While beauty is only skin deep, some beauty products contain harmful chemicals that go way into your skin. Here are some surprising facts about that deodorant stick you use every day as well as some some safer, greener alternatives in case you decide to ditch that toxic stick.

While beauty is only skin deep, some beauty products contain harmful chemicals that go way into your skin. Here are some surprising facts about that deodorant stick you use every day as well as some some safer, greener alternatives in case you decide to ditch that toxic stick.

Toxic Deodorants

Didn’t think that using deodorant on a daily basis was harmful for your health? Well, if you find these chemicals listed in your deodorant ingredients and maybe you’ll think twice about your deodorant routine. While the chemicals found in your deodorant may not cause harm in small amounts, repeated uses can become toxic to your health. Most conventional deodorants contain potentially harmful chemicals like aluminum chlorohydrate, parabens, propylene glycol, triclosan, TEA, DEA, FD&C colors, and quaternium 18, among others. Aluminum is a poisonous neurotoxin that the World Health Organization has linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Parabens can mimic estrogen and have been linked to breast cancer, according to some research. Propylene glycol, TEA and DEA have been linked to dermatitis, kidney and liver damage. In laboratory tests, FD&C colors, which are made from coal, were found to cause cancer in animals. Other chemicals commonly found in deodorants that should be avoided include antibacterials like triclosan, synthetic fragrance, as well as aerosol products.

Safer, Greener Deodorants

While you may think that natural deodorant may fail to provide the amount of protection that your usual deodorant does, you’re in for a big surprise. Here are 6 natural deodorant brands that are just as good as what you already use. (1) Burt’s Bees Herbal Deodorant – contains sage, lemon and lavender to minimize foul odor. (2) Terressentials Organic Deodorants – no synthetic chemicals allowed, just the good stuff, and smells good too. (3) Bubble and Bee’s Pit Putty – contains organic arrowroot powder, coconut, lime, and geranium oils. (4) Weleda Wild Rose – a non-aerosol spray that leaves a pleasant floral aroma. (5) Arm & Hammer’s Essential Natural Deoderant – baking soda, chamomile, geranium and coriander oils keep you smelling fresh. (6) Dr. Hauschka Roll-On Deoderant – a blend of witch hazel, sage and zinc ricinoleate absorbs odor without harming your body’s natural processes.

They Ain’t Cheap

Be aware that any of these more natural deodorants will cost you – they could be up to two, three or four times as much as the deodorant you buy now. But, no one ever said leading a healthy lifestyle is cheap!