First thing you should do, is make your own lemon and coconut chemical-free deodorant. The antiperspirants and deodorants that we use every day probably contain aluminum that can be absorbed in our breast tissue and be a potential risk of breast cancer, or cause other health problems.
But that is not the only harmful ingredient.
Deodorants and antiperspirants also contain Parabens (synthetic preservatives). Actually, our body care products contain an alarming amount of parabens. CDC performed a study on 100 human urine specimens and the results showed that all of them contained parabens. That proves the high absorption rate of chemicals we apply on our skin.
The absorption of these chemicals can lead to hormonal balance disruption, resulting in early puberty in children and increased risk of hormonal cancer. Exposure of paraben has also been associated with organ toxicity and birth defects.
Another common ingredient used in deodorants and antiperspirants is Propylene glycol (petroleum based material). Because of its slick consistency, it is used to soften cosmetic products. It is less expensive way to make care products for skin easily applicable.
Studies have shown that if consumed in large quantities, it can induce damage to the liver, heart or the central nervous system.
Propylene glycol is found in a lot of processed food as well. So, we need to decrease our exposure to it.
Phthalates are class of chemicals also used in antiperspirants and deodorants. They are used in medical goods, plastics, synthetic fragrances, cosmetics and body care products. Phthalates help other ingredients to be solved, and to create better consistency.
Phthalates are associated with different health issues. High phthalate levels in blood and urine in women of child bearing age have been associated with higher risk of birth defects. This indicates that phthalates can increase the possibility of cell mutation and may disrupt hormone receptors.
Another common ingredient used in deodorants and antiperspirants is Triclosan. It is used as odor killing ingredient because it has anti-bacterial properties.
FDA classified triclosan as pesticide, and the Environmental Protection Agency classified it as probable carcinogen.
So, it is safer, cheaper and way better to make your own lemon and coconut deodorant without chemicals:
Ingredients:
– baking soda (4 tbsp)
– organic cornstarch or arrowroot (4 tbsp)
– coconut oil – soft or at room temperature (6 tablespoons)
– lemon essential oil (10 drops)
How to make it:
– Mix the ingredients in a blender and put them in a BPA-free jar
– Put it in a fridge to solidify and keep it cold (refrigerated).
– Keeps 6 months
