So far, my quest to rid my life of toxic products has been smooth sailing. I have easily swapped out all of my makeup, skin care, self-tanners, and perfumes, but one product that seemed to be the hardest to replace was my deodorant. After scanning my current Secret deodorant on the Think Dirty app and learning it was a filthy 9/10, I knew it had to go.

What’s Hiding in Secret Deodorant?

• Fragrances- A combination of over 3,000 fragrances are added to deodorants to give them a pleasant smell, however, these harsh synthetic fragrances can cause hormone disruption and severe allergic reactions.
• Talc- This is a hydrated magnesium silicate made to absorb, with ties to respiratory problems, skin allergies, and possible ovarian cancer. While the FDA claims Talc is safe, because deodorant enters into your sweat glands quickly, I do not want to risk using Talc in this area.
• Petrolatum- This is a mineral jelly used as a barrier to lock moisture in the skin, but because it comes from crude oil, it can be known to cause mild irritation, itchiness and is considered a possible carcinogen.
• Aluminum- This is in almost all deodorants, serving as an antiperspirant, astringent, and deodorant. The aluminum compound forms a temporary plug within the sweat duct that stops the flow of sweat to the skin’s surface. Some research suggests that aluminum-based compounds, which are applied frequently and left on the skin near the breast, may be absorbed by the skin and cause estrogen-like hormonal effects. Because estrogen has the ability to promote the growth of breast cancer cells, some scientists have suggested that the aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer.
• Behenyl Alcohol- This is added to keep formulas from separating while also keeping moisture locked into the skin. This is not a carcinogen, but it has been linked to skin irritation.