Thursday, April 11, 2013

Home made natural deodorant



It is common knowledge nowadays that deodorants are very harmful and their prolonged use is linked to many different forms of cancer. Here you can read more about it.

I have researched the most dangerous ingredients commonly found in shop bought deodorants so you can satisfy your curiosity. I must warn you it's quite a scary reading.

Aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly or any aluminum compounds. Aluminum is absorbed through the skin and accumulates in the body. It has been suggested that there is an association between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease.

Parabens (methyl, ethyl, propyl, benzyl and butyl), are all derived from toluene, a toxic petrochemical derivative. Toluene is toxic if swallowed or inhaled. It is also harmful in contact with the skin. There is some evidence that repeated exposure to toluene may cause reproductive harm. Since 2000, 13 research studies have shown that various types of parabens act like oestrogen in animals and in tissue culture. Oestrogen is known to drive the growth of cancerous cells.

Triclosan is a skin irritant and may cause contact dermatitis. It may kill healthy bacteria as well as harmful bacteria. It may contain carcinogenic contaminants. It is stored in body fat and is classified as a pesticide by the FDA.

Talc is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer if it contains asbestiform fibres. The quantity of asbestiform fibres in cosmetic grade talc is unregulated. If talc is listed on the label, there is no way of knowing whether or not it contains asbestiform fibres.

Propylene glycol absorbs quickly through the skin and is a penetration enhancer. It may cause delayed allergic reactions. NIOSH says propylene glycol is a neurotoxin and may cause kidney or liver damage. The EPA says it’s not fully investigated for carcinogenic potential.

Silica is a skin irritant. It may be contaminated with crystalline quartz, which is a carcinogen.

Steareth-n (n may be any number like say 100), may be vegetable derived but is reacted with ethylene oxide (ethoxylated), a known human carcinogen. 


Having a teenage son, it is only natural that I felt the necessity to look around for more natural alternatives and buy various branded organic deodorants. Unfortunately, I wasn't always satisfied with my buys, and even less with the cost. This is why I did some research on how to make my own deodorant and I was delighted with this recipe. First of all it is a spray version, which my son loves, and it is so easy to make!
Last but not least it works. Now, obviously this isn't going to be as effective as an antiperspirant deodorant, but, provided that you do take your daily showers, it really works.
If you're not happy with the scent feel free to add in a couple of drops of citrus or peppermint essential oils. You can also experiment and come up with your own personal fragrance.


HOMEMADE SPRAY-ON DEODORANT by One Good Thing By Jillee

Ingredients:
1/2 cup witch hazel
1/4 cup aloe vera gel (or juice)
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
10 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil (one of the most effective deodorant essential oils that has a crisp, refreshing scent!)
Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake well before use.


PS: In my next few posts I will also start reviewing some natural branded deodorants and skin care products, for those of you who don't fancy getting their hands dirty! 



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