Choosing the Right Deodorant

A deodorant is a hygiene care that is used daily to prevent unpleasant odors. It is applied to the armpits, which are often moist throughout the day. The skin in this area is sensitive and often injured by frequent epilating and shaving. This makes it more porous to skin care products, which can then enter the body. As a result, it is important to use a natural deodorant that consists of ingredients that are safe for health

Unlike deodorants, antiperspirants block the flow of sweat. They also prevent unpleasant odors by limiting perspiration and killing bacteria. They usually contain aluminum salts, an ingredient that has been suspected of being harmful for several years.

Note: In colloquial language, the term "deodorant" is used more frequently than "antiperspirant." Thus it is sometimes referred to as a deodorant with aluminum salts, although it is actually an antiperspirant.

To fulfill their main function, which is to cover unpleasant odors without blocking sweat, deodorants contain different ingredients. If you have sensitive skin, some of them are particularly unsuitable. Here are the three categories of ingredients typically found in deodorant, as well as our recommendations for avoiding skin and other discomfort:

• Antibacterial active ingredients:

  Which ones should you choose? We recommend that you prefer more gentle and natural antibacterial active ingredients such as essential oils (palmarosa, peppermint, lavender...). Organic deodorants sometimes also contain triethyl citrate, an alternative to aluminum salts. Due to its ability to inhibit the enzymatic breakdown of sweat components, it is an excellent active ingredient to combat body odor.

  Which ones should you avoid? Some more "conventional" deodorants may contain triclocarban or triclosan. These substances are endocrine disruptors and can irritate the skin and eyes. They are also suspected of increasing breast cancer risk. Also, avoid choosing a deodorant that contains alcohol. Alcohol is used for its antibacterial properties and its ability to make the deodorant "dry" faster. Alcohol has a strong drying effect and can cause irritation, redness and tingling in the underarms. Finally, some deodorants contain parabens, which act as preservatives, but also as antimicrobial active ingredients. These compounds are known as endocrine disruptors (= they disturb the hormonal balance). So avoid a deodorant that contains, for example, butylparaben or propylparaben in its INCI list. The industry has replaced these preservatives with other ingredients such as MCIT (methylchloroisothiazolinone) or MIT (methylisothiazolinone). It is only when the skin is repeatedly exposed to the same substances that it sometimes develops a sensitivity to these compounds.

• Absorbent powders:

  Which should you prefer? Thanks to their microporous structures, certain types of clay, such as diatomaceous earth powder or even white clay, are desiccants that can absorb their weight in moisture. Their antibacterial effect also influences the bacteria on the skin, thus reducing the formation of unpleasant odors. Absorbent powders also include baking soda, which is common in natural deodorants as an alternative to aluminum salts.

  What should be avoided? Talc. This mineral powder is now largely controversial. In 2012, ANSES concluded that the presence of asbestos fibers in certain talc deposits cannot be ruled out. In addition, studies have shown that inhalation of talc has harmful respiratory effects.

• Fragrances:

  These are added to formulas to mask odors. Which should you prefer? Natural and non-allergenic fragrances such as vanilin or nerol. Some natural fragrance molecules can be allergy-causing, but are usually incorporated into skin care formulas in concentrations which are low enough not to cause skin discomfort (linalool, citral...).

  Which ones should you avoid? Synthetic fragrances, which are usually irritating and whose manufacturing process is sometimes not very environmentally friendly.