When it comes to committing to safer products, non-toxic deodorant can be a dealbreaker. Because, let’s be honest, no one wants to smell bad. The problem is that conventional deodorants and antiperspirants are loaded with toxic ingredients that are linked with all sorts of health concerns like endocrine disruption, cancer & neurotoxicity. On the other hand, some of the safer, non-toxic deodorant options on the market, like crystals and charcoal, work well for some and fail miserably for others. Luckily, we’re here with a quick rundown on the top ingredients to avoid in your search for a non-toxic deodorant and a few of our current favorites.
The Top 3 Ingredients to Avoid For A Non-Toxic Deodorant
- Triclosan – You might have heard that the FDA banned triclosan from antibacterial soaps in 2016, but its use is still permitted in loads of products like deodorants, acne products & toothpastes. It’s a synthetic pesticide linked with hormone disruption, increased risk of breast cancer, liver damage, cancer & the development of super-germs. To avoid it, skip any deodorant listing triclosan or triclocarban on the label.
- Aluminum – Aluminum is used in antiperspirants to block the flow of sweat to the surface of the skin. The concern with aluminum is that it may be absorbed by the skin near the breast and cause estrogen-like effects. Because estrogen can promote the growth of breast cancer cells, some researchers are concerned that aluminum based antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer. While there have been no studies definitely showing that aluminum based antiperspirants cause breast cancer, many researchers believe that the question is still open and that more research is needed.
- Fragrances – We get it, fragranced deodorants can make you feel extra clean and protected from odor, but at a high toxic cost. Fragrance chemicals can pass through the skin and enter the bloodstream and are classified as carcinogens, hormone disruptors, neurotoxins, skin and respiratory irritants. The fragrance industry is self-regulated and their formulas are considered trade secrets, so that manufacturers aren’t required to disclose the potentially hundreds of toxic ingredients hiding behind the one word “fragrance.”
Our 3 Current Favorite Choices For A Non-Toxic Deodorant
Our Top Pick:
Native has the look and feel of a conventional deodorant, but that’s where the similarity ends. Boasting ingredients like coconut oil, beeswax and natural oils for scent, they offer a travel size sample pack so you can find your favorite “flavor” as well as unscented and baking soda-free versions for those with sensitivities. With no phthalates, parabens or aluminum in sight, we’re big fans.
Nobody’s perfect: there’s always a chance that even a natural fragrance can trigger allergies, and because of their primary ingredient being fractioned coconut oil, if you have a coconut allergy, this brand might not work for you.
Next Best:
1. Primal Life Organics’ Stick Up deodorant comes in four formulas that utilize non-nano zinc oxide and magnesium (no baking soda or aluminum) which help the body deodorize more efficiently without cover-up scents or harmful toxins. For those with sensitive skin, the White Coconut formula contains no charcoal or essential oils.
Nobody’s perfect: it can take a little bit for your pits to “detox,” and their formula becomes more effective over time, so plan to deal with a little stink at first. Also, the black formula, which features charcoal, may discolor clothes if you are using too much.
2. Purely Great Deodorant is EWG-verified, meaning it received the maximum possible safety rating after scientific review. They offer an unscented, activated charcoal option, as well as naturally scented options.
Nobody’s perfect: the tub-and-spoon packaging and the need to stir before use can be a little off-putting at first, so newbies or mess-free enthusiasts may want to explore the stick options.
Learn More
Non-toxic deodorant is one of the more difficult products to find non-toxic alternatives for. That’s because the vast majority of deodorants & antiperspirants have at least some of the ingredients noted above. A great resource for finding the most toxic chemical free deodorants is EWG, which helps you research safety information on specific ingredients as well as research specific non-toxic deodorant products. You can also check out our Chemical Free Product Guide on Deodorant for a deeper dive into this info.
At Force of Nature, we take the privilege of being in your home and around your family seriously. Whether you’re interested in our super-effective, family-safe cleaning system, or just want to learn more about non-toxic options to keep your home clean (and your family safe!), we’re here to help.