Sweating is a phenomenon which, in our society, is often masked by deodorants and antiperspirants. However, the use of these products is not without consequences for the body. So how do you take care of your armpit microbiome?
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What is the human microbiome?
Perspiration is the natural evacuation of sweat through the pores of the skin. It helps regulate body temperature. However, contrary to popular belief, it is not perspiration that creates bad odors, but the microbiome present in the armpits. And for the skin to be healthy, it is important that it is preserved as much as possible. A role that deodorants and antiperspirants do not always fulfill, where a natural and solid deodorant and healthy is more respectful.
The human microbiome is defined as the diversity of microorganisms present in the human body such as bacteria, fungi or viruses. Most of these microscopic living beings are harmless and can additionally play vital roles on and in the body. For example, some varieties of microbes help in the healing of wounds, others facilitate digestion. Some, however, will cause disease in humans.
The microbiome is specific to everyone and is influenced by many factors: the place of life and the environment, hygiene and the use of cosmetic products, the choice of clothing… In short, the microbiome plays a role of shield . Overloading it with cosmetics with controversial substances can lead to it malfunctioning. Hence the interest of using a majority of products free of any undesirable molecule like natural deodorants.
Why choose a natural deodorant?
If deodorants have become one of the most widely used hygiene products, certain criticisms are nevertheless appearing more and more. An American study published in 2016 revealed that antiperspirants reduce the density of the microbiome in the armpits. Not to mention that the molecules integrated into certain antiperspirants such as aluminum salts, which limit perspiration and sweat secretion, have been suspected for several years of being endocrine disruptors and carcinogens. It is therefore appropriate to change your habits by opting for a natural deodorant without aluminum salt and thus preserve the microbiome of the armpits.
What type of natural deodorant can you adopt?
Selecting an effective natural deodorant leaves no room for chance. Today, natural and organic brands highlight the ingredients they use, their origin, the organic or natural certifications obtained and the tests carried out. They testify to their know-how, their involvement in reducing the environmental impact through healthy products for the body, but also respectful of the environment. It is therefore possible to choose with full knowledge of the facts a natural deodorant against perspiration odors, a natural deodorant for sensitive skin or a natural deodorant without bicarbonate.
The ingredients used for these natural deodorants would have well-defined properties. For example, magnesium hydroxide would absorb moisture from the body, cocoa butter and sweet almond oil would soothe the epidermis, and tea tree essential oils or thyme would neutralize bacteria without blocking perspiration.
Another point is still to be emphasized when talking about natural deodorant. Manufacturers, often sensitive to the environmental cause, also emphasize other aspects than the deodorant itself. This is why you should also know that opting for a solid natural deodorant often means that the packaging is made of cardboard or paper, which is therefore recyclable. As for liquid natural deodorants, they can be packaged in recyclable glass bottles or made from recycled and recyclable plastics or bioplastics.
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