The Big Stink - How Toxic Is Your Underarm?

In November 2008, a 12 year old boy, Daniel Hurley collapsed and died in his bathroom 'after using too much deodorant'. The hearing found that "he was overcome by solvents in the Lynx spray”. There were no repercussions for Lynx as the warnings are spelt out on the can. While this is a tragic incident, millions of kids and adults around the world are SLOWLY poisoning themselves. If they really knew what was in these cans, might they have second thoughts about using them?

The problem with deodorants is three fold. First the propellant gases like propane and butane are toxic and easily breathed in, second is the long list of poisonous ingredients which are absorbed through the skin and accumulate in fatty tissue such as the breast, and thirdly the blocking of pores by the antiperspirants. What does this mean?

Continuous exposure to toxic chemicals contributes to diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer. Most conventional deodorants contain aluminum chlorohydrate, parabens, propylene glycol, triclosan, TEA and DEA, among other chemicals. These are known skin irritants and poisonous neurotoxins that accumulate in the body. Exposure to aluminum is linked to Alzheimer's disease, with higher frequencies of use corresponding to higher risks of developing Alzheimer's. Aluminum can also mimic estrogen in the body, which is a significant risk factor tied most strongly to breast cancer. Parabens too increase the risk of breast cancer by mimicking estrogen- Researchers have found parabens inside autopsied breast tumors. Propylene glycol is as a humectant that is used in paint, dog food, floor wax, and you guessed it, many deodorants. It is known to cause contact dermatitis, kidney damage, and liver damage. The National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety warns workers to avoid skin contact with the toxic chemical, and yet people apply it under their arms everyday. TEA and DEA are hormone disruptors that are known to form carcinogenic (cancer-causing) chemicals.

Using these chemicals to block the pores from the ability to perspire disrupts the natural detoxification process. Sweating provides a valuable service to our body by eliminating toxins and waste products, as well as vital temperature regulation. Inefficient detoxification pathways not only increase our risk of disease, it may also hamper attempts to lose stubborn fat, as this is where toxins are stored to protect vital organs.   

We are exposed every day to environmental toxins against our will; it makes no sense to knowingly add to this burden. Indeed, it seems like the best way to get cancer is to smoke cigarettes, eat processed foods, and use mainstream personal care products on a daily basis.

Instead look for natural organic products in your health food store, and sample our chemical-free, 100% natural and effective Body Spritz Crystal Deodorant tested and approved by our very own EY trainers!