Up until a few years ago, we hardly cared about the ingredients of deodorants, a basic and essential product in our daily lives. Today we are very fortunate to have information available that can help us make the right decisions regarding the products that we apply daily, specially in such a sensitive area such as the armpits. In this blog we explain why at KŌNSE Beauty we recommend making this change.
Ingredients to avoid
Alcohol, an antiseptic agent that gives the effect of “freshness” because it helps sweat to dry faster on the skin. It is not a toxic ingredient, but it tends to dry and irritate the skin.
Phthalates , used to permanently fix the smell of perfumes on the skin and neutralize bad odours more effectively and for a longer time. Several phthalates have been classified as hormonal disruptors and toxic to the reproductive health.
Avoid: “phtal” or “phtalate” like DEP – diethyl phtalate, DBP – dibutyl phtalate or DEHP-dietylhexyl phtalate)
Parabens, are synthetic preservatives that are also considered hormone disruptors. Some studies have found significant concentrations of parabens in breast cancer tissue samples.
Avoid: “parabens” such as Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Propylparaben.
Aluminum salts, due to their anti-perspirant effect as they close the pore and thus reduce the volume of sweat produced. The problem is that this metal is bioaccumulative, once it enters the body it is very difficult to expel it, and many studies have linked it to neurotoxicity, Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer. It can also cause irritation and increased sensitivity in the armpits.
Avoid: Aluminum chloride, Aluminum chlorhydrate, Aluminum chlorohydrex, Aluminum Fluoride or Aluminum zirconium.
Talc, acts as an absorbent. It can contain mineral fibers classified in the same way as asbestos fibers … It is an ingredient that is not normally obtained in a sustainable way.
Triclosan, it is a synthetic preservative with antibacterial properties. Also considered an endocrine disruptor, which can increase the risk of cancer.
Avoid: Triclosan (its brand name) or 5-Chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy-phenol).
Ingredients we recommend
Clays, super absorbent, white clay is ultra effective at removing moisture.
Sodium bicarbonate, Excellent antibacterial agent, it is also the perfect ally to neutralize body odours and humidity.
Essential oils, “deodorize” effectively. Depending on the essential oil chosen (for example, tea tree or even geranium), they provide an antibacterial action as an added benefit.
Do you want to know more about why we recommend the use of natural deodorants? We spoke with Chloe Millet of Wisdom Cares in this ITGV about what ingredients to avoid and how to make your own natural deodorant at home in a matter of minutes, don’t miss it!
Up for making your own? Please do share your formula with us through our IG, we would love to hear your ideas.
