by Sweating is our body’s most important means of temperature regulation. Without this function, we would not be able to release excess heat. However, the smell that can accompany it is unpleasant for many. A deodorant is therefore an important part of personal hygiene for most people. According to the German online portal for statistics, around 16.2 million people use a deodorant every day. But have you ever checked the label on the back of your deodorant? Parabens, phthalates, triclosan and aluminum are just some of the ingredients linked to cancer, Alzheimer’s and hormonal imbalances. Many conventional deodorants can not only harm your health, they also pose a major environmental problem due to the chemicals and plastic packaging used.
Most deodorants, on the other hand, offer a natural and more sustainable alternative. They are often characterized by maximum skin compatibility, do without questionable ingredients and work for several hours. We have put together the four best deodorant creams for you.
Deocremes: These are our favourites
- Deodorant cream from BEN&ANNA: The vegan and animal-free deodorant cream from the BEN&ANNA brand protects against moisture and odors and, thanks to the closable dose, is a practical companion when traveling and in everyday life. About 5 euros
- Deodorant cream from GREENDOR: This deodorant from GREENDOR does not sting, does not irritate, is free of allergens and has a subtle fragrance. The bin is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic from coastal collections. Approx. 8 euros
- Lavera deodorant cream: The active composition with organic ginseng and natural minerals is said to prevent the growth of odour-causing bacteria and thus prevent the development of sweat odor for 48 hours – even during physical activity. About 5 euros
- Jean & Len deodorant cream: The Jean & Len deodorant cream also does without many ingredients such as parabens, silicones and animal ingredients. Coconut oil and carnauba wax nourish and protect sensitive armpit skin, while lemongrass and coriander oil smell wonderfully fresh. Approx. 6 euros
The advantages of sustainable deodorants
1. No chemicals
The biggest benefit of a natural deodorant is that it doesn’t contain any unwanted or artificial chemicals. Unlike many commercial deodorants, it contains no aluminum or alcohol. Aluminum is usually added to reduce sweat production. However, the light metal can clog the pores and prevent the body from detoxifying itself through sweating. Suppressing the body’s natural functions is never a good idea, even if it may make you sweat less in the short term. Products that we use on our skin can enter our body and, in the case of aluminium, have negative effects on the kidneys, bones and nerves. Although deodorants do not prevent sweat production, they can effectively protect against body odor thanks to their essential oils and their antibacterial properties.
2. Suitable for sensitive skin
Have you ever gotten a rash or pimples after using deodorant? If you have sensitive skin or suffer from allergies, natural deodorants are a good alternative. A study published in the scientific journal Contact Dermatitis concluded that deodorants are the leading cause of fragrance-related allergic reactions. The German Allergy and Asthma Association also confirms that fragrances are the second most common trigger of contact allergies after nickel.
Many deodorants do not use synthetic fragrances. They rely on responsible and natural ingredients such as shea butter, coconut and jojoba oil or aloe vera, which care for sensitive skin without irritating it. The baking soda it contains is responsible for neutralizing odors. In addition, the manufacturers of sustainable products often do without alcohol. The application is therefore particularly gentle, even after a shave.
Also interesting: The right care for sensitive skin
3. Eco-friendly packaging and ingredients
Synthetic fragrances are not only irritating to the skin, but also a major problem for the environment. They often cannot be broken down in sewage treatment plants and therefore accumulate in the environment, in animals and in humans. Natural deodorants, on the other hand, use organic ingredients that do not pollute the environment.
In addition, most deodorant packaging is completely plastic-free and can often be purchased in jars or other plastic-free containers that can be easily recycled after use. In addition, unlike deodorant sprays, they are free of greenhouse gases and do not contain microplastics, palm oil or petroleum. Another plus point: deodorant creams are significantly more economical than conventional spray or roll-on products because they are used sparingly. A fingertip or a pea-sized amount is often enough.
Also interesting: Solid shampoos – how good is sustainable hair care?
Sources: apotheken-umschau.de, daab.de, swrfernsehen.de, utopia.de, stern.de
