Here's some information about deodorants and antiperspirants that I didn't know about.
In my experience deodorants and antiperspirants can cause real irritation and itching if your not careful.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
The astringent compounds in deodorants and antiperspirants, such as zinc and aluminum, reduce sweat and odor producing bacteria—but they can also cause skin irritation, and some products contain potential or known carcinogens and hormone disruptors.
Dirty Dozen-Free Products:
If nothing else, avoid any deodorant that lists an ingredient included in the Green Guide's "Dirty Dozen Chemicals in Cosmetics." Of those 12, those most commonly found in deodorants and antiperspirants are antibacterials, diethanolamine (DEA), formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, fragrance and parabens.
Third Party Certification: A growing number of consumer and industry groups are launching reliable certifications for personal care products, some in the U.S. and others based in Europe and Australia. Among the most reliable are USDA Certified Organic, the Natural Products Association certification, BDIH and Australian Certified Organic.
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Avoid aerosol products, which are typically made with petroleum based ingredients and can be respiratory irritants.
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Don't rely on undefined claims, such as "hypoallergenic" or "natural." These terms are not regulated by the FDA and therefore provide no guarantees of a product's safety.
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Avoid products labeled "cruelty-free" that aren't Leaping Bunny-certified. While the product itself may not have been tested on animals, the ingredients may have.
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Look for products that come in recycled or recyclable packaging.
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Don't use antiperspirant or deodorant products on broken or inflamed skin.
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You can make your own deodorant from baking soda (which deodorizes) and cornstarch (which absorbs moisture and deodorizes). Dab them on with a powder puff after a shower, while you're skin is still damp.
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No credible evidence exists to link antiperspirant use to breast cancer. The American Cancer Society has compiled a convincing set of counter-arguments to this widespread, Internet-disseminated rumor.
Call the FDA cosmetics and colors info line (888-723-3366) to report adverse effects that occur after using a deodorant or antiperspirant.
- List of Products
3 comments:
That's very helpful information. Thanks for sharing!
Hello Mary...I just got a book called the 'Green Guide To Beauty' and it is shocking. The stuff that can be put into personal care and cosmetics isn't regulated just like the example you provide here. Great post for Think Green... --Michelle--
Thanks for this informative post, Mary.
As a complimentary therapist,I say that perspiration is a natural process, and the body gets rid of waste materials in sweat. So if you block sweat using anti-perspirants, you block that process, and lead to a build-up of toxins in your body.
I like the recipe for natural deodorant.I've used essential oils quite effectively too.
I agree with Michelle that the list of ingredients in some "beauty" products is quite shocking.
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