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People naturally want to smell good, but by now most of us are wary of the many health risks associated with commercial antiperspirants. When considering natural alternatives to traditional antiperspirants, you may have noticed crystal deodorants are gaining popularity.
So, what are the benefits of deodorant stones, and will they actually keep you smelling fresh?
Crystal deodorants are free of aluminum, talc, parabens and other toxic carcinogens
In our efforts to practice good personal hygiene, we’ve unintentionally exposed ourselves to a number of dangerous chemicals and cancer-causing agents.
Here’s a closer look at several harmful ingredients found in conventional deodorants, that you won’t find in a crystal deodorant:
Aluminum: Used to inhibit sweat glands from delivering sweat to the surface of your skin, aluminum compounds found in antiperspirants wreak havoc on your body in more ways than one.
Not only does the body need to sweat to properly function and regulate temperature, but Cancer.org suggests traces of aluminum may cause changes to the estrogen reception of breast cells, which can ultimately increase the risk of breast cancer.
Parabens: These artificial preservatives have also been named a potential link to breast cancer. Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Dr. Philippa Darbre, Associate Professor of Oncology at the UK’s University of Reading, says even at low levels, parabens are capable of growing both healthy and cancerous breast cells in the woman’s body.
TEA & DEA: Both Triethanolamine (TEA) and diethanolamine (DEA) can present toxic effects if continuously absorbed into on the body. TEA has been known to cause a number of allergic reactions, while DEA has been linked to liver and kidney damage.
Triclosan: Used in antiperspirants to kill bacteria on the skin, studies show this artificial antimicrobial has been linked to contact dermatitis, and may also present hormonal imbalances.
Talc: Frequently used as an additive in cosmetic products for both its absorption and color properties, studies have linked this clay mineral to cancer of the ovaries and lungs.
Crystal deodorants are 100% natural, mineral salts of the Earth
As discussed in a thread on Chemists Corner, the most common form is usually derived from potassium alum, which is an antimicrobial mineral of 100% natural origin.
Potassium alum is most commonly found in the South American Andes and near the Mediterranean Sea. When extracted from deposits in the Earth’s crust, potassium alum, otherwise referred to as mineral crystal, is translucent in color and organically found in crystalline form.
Deodorant stones actually eliminate stinky odors rather than masking them
Unlike other natural forms of deodorant, crystal deodorants eliminate the bacterial source of bad odors. They provide up to 24-hour protection of odor, rather than masking the smell like other natural deodorants do.
The stone deodorizes by reacting to bacterial presence, then eliminating any microbes that would otherwise produce a foul-smelling odor.
It is important to note that deodorant stones are not an antiperspirant, as it is necessary for your body to naturally forgo the sweating process.
Pure deodorant stones are odorless, hypoallergenic and won’t clog pores
If you have sensitive skin or become easily irritated by high-levels of fragrance in your deodorant, you’ll be happy to know deodorant stones are odorless, hypoallergenic and safe for even the most sensitive skin types.
Being hypoallergenic, they are highly unlikely to cause an allergic reaction or itchiness like some antiperspirants can.
Crystal deodorants are antibacterial and healing in nature
In an article featured on Salt of the Earth, crystal deodorants are said to be effective in closing pores and healing cuts and shaving nicks. This is due to the highly astringent and antibacterial properties that naturally occur in mineral salts.
Just remember, they are only meant to be used externally and should not be left in reach of children.
Crystal deodorants can be easily applied to freshly cleaned skin
Deodorant stones can be used on places of the body other than the armpits, such as the feet. As they are water soluble, to apply, simply take your deodorant stone and wet the surface under water.
Then, apply the stone to clean underarms or another desired part of the body. Apply with a gentle sweeping motion.
You can also apply your deodorant as soon as you exit the shower, while your body is still damp and clean. It should not be something you use sporadically throughout the day to “freshen-up.”
It should only be applied when your body is clean. This video from Green Virgin Products further demonstrates how to effectively use crystal deodorants.
Unlike commercial deodorants that need constant reapplication, crystal deodorants can last well over a year
Like we mentioned earlier, crystal deodorants only require one application to provide 24-hour lasting protecting from embarrassing body odor. If you consider all the times you’ve reapplied your conventional deodorant in between activities throughout the day, that translates to a lot of spared product!
Whether you purchase a deodorant stone or a crystal deodorant in stick form, your product could potentially last well over a year.
Crystal deodorants won’t leave embarrassing stains on your clothes
You know how annoying it is when your synthetic deodorant gets all over your clothes, ultimately leaving nasty, yellowing stains?
Mineral salts leave behind zero oily residues and apply completely invisible, so you’ll never have to worry about dealing with embarrassing white underarms at the gym, or ruining your favorite black shirt ever again.
Crystal deodorants can be purchased in several convenient forms
If rubbing a crystal against your armpit doesn’t sound like your schtick, don’t worry. While deodorant stones are most typically purchased in crystalline form, they have also been formulated into spray, stick or powder products.
A few popular brands that offer these natural crystal deodorants include:
- CRYSTAL® BODY DEODORANT STICK ($7 at GNC)
- Deodorant Stones of America – Thai Crystal Deodorant Stick ($5 on Thrive Market)
- Crystal Essence MINERAL DEODORANT BODY SPRAY ($5 at Vitamin Shoppe)
Crystal deodorants are cruelty-free
According to PETA.org, the above crystal deodorant companies, as well as all other forms of natural occurring crystal deodorants, are cruelty-free and are not tested on animals.
For those concerned with protecting the rights of our furry friends, this can be another important factor when considering whether or not to switch to a crystal deodorant, as other commercial brands may participate in such practices.
Making the choice to go crystal
Luckily for those concerned with embarrassing and unpleasant body odors, it is possible to achieve good hygiene without the unnecessary health risks.
Crystal deodorants are not only becoming the most common form of natural deodorant, but they trump all other forms, as they are able to eliminate and prevent odors instead of simply trying to disguise them.
Considering the other many benefits, like cost efficiency, hypoallergenic nature and ease of application, you run little risk making the transition to crystal deodorant from conventional antiperspirants.
Whatever you do, make the choice for your health, not for your bank account, lifestyle or the opinion of others. Go explore your options—there’s plenty of amazing natural and crystal deodorants out there that will leave you to wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner!
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