Body odor is unpleasant although non-fatal, resulting from poor hygiene. It arises when the bacteria on our skin reacts with the sweat from our pores and breaks it down into acids. Some areas of our bodies are more prone to bacteria build-up, such as our underarms. One way to prevent body odor in this region is to apply a substance called a deodorant.
Deodorant has long been touted as one of the necessary skincare products for fighting body odor. They come in a variety of roll-ons, gels, sprays, or creams. Most underarm deodorant products available today contain fragrances and aluminum compounds which serve to mask the smell emitted by the breakdown of bacteria.
Manufacturers have encouraged the use of deodorant for many years, despite it containing many synthetic chemicals. When you use any chemicals or artificial substances on your skin, although it has beneficial effects, these products can be absorbed into your bloodstream. They could have potential long-term effects on your internal system.
Aluminum in deodorants
Aluminum compounds in deodorants work by reducing the amount of sweat produced in your underarms by blocking the pores. They also mask any odor with synthetic fragrances. The active ingredient in most modern deodorants is aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly.
While it is very effective as an antiperspirant and deodorant, aluminum compounds are associated with some health issues when used for prolonged periods. In the 1980s, a study was conducted that linked aluminum exposure patients with Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative condition characterized by severe loss of memory and brain function.
There are also fears that aluminum-based deodorants can cause breast cancer, mainly because of the proximity of breasts to the underarms. While there is no conclusive evidence of the link of cancer and Alzheimer’s to aluminum-based deodorant use, there are many alternative skincare products without aluminum that you can turn to decrease your overall exposure to synthetic substances.
A safer alternative
Fortunately, some deodorants have been developed that don’t use aluminum but instead use natural ingredients that are gentler and safer, but just as effective. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to addressing body odor issues, you can search for a product that contains Magnesium Hydroxide or the compound Mg(OH)2.
Magnesium Hydroxide, sometimes called Milk of Magnesia, is a compound found in nature as the mineral brucite. Aside from being used to make deodorant products, it is used in antacids to treat upset stomachs. On the skin, it acts as an antiperspirant. It can kill the bacteria on the surface of the skin, providing a natural barrier for odor.
Because Magnesium Hydroxide does not block the sweat ducts nor clogs your pores with synthetic material, it does not irritate the skin. Blocked pores can potentially lead to acne, infection, and possible darkening of the area around it.
For women, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, many experts also recommend turning to natural skincare products. Anything you apply to your skin will be absorbed into your bloodstream and consequently passed on to your fetus. If you are lactating, synthetic substances can also be passed on to your baby through your milk.
The bottom line
You will be exposed to many synthetic substances in your lifetime, so you can protect yourself by choosing natural skincare products whenever possible. Deodorant is something that many people use daily, so choose your products wisely, especially if you are going to use it frequently.
Are you looking for more organic skincare products? We offer high-quality magnesium oil-based deodorant roll-on to help you fight body odor naturally. Browse our site for more information.