What's in your deodorant?

If you don't already know, well now you know! Your deodorant has so many chemicals, some that are so toxic that they have been presumably linked to cancer, Alzheimer's, and allergic reactions. Biggest threat of all ingredients? Aluminum. 
Aluminum is the active ingredient in antiperspirants that's designed to help you not sweat. Most conventional deodorants have this ingredient, especially in women's deodorants for vanity purposes. It has been suggested that once absorbed by the skin (our skin absorbs everything we put on it) changes in estrogen receptors of breast cells occur and it is suggested that aluminum based products increase the risks of developing breast cancer but that research has not yet been confirmed by the American Cancer Society and by the National Cancer Institute. 

My thoughts:
Our bodies are meant to sweat and it's also good for us. It is one of many ways our body uses to release toxins. There are so many conflicting studies about all these ingredients and truth is, we can't escape everything that is potentially harmful to us but we should strive to limit them.

I chose to stop using conventional deodorant for various reasons aside from health risks, like the darkening of my underarms or it's ineffectiveness in actually working to fight odor as opposed to masking it. I have been trying different types of natural deodorants and none of them have been that great but right before losing hope, I decided to try a different approach or method. Before I explain my alternative method, I have to mention how useful waxing underarms can be in reducing odor because it gets rid the hair by pulling it straight from its root, and because hair harbors odor and bacteria, it can be a major contributor to smelly pits. Another thing that helps is exfoliation. Just like I exfoliate my face and body, I never forget my underarms. 

My method:
I first use the Thai Crystal Roll-on deodorant which consists of water and mineral salt for killing bacteria.  This product can be found online or at any health food store ($3.83)

Since the crystal deodorant has no fragrance, I apply a solid perfume that is made of essential oils from Lush Cosmetics. My favorites are Tuca Tuca, Imogen Rose, and Orange Blossom.  They are compact which makes them convenient for travel and for re-applying. They also have fragrances that are neutral or for men, like  Breath Of God.  These products can be found at any Lush Cosmetics store or at their online at lushusa.com. (Prices vary, starting at $8)

So what do you think? Is this something you would be willing to try?


Update: (6/23/15)
I haven't used a solid perfume in a while, instead I use it in spray form.