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All sorts of deodorants and antiperspirants have long become an essential attribute in a cosmetic bag of a modern person. They are especially in demand in the summer, as in the heat they help control the intensity of sweating.
However, these popular remedies are not as useful as they might seem. Regular use of antiperspirants and deodorants in the heat is fraught with serious dangers to humans.
How antiperspirants and deodorants work
The principles of action of these cosmetics are already displayed in their names. The word “antiperspirant” comes from “against” and “sweating”. That is, this tool contains chemicals that, acting on certain parts of the body, reduce the intensity of sweat formation. Deodorant works differently. This tool affects the microflora that lives on the surface of the skin, which is the cause of the unpleasant smell of sweat. Both cosmetics contain many chemicals that are not the most beneficial for humans.
1. Aluminum salts.
Cosmetics that eliminate the smell of sweat contain aluminum salts, which have the ability to block sweating and eliminate unpleasant odors. However, these compounds also have side effects. In particular, aluminum salts are considered one of the risk factors for the formation of cancer cells and the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, penetrating into the body, aluminum contributes to the rapid excretion of calcium, which in turn worsens the condition of bones and teeth.
2. Lead.
You can see lead in deodorant brands. This substance has antiseptic properties, thanks to which it effectively prevents the appearance of an unpleasant odor of sweat. However, lead is an element that is toxic to the human body, so it is often dangerous to use such cosmetics for health.
Lead, titanium, cyanide and other heavy metals that can be found in deodorants have the ability to accumulate in the body. The problem is aggravated by the fact that lymph nodes are located in the armpits. Penetrating into the lymphatic system, the harmful substance quickly spreads throughout the body. As a result, a cosmetic product can cause severe poisoning and lymphadenitis (inflammation of the lymph nodes).
3. Blockage of the ducts of the sweat glands.
Antiperspirants are used specifically to block the ducts of the sweat glands and thereby stop the process of sweating. The result of this is dry skin in the area of application. However, interference with the natural processes in the body has side effects. In particular, sweating is a method by which thermoregulation occurs in the human body. When a person is hot, the sweat glands secrete moisture, which is brought out through special ducts. The antiperspirant blocks them. As a result, substances that should have come out accumulate in the ducts, and inflammatory processes begin.
4. Aromatic additives.
The composition of most antiperspirants and deodorants, in addition to substances that block perspiration, contains aromatic additives. Fragrances and all kinds of synthetic flavors are strong allergens. Therefore, such cosmetics are unsafe for people prone to allergic reactions. These same additives can cause itching, redness, and inflammation of the skin.
It is also worth considering that there are a number of conditions and disorders for which excessive sweating is the norm. In particular, people suffering from vegetovascular disorders, as well as women during menopause, sweat more than others, including under comfortable temperature conditions. Therefore, any correction of the intensity of sweating should take place under the supervision of a physician.