From the excitement of the first day of school to the stress of an important work presentation or the intensity of a challenging workout, sweat is a universal experience. Unfortunately, it often comes with the unpleasant side effect of body odour. While many traditional deodorants and antiperspirants contain harmful chemicals, there is a wide range of natural alternatives that are both safe and effective.
What is sweat?
Sweat primarily consists of water, along with other substances like salt, sugar, and bodily waste products such as urea and ammonia.
Despite its unpleasant reputation, sweat serves several beneficial functions, including:
- Cooling the body to regulate temperature
- Aiding in the healing of wounds
- Removing certain toxins from the body, such as phthalates, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury
The scent associated with sweat comes from its interaction with skin bacteria, rather than from the sweat itself. Understanding this prompts important questions about the use of antiperspirants that prevent sweating as opposed to deodorants that mask odour.
What’s lurking in conventional deodorants?
It’s not the body odour that raises concerns, but rather the questionable chemicals found in many conventional deodorants. Here are a few notable offenders:
Aluminum
Aluminum is a common ingredient in many antiperspirants. It temporarily blocks sweat glands to reduce moisture on the skin’s surface. This chemical has faced scrutiny over potential links to breast cancer. While the National Cancer Institute has found no conclusive evidence connecting aluminum-based antiperspirants to breast cancer, they acknowledge that further research is warranted.
Triclosan and triclocarban
These antibacterial agents have been integrated into deodorants and antiperspirants more recently. Originally registered as pesticides, triclosan and triclocarban raise concerns about promoting antibiotic-resistant bacteria. According to the Environmental Working Group, triclosan may also pose risks of liver and respiratory toxicity and could disrupt thyroid function. Both compounds are harmful to aquatic life and persist in the environment, making them undesirable to health- and eco-conscious consumers.
Fragrance/parfum
“Fragrance” can encompass a secret blend of various compounds. In natural products, these scents often come from essential oils. However, conventional products may contain hazardous chemicals, including parabens and phthalates—preservatives that can disrupt hormonal balance and are potentially linked to cancer. When selecting natural deodorants, look for labels that indicate “paraben-free” and “phthalate-free,” and ensure fragrances are derived from essential oils, or opt for unscented options.
Exploring natural alternatives
There is a wide range of natural deodorant options available at health retailers. You may need to sample different types, scents, or brands to find what suits you best. Don’t hesitate to consult store staff for recommendations! Here are some popular types of natural deodorants:
Natural stick deodorants
Description: These familiar stick forms might be the easiest transition to natural deodorants. Ingredients typically include zinc, coconut or other plant oils, and soothing aloe vera.
How to use: Apply daily to clean armpits, just like traditional sticks.
Liquids
Description: For those who prefer lighter textures, liquid deodorants provide a refreshing option. Common components include witch hazel and odour-neutralizing botanicals like tea tree oil, citrus, or sage.
How to use: Apply daily from roll-on or spray bottles.
Powders
Description: Deodorant powders are unique options, often made with cornstarch or baking soda to combat odours. Avoid products containing talc, as inhalation can be dangerous, and it may harbor naturally occurring asbestos.
How to use: Apply by tapping onto fingers or underarms, then massage into the skin.
Creams
Description: Initially unconventional, deodorant creams have gained a loyal following. Their formulations may include zinc, vegetable oils, baking soda, cornstarch, clay, and shea butter.
How to use: Apply with fingers. Some creams are intended for daily use, while others can be applied less frequently—check packaging for guidance.
Crystal stones
Description: Less familiar to many, crystal stones are made from mineral salts that effectively eliminate odour and are often fragrance-free.
How to use: Wet the stone and apply directly to the skin. They are typically packaged with a small dish for storage.
A brief history of sweat
While body odour is certainly not a new phenomenon, the use of antiperspirants is a relatively modern development. The first deodorants and antiperspirants are thought to have been created and patented in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Before that, people managed body odour by bathing, using perfumes, and employing dress shields—pads designed to protect clothing from sweat.
Resources
Explore these excellent organizations dedicated to environmental and health education regarding the chemicals in conventional deodorants and antiperspirants, and to assist you in making safer choices:
- Campaign for Safe Cosmetics safecosmetics.org
- David Suzuki Foundation davidsuzuki.org
- Environmental Defence environmentaldefence.ca and justbeautiful.ca
- Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep cosmetics database ewg.org/skindeep
