Should you be worried aboutantiperspirant side effects? Yes and no. Much controversy surroundsantiperspirant — it’s been loosely linked to some scary diseases. But thesweat-stopping product is not necessarily badfor you. Let's dive into the details of potential harmful effects of deodorant.
Over the last two decades, studies have linked antiperspirantto serious health problems like breast cancer, Alzheimer’s and dementia. Butmost of these studies are inconclusive at best.
Phony Antiperspirant Side Effects
Don't buy into the misinformation surrounding antiperspirant and deodorant.
Breast Cancer
A few studies from the early 2000s conclude that aluminum inantiperspirant might increase the risk of breast cancer. They suggest aluminum compounds found in cancerousbreast cells near the armpit are theresult of antiperspirant use.
Scientists today counter that it’s unlikely antiperspiranttoxins migrate to the breast tissue and cause cancer. Your pores aren’tbottomless pits; they’re closed at the bottom. They also protect your body from outside chemicals.
Yes, in large quantities aluminum is dangerous. Butantiperspirants contain only a small concentration and have been deemed safe bythe FDA.
In the past, antiperspirants have come under fire forcontaining steareths and formaldehyde, “probable human carcinogens”according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. But the FDAactively monitors their use, and theCosmetic Ingredient Review deems lowconcentrations harmless when used in personal care products.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Alzheimer’s is definitelynot an antiperspirant side effect, but dementia could be.
Oneoutdated study discovered that Alzheimer’s patients hadmore aluminum in their brains than people without the disease. But scientiststested this theory in2002 and2014 and concluded there is “no clear evidence”that antiperspirant causes Alzheimer’s.
Antiperspirant use could lead to dementia if yourkidney function is below 30 percent. But the FDA requires antiperspirant brands toinclude a warning on every product.
Prevents Carcinogens From Exiting The Body
Don’t be fooled by this misinformation circulating online. Youdon’t “sweat-out” carcinogens from your sweat glands. They’reexpelled by your kidneys and liver.
Real Antiperspirant Side Effects
Antiperspirant isn’t life-threatening, but there are someside effects that might persuade you to choose a natural option.
Hormone Disruption
Many antiperspirant brands have discontinued the use ofhormone disrupters like BHTs, parabens and triclosan because they interferewith your thyroid and gene functions. But you should always check the label forthese questionable ingredients.
Allergic Reactions
This is the most common antiperspirant side effect. If youexperience irritation, redness or itching from antiperspirant, stay away fromformulas with artificial ingredients and dyes! Words like “Yellow Number 1” and“Fragrance” aren’t a good sign.
Changes The Armpit Microbiome
New research has found that antiperspirant does affect thetype of bacteria that lives in your pits. What does this mean? We don’t knowyet, scientists say more research is needed.
Conclusion: Antiperspirants Are Safe
For the general population, antiperspirants are safe for daily use. However, if you experience adverse antiperspirant side effects, there is an alternative solution.
The Thompson Tee is a sweat proof undershirt guaranteed to block underarm sweat — or your money back. The built-in sweat proof underarm barrier absorbs sweat and helps it evaporate — keeping you sweat mark-free all day long.
With a variety of sizes, necklines and colors formen andwomen, you’re sure to find a Thompson Tee that fits your style. Try it risk-free!
