Are natural deodorants more effective than traditional ones? Do they contain aluminum salts? Why change? We tell you all about the green version of this daily hygiene product.

The traditional deodorant is gradually giving way to more naturalness. But to find a good natural deodorant or make it yourself, we must first begin by disentangling the true from the false. Follow the guide.

What is a natural deodorant?

The term natural in itself does not mean much (and in any case, is not a standard or legislation). However, the deodorants naturals have this in common:

• They no longer contain aluminum salts (generally identifiable as Aluminum Chlorohydrate or Aluminum Chlorohydrate Zirconium Glycine Complex, or any other term that includes the term aluminum), these products long considered indispensable because they tighten the pores of the skin and trap water, which which helps regulate perspiration (and limit the 'wet armpit' side). Frequently present in antiperspirants and often in deodorants, these artificially produced salts are suspected of being toxic, even carcinogenic (especially for the breast) and of inducing neurodegenerative diseases, because (it is proven) they cross the particularly fine skin on this area, with an increased risk after shaving or hair removal (which can cause micro-cuts). The ANSM, in 2011, concluded that there was not enough information about them to firmly conclude on their carcinogenic effect, but nevertheless recommended reducing their concentration to 0.6% in order to limit the risk linked to the systemic effects – bone and neurotoxic – of aluminum during chronic exposure: aluminum is a so-called 'heavy' metal which is not insignificant. Nevertheless, many traditional products easily exceed this dose . Their use should be kept to a minimum.
• They no longer contain synthetic fragrances , potentially allergenic and irritating (some of which may hide endocrine disruptors) or chemical preservatives (parabens, triclosan ).

What actives in natural deodorants?

Focused deodorants ' anti-humidity ' are generally composed of perlite (a kind of silica-based sand), kaolin ( White clay ), of talc (which remains controversial), corn starch and of bamboo .

Those focused ' anti-odor 'because antibacterial (since it is the bacteria that give perspiration its sometimes strong or unpleasant odor) contain alcohol (sometimes irritating), baking soda and essential oils (often palmarosa or sage, both naturally antiperspirant, and tea tree - or tea tree - anti-bacterial).

You can also find shea or some vegetal oils (jojoba, amande douce, huile de coco…), des hydrophobic fatty substances which also provide a soft texture that spreads easily, or l 'aloe vera, very fashionable multi-function active, both antibacterial, moisturizing and with a fresh effect, or even lactic ferments or probiotics to fight against bacteria involved in bad odors.

What is the difference between a classic deodorant and a natural deodorant?

Natural deodorants do not prevent sweating , and besides, if you switch from a traditional product with aluminum salts to the green version, the body can take a little time to regulate its natural perspiration: you can then have the feeling of sweating more. However, this remains transient (about 3 weeks). They are suitable for normal perspiration but are not always sufficient for those in whom it is excessive, or it is necessary to make alterations.

Alum stone deodorants: effective or not?

Certainly, they are more efficient (often a long-lasting action). However the alum stone , although natural, contains aluminum (it is an aluminum and potassium sulphate). The products that contain it are therefore sometimes still debated, even if most of them are below the standards set by the WHO. If you are addicted to them for their great efficiency, you use them rather occasionally, for sports for example, and never after waxing or shaving your armpits.

What is the most natural deodorant?

We look at the labels for choose a product without aluminum salts or alum stone, alcohol, synthetic fragrance, preservatives, parabens . Obviously, we avoid all aerosols (not natural at all) and we choose it in stick , bille, in solid version or in pot (you have to spread it with your finger, but you get used to it very quickly and the jar lasts a very long time), ecological and very popular.

How to make the leap to natural deodorant?

While some have already taken the plunge by turning to natural brands and products, others are quite skeptical about their effectiveness. Our body indeed needs a certain adaptation time to natural products , when he was accustomed to chemical formulas. If you embark on the adventure of natural deodorants, be patient, and give your armpits a detox can last between two and four weeks. This means that, naturally, these will go through several phases before they really adapt to the natural deodorant and get rid of the aluminum salts present in 'classic' and chemical deodorants. During these few weeks, you will therefore sweat more and it is possible that perspiration odors also be part of it. You have to take your pain patiently and you can then switch to natural deodorants which only want your good. After that, no more problems will point the tip of his nose and your skin will be completely cleansed.

Source journaldesfemmes.fr