. We all use different deodorant according to the fragrance produced. Deodorants help us is preventing body odor, sweating and make us feel fresh. Deodorants are segregated as cosmetics and not used for medical purpose.
Body odors are produced due to bacterial growth and bacterial breakdown of perspiration in the places where there is a contact between two skin layers.
The contents of deodorant are a slew of toxic chemicals, such as aluminum chlorohydrate, parabens, propylene glycol, triclosan, TEA, DEA, FD&C colors, and Talc, among others. But the main concern here is aluminum which can cause harm to our skin.
Aluminum based compounds block sweat glands to appear on the skin surface. Some studies also say that parabens, aluminum mimic the activity of estrogen in the body and promotes growth of breast cells and a chance of breast cancer is high. Antiperspirants another important ingredient of deodorants is also said to cause changes in estrogen receptors of breast cells and promote breast cancer.
TEA and DEA (triethanolamine and diethanolamine) are the many factors for causing allergic reactions in the body. FD&C colors are artificial/synthetic colors. Some are made from coal tar derivatives and have known to be carcinogenic; they also often cause allergic skin reactions.
Deodorants are hazardous to our skin as well as to our health. But not using them is something next to impossible. So the best thing is to use them on less frequent intervals, take light flavored ones. Do not change your brand every time. You can also use powder instead of deodorants.
Crystal deodorants are now in trend and many would want to go for it. It is said it causes less harm and more natural. Though it is less available in Indian markets, but not that tough to buy one and use.
Plant based perfumes available in super markets are proved far better than deodorants. Though they have a strong negative reaction with people with asthma. Perfumes have less chemical contents, less hazardous and no long term effects noted till date.