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The option for a deodorant free of aluminum and paraben in its composition can prevent a series of health risks

Edited and resized image of Hong Nguyen is available on Unsplash

Deodorant is a product designed to remove bad smells from certain parts of the body, such as feet and armpits. To eliminate odors generated by the contact of sweat with bacteria and/or fungi, most of these cosmetics contain substances such as triclosan, parabens, fragrances and aluminum salts. There are studies that relate some of these substances with negative effects on human health and, in this context, the aluminum-free deodorant presents itself as a good alternative to avoid contact with harmful chemical substances.

Unlike antiperspirants, if a product is exclusively deodorant, it will only serve to eliminate the bad smell, allowing the body to transpire and release toxins through sweat. This odor, popularly known as cecê, results from the contact of bacteria and/or fungi with the sweat produced by the apocrine sweat glands, located in some parts of the human body, such as in the armpits. The condition is scientifically called axillary bromhidrosis.

To eliminate the odor generated, the deodorant has compounds that act as bactericides and bacteriostatics, killing and/or preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi in these regions. The most common compounds found in male and female deodorants are: triclosan, parabens, fragrances and aluminum salts (learn the deodorant components and their effects).

Triclosan is the main active ingredient in common deodorants. This substance prevents the growth and development of bacteria causing the bad odor - and has also been linked to damage to health. The antiperspirant, also known as antiperspirant, has the function of decreasing the production of sweat (by obstructing the sweat glands). This cosmetic in general has as its main ingredient the aluminum salt, a substance of controversial use that is largely responsible for limiting sweating. Antiperspirants, most of the time, also act as deodorants, but not all deodorants will act as antiperspirants. Understand this difference better in the article: "Are deodorants and antiperspirants the same thing?".

aluminum salts

Aluminum compounds, mainly salts, are widely used in antiperspirants, in order to prevent the glands present in the armpits from producing sweat. Even though it is not the focus of the deodorant, some have the presence of these substances. There is currently a controversy linking the application of aluminum compounds in the armpits with the emergence of breast cancer, although this link has not yet been proven by any research.

The National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) published an opinion on this issue, informing that so far no data capable of inferring the relationship between aluminum salts and the incidence of breast cancer have been presented, but the risk is still present in female deodorants . In order to avoid constant contact with aluminum compounds, there are several non-aluminum deodorants available on the market. Read more about aluminum, its properties and what impacts it can bring.

homemade deodorant

Making your own deodorant is an excellent way to use an aluminum-free deodorant - and still practice mindful consumption. In addition to being much cheaper, you avoid not only aluminum, but also other chemicals present in most industrialized deodorants. A homemade deodorant can have the same efficiency as industrialized ones if its components have similar odor inhibiting and bacteria-fighting properties.

It is not difficult to produce an aluminum-free deodorant at home. There are several recipes, from those made with common everyday ingredients, such as baking soda and coconut oil, to more sophisticated ones with shea butter and vitamin E. In the article "Natural deodorant: homemade or buy?" we teach you three recipes you can try.

Buy aluminum-free deodorant

An alternative for those who don't have time to make their own deodorant is to buy an aluminum-free deodorant, which can be natural and/or vegan. These products do not use toxic substances in their formulations and also prevent bad smell. Some options are Bion Vitta, Alva and Herbia deodorants.

Bion Vitta Aluminum Free Deodorant

Bion Vitta deodorant is indicated for those who are concerned about health, the environment and at the same time want to be free of unwanted odors. It is an aluminum-free deodorant and also does not have in its composition isopropyl alcohol, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, parabens, dyes, petroleum derivatives, strong fragrances or products of mineral origin. In addition, the cosmetic also does not contain animal products and is not tested on living beings, a great alternative for those who have already joined or want to adhere to the vegan philosophy.

Discover Bion Vitta's aluminum-free deodorant, whose main active ingredient is tea tree, a natural bactericide.

Alva aluminum-free deodorant

Vegan and natural, this Alva brand deodorant has replaced aluminum salts with potassium alum, a natural antimicrobial mineral used to prevent the appearance of odor. It kills bacteria but lets the body perspire normally.

The cosmetic also contains Aloe Vera extract (also called aloe vera), rose water and witch hazel water, which soothe sensitive skin under the armpits.

Herbia aluminum-free deodorant

Another aluminum-free deodorant option is the Herbia product, which is vegan and 100% natural, in addition to being certified by IBD. Free of all chemicals harmful to health and the environment, it is rich in oils and plant extracts that keep the skin fresh and free from bad smells.

If you liked the suggestions, check out these and other natural products at the eCycle portal.