It’s a familiar routine: You apply deodorant or antiperspirant to your underarms after a shower. One is more controversial than the other, with a key difference between them. The chief medical officer at Redirect Health, Dr. Janice Johnston, explained that antiperspirants contain aluminum salts. The purpose of deodorant is to minimize bacterial growth from the body parts, especially the armpits.
A deodorant improves your scent, while an antiperspirant stops sweat. Both are found in many underarm products. However, some people may avoid products containing antiperspirants. Why? Antiperspirants have been controversial for almost 60 years.
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Because the armpits are near your lymph nodes and breasts, many are concerned that aluminum found in antiperspirants can cause Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer. Scientists are still unclear whether aluminum in Alzheimer’s brains is from too much aluminum exposure or the disease itself.
Aluminum is naturally present in soil and water, and in food. A job as an aluminum welder would be the only way to expose yourself to excessive aluminum. Recent studies agree that antiperspirants do not cause Alzheimer’s disease. Antiperspirants have also been investigated for their connection to breast cancer, but nothing has been found.
It is also important to note that antiperspirants clog your pores. According to some, this means toxins are retained in the body. However, that’s not true. New York dermatologist Michelle Henry said the kidneys and liver filter harmful toxins and chemicals, not sweat glands.
Antiperspirants don’t cause breast cancer, toxins build up, or Alzheimer’s disease. As with any skin care product, antiperspirants can cause allergies. Stop using the product if allergies arise.
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Natural Ways To Cut Back On Your Body
Odor
- Waxing or shaving
- Create your own deodorant
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Water and calcium-rich foods can help reduce sweat production
- Avoid aluminum deodorants
- Body odor can be controlled anywhere on the body with Lume odor control cream