by Kerrie Bross

If you’re looking to eliminate toxins in your everyday life, then toss your villainnous deodorants and antiperspirants. Most deodorants and antiperspirants are loaded with toxic ingredients linked to many diseases. Check out the list below to see what toxins may be lurking in your stick. Or skip right to the end to see our new all natural deodorant line.

Common Toxins in Deodorants & Antiperspirants

Aluminum-Based Compounds – Aluminum compounds are the ingredients responsible for clogging the pores in the underarm area, thereby reducing sweating. Studies suggest there is a relationship between underarm antiperspirants/deodorant use and the development of breast and prostate cancer due to the aluminum compounds messing with estrogen levels. Other studies suggest that increased aluminum compounds in the body may disrupt proper neurological function and can lead to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Need another reason to avoid deodorants with aluminum? Aluminum kills the less odor-causing bacteria in our armpits, making it so the more odor-causing bacteria can thrive. That’s right, the use of deodorants and antiperspirants with aluminum actually make us more smelly. Natural deodorants with no aluminum will automatically help with odor because they don’t kill the beneficial bacteria in our armpits.

Parabens – Parabens are the preservatives most often used in the skincare industry. They get into our system quickly, even when applied topically, and mimic estrogen. Although they are only found in minuscule amounts in deodorant or antiperspirant, they are found in so many products that it can add up quickly. The big concern is the cumulative damage done from years of repeated daily exposure. Interfering with estrogen has been linked with breast cancer, in both women and men, and prostate cancer. Look for natural deodorants, sunscreen and other skincare without nasty parabens.

Phthalates – Phthalates are often hidden on skincare labels as “fragrance” but are plasticizing chemicals often used for their texture and their ability to help dissolve other ingredients. Phthalates is actually a huge class of chemicals, and not nearly all of them have been studied, but those studied have shown scary results. In the past few years, researchers have linked phthalates to multiple neurological issues like low IQ, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorders and other neuro-developmental issues & behavioral issues. They have been connected with breathing problems like asthma. Some other biggies researchers found links to are breast cancer, obesity and type II diabetes, as well as altered reproductive development and male fertility issues. Clearly, the less we get of these in our bodies, the better! A good natural deodorant will not contain any phthalates or artificial fragrance.

Propylene Glycol – Propylene Glycol is another ingredient that has multiple questionable health risks. It is a common food additive and is often used as a base for many skin care products. Although it is FDA approved, toxic levels have been associated with cancer, heart  disease, reproductive issues, developmental abnormalities, and endocrine complications. Many people get skin irritations or have allergic reactions to this common ingredient. Infants cannot properly process Propylene Glycol, meaning they can get toxic levels in a much shorter amount of time than adults. Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid it. Lastly, Propylene Glycol helps the body better absorb anything it comes in contact with, making it easier for other toxins to enter our bodies. Again, check your labels. Natural deodorants will not contain this toxic chemical.

Triethanolamine (TEA) & Diethanolamine (DEA) – TEA and DEA are known carcinogenic chemicals that can permeate the skin and negatively affect the liver and kidneys. Europe has already banned the use of these chemicals because of their known cancer-causing risks. And so have all the manufacturers of quality natural deodorants.

What Should You Use Instead of Toxic Deodorants & Antiperspirants?

Don’t worry, you don’t have to walk around a sweaty, smelly mess to have healthy armpits. Just switch to a non-toxic product like Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant. Schmidt’s Naturals was started in 2010 when the founder was pregnant and on a mission to develop a natural deodorant that was actually effective. And we think she did a fantastic job of it!

Schmidt’s invests in research and testing to ensure their deodorants are all natural, non-toxic and free of any controversial or filler ingredients. Schmidt’s developed their award-winning formula to naturally and effectively neutralizes odor without the use of aluminum or any other toxic ingredients. And it is 100% made in the USA!

Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant is enriched with natural minerals and essential oils, contains no artificial fragrance, and is easily absorbed so you only need to use a small amount. What’s more, they use natural powders to help absorb wetness. Schmidt’s Deodorant is also cruelty- and gluten-free and certified Vegan.

We Put Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant to the Test!

The last natural deodorant I tried gave me quite an irritation and even a weird bump under my armpit after using it for a while. These went away when I stopped using it, so I blame the deodorant. I’ve tried other brands that seem more like I’m spraying on a nice fragrance to mask my own smell. They didn’t really work on odor or wetness. I decided to try Schmidt’s Geranium Sensitive Skin Formula for myself because of my reaction to the last natural deodorant. I am extremely impressed!  Firstly, it goes on very easily, very smoothly. I tried a couple different brands that the texture was so bad – too thick and sticky even – that I had to toss them. Schmidt’s Natural Deodorants have a great smooth texture that goes on easily.

I know what you’re thinking. Nice texture is all well and good, but does it work on odor and wetness? Well, we got our initial order of Schmidt’s Naturals at the end of last week, right before a weekend of skiing at Attitash Mountain and dancing our butts off. It is late in the season, so it was a little warm for skiing in the Northeast, in the 40’s. But, it withstood the potential stink of a teenager skiing on a warm day! And, Saturday night was a huge party and dance night with a super fun 70’s band, Motor Booty Affair. I was out on the dance floor shaking my booty, literally shoulder to shoulder, with a crowd of people. At the end of the night I was not stinky and I had no sweat stains under the armpits of my silky long-sleeve shirt. So impressed!

Test Schmidt’s For Yourself!

We put it to our tests, and think you will be equally impressed when you put it to your tests. Give any Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant a try, and if you don’t like it, send it back. We have a 60 day money-back guarantee on all Schmidt’s products. Let us know what tests your Schmidt’s Natural Deodorants pass!