Lately, it seems, something stinks about antiperspirant. We’ve been told that conventional products contain ingredients that have been linked to Alzheimer’s and breast cancer, though the American Cancer Society and other organizations dispute those claims. So here’s the VJD 411:
First things first: antiperspirants reduce sweating, typically using aluminum to close pores. Deodorants fight odor (not wetness) and inhibit the growth of stinky bacteria.
While the jury’s still out on which ingredients are truly bad for us, we’re taking the better-safe-than-sorry route (a smart idea given the FDA does not require 3rd party testing for cosmetics). Search labels for these irritants/ allergens to avoid: aluminum, parabens, formaldehyde, propylnene golycol, -eth compounds, steareth talc and tricolsan.
So what’s a girl to do in this heat? To be natural without going au naturel try these VJD picks:
• The Crystal – uses natural mineral salts and leaves no white residue!
• Burt’s Bees Herbal Deodorant – sage, lemon and lavender help neutralize odors naturally.
• Dr. Hauschka’s Deodorant Fresh – uses zinc to minimize odor, while witch hazel and sage balance delicate skin.
Or peruse the EWG’s Skin Deep database for other sweet-smelling, low toxicity picks.
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