Deodorant: what it is and what are its components
The deodorant contains components that can harm health
Shaun Finn image by Pixabay
Deodorant is a product used in the armpits of the human body to hide unpleasant odors produced by the body and released by sweating. But, what many people don't know is that perspiration doesn't smell. The unpleasant odor is the result of the decomposition of sweat molecules and cell debris by bacteria present in the skin, producing carboxylic acids. A characteristic feature of these compounds is that they have a strong odor.
Furthermore, research shows that some compounds used in the production of deodorants are harmful to health. Learn more about these substances and the risks they pose to humans when used in deodorants.
Deodorant or antiperspirant?
According to the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), the deodorant was created with the objective of removing the odor from the armpits. The bad smell originates from the production of sweat by the sweat glands. When exposed to the action of bacteria and fungi, sweat undergoes decomposition and turns into carboxylic acids, compounds responsible for the unpleasant odor.
Unlike deodorant, antiperspirant was developed to control sweating. Aluminum is the active ingredient found in all antiperspirants. When applied to the armpits, aluminum forms a gel that temporarily clogs the pores that release sweat.
- Learn more in the article "Are deodorant and antiperspirant the same thing?"
Deodorant Components
Triclosan, propylene glycol, parabens, fragrance and aluminum are the main substances that make up the deodorant. Studies show that these chemical compounds present in its composition can be harmful to health. Learn about them and the damage they cause.
Triclosan
Triclosan is a compound capable of inhibiting the growth of fungi, viruses and especially bacteria. In addition to being part of the deodorant composition, triclosan is present in toothpaste, laundry soap, antiseptics, first aid items with antimicrobial function, clothing, toys and plastics suitable for use in food.
Triclosan is known to induce bacterial resistance, slow down muscle function in the human body, and act as an endocrine disruptor, targeting thyroid hormones. In addition, this compound can also bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms, harming the entire food chain.
Propylene glycol
Propylene glycol is a product known to have many uses. In addition to being present in the deodorant composition, it is used in food, medicine and other chemical products. Among its functions, propylene glycol acts as an anti-caking agent, anti-freeze, antioxidant moisturizer and flavor enhancer, emulsifier, humectant and solvent. However, frequent use of products that contain propylene glycol can cause skin irritations, rashes and damage to the central nervous system, according to research.
fragrances
Fragrances, responsible for leaving cosmetic products with a pleasant perfume, are the result of mixing chemical substances with dispersants, such as diethyl phthalate. Despite the attractive aroma of fragrances, there is research that proves that they cause health impacts if used frequently. Dysregulation of the endocrine system, skin allergies and cancer are some examples of damage resulting from the exacerbated use of products that contain fragrances in their composition, such as deodorants.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a compound very present in cosmetic products. In addition to being part of the deodorant composition, it is also found in makeup. moisturizers, medications, vaccines and foods. Studies link the use of cosmetic products that contain aluminum with the emergence of breast cancer, hormonal problems and degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. In addition, the use of cosmetics that contain aluminum causes aluminum to penetrate the skin and reach the circulatory system, causing further damage to health.
Alternatives to deodorant
Currently, there are deodorants that do not include substances harmful to health in their composition. However, it is recommended that you give preference to natural or homemade products, such as baking soda and milk of magnesia. These products are able to neutralize the carboxylic acids that cause the bad smell.
You can also purchase your natural and vegan deodorant at eCycle store.
