The Concern over Aluminum and Parabens

The aluminum found in deodorants and antiperspirants usually comes in two forms: aluminum zirconium or aluminum chlorohdrate. Health experts have shown concerns over the possible connection between aluminum and breast cancer. While researchers from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), that regulates cosmetics, medicine and food, have not yet reached a conclusive finding that directly links aluminum to breast cancer, there are still studies recognized by the NCI that establish an indirect link between the two. Aluminum based deodorants, when left on the skin near the breast area for a significant period of time, can be readily absorbed by the skin. This absorption could cause estrogen-like hormonal effects. Estrogen can promote the growth of cancer cells in the breast and, because of this, some scientists suggest that there is a possible link between aluminum and breast cancer.

Parabens are preservatives that may be found in deodorants and antiperspirants. Health experts are concerned with them mimicking estrogen activity in the body just like aluminum, which could result in cancer cell growth as well. The FDA states that “most” deodorants in the US today do not contain parabens. Other names for parabens that you might look out for are benzylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben, or butylparaben.

Be Safe – Use a Natural Deodorant

One way to stay away from aluminum and parabens altogether is to use a natural deodorant or antiperspirant instead of synthetic ones. Sometimes, a natural deodorant is referred to as an alum deodorant since its main ingredient is ammonium alum, which is an organic compound that reduces bacterial growth. The skin does not absorb ammonium alum since it has large molecules that can not permeate the skin. It usually comes in the form of a crystallized rock or a crystal body deodorant. It also comes in roll-ons or sprays, if you prefer.

Natural Deodorant Benefits

Indeed, opting to stay on the safe side using a natural deodorant or a natural antiperspirant will reduce your exposure from possible cancer-causing elements such as aluminum and parabens. These natural deodorants are also hypoallergenic, which means that it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.