The skin is the largest organ in our bodies, so we need to keep it protected. Anything that we put on our skin can get absorbed into it, especially if we use the same product every day.
Deodorant is product that we just can’t avoid, especially if we lead and active lifestyle. However, some deodorant brands conceal harmful chemicals that can really affect our bodies.
Since the armpits are such a permeable part of the skin, they can actually absorb up to 100% of anything that’s put on them.
This means that we have to be extremely careful about what goes on them, because it will subsequently get transferred into our bloodstream.
Here’s a list of six ingredients to look out for on the back of deodorant packaging. If possible, it’s best to avoid them immediately.
Ingredients to Avoid :
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- Methylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Propylene glycol
- Sodium hydroxide
- Aluminun
- Any other petro-chemicals or preservatives
Although there may be some deodorants in drugstores that don’t contain any of these ingredients, a natural alternative is something that you can only make by yourself.
Deodorant is too important a product to simply stop using, but an organic and all-natural alternative is easy to make, and probably cheaper in the long run.
Next time you run out of deodorant try this homemade recipe instead of running to the drugstore!
Homemade Non-Toxic Deodorant
Ingredients:
- 6-8 Tbsp Coconut oil (solid state)
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch (arrowroot is preferred)
Directions:
- Combine equal portions of baking soda & arrowroot powder
- Gradually add the coconut oil and work it in with a spoon or hand blender until it maintains a firm but pliable texture. It should be about the same texture as commercial deodorant, solid but able to be applied easily. Add further arrowroot powder/cornstarch to thicken if it is too wet.
- Scoop this mixture into your old deodorant dispensers or place it in a small container with a lid and apply it with fingers when you use it. This recipe is enough for 1 cup.
This recipe lasts about 3 months for two people with regular daily use.
Just like with everything else, it’s better to be on the safe side when it comes to harmful chemicals, especially the ones that are brought in to close contact with our skin. The more synthetic chemicals you can filter out of our lifestyle, the better!
