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It’s not every day we talk or even think about our armpit health. But how could we not!? These awkward little scoops of space beneath our arms are home to some very important lymph nodes that function to detoxify your body. Unfortunately, many of us are clogging the pores that release these toxins that are meant to be removed from the body. It’s time to replace the toxic mess you may be applying to your sensitive areas with one of the best natural deodorants for men in our list. But first, we must assess the damage.
Stop reaching for your scent-laden sport stick, clear antiperspirant gel, or spray canister, if they contain any of the following carcinogenic ingredients that are keeping your armpits from doing their job.
Toxins in Conventional Deodorant
Did you know there are ingredients lingering in your current deodorant that could be slowly making you sick?
Checking labels usually means discovering there’s no actual Sandalwood in your “Sandalwood-scented sports stick” and instead you’ll be bombarded with hyphenated words that are impossible to pronounce. Even if there are only a few ingredients on the list, it doesn’t make it safe or natural. Here’s a list of the most common active ingredients found in deodorant, how the body responds to them, and why it’s best to replace them with one from our list of the best natural deodorants for men.
Aluminum
Aluminum-based compounds are the most common active ingredient in and perhaps the most dangerous. Acting as an antiperspirant, aluminum blocks sweat glands trapping the body’s natural waste from escaping. If absorbed (and it often is depending on how long you wear your deodorant), aluminum will alter the structure of estrogen receptors in breast cells (because of proximity) and increase the likelihood of breast cancer--yes, men get this too. Additional estrogen in men can also create other symptoms like enlarged breasts, infertility, and ED.
Triclosan
Triclosan serves as a preservative and powerful antibacterial in things like deodorant, antiperspirant, hand sanitizer, and other cosmetics. It seems natural to want to kill the bacteria on your pits but at what cost? The FDA labels Triclosan as a pesticide while the EPA calls it a probable carcinogen. The use of these ingredients creates toxic buildup in the body and deteriorates our environment, especially aquatic life.
Parabens
Prosecuting parabens isn’t new for this blog but unfortunately, they continue to be used in 75-90 percent of men’s body care products. The most common include methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben. Parabens are used as a preservative but what they actually do is alter hormones. Yet another risk for men to experience spikes in estrogen levels.
[Read: The Truth About Parabens]
Parfum/Fragrances
Most men seek a strong, masculine scented deodorant. But you may be exposing yourself to a synthetic chemical soup that can damage your lungs, irritate your armpits, and cause allergic reactions.
Unfortunately, the danger of these deodorants don’t manifest themselves immediately but over time can result in asthma, kidney damage, allergies, and even cancer. Beyond the long-term damage, the use of products that contain these toxins can cause you to be tired, unfocused, and can affect your appetite and mood.
Have you discovered any of these perpetrating ingredients in your current deodorant? If so, toss it out!. Your armpits deserve better, your health is too important, plus we’ve got stellar alternatives for you. Here are the best natural deodorants for men.
