Are antiperspirants and deodorants really safe to use?
A while back, people began sending around emails warning about the link between aluminum in antiperspirants and breast cancer risk. This link may have originated because women are often told not to wear antiperspirants or deodorants before a mammogram. Residue from the products can show up on X-rays and be mistaken for an abnormality in the breast. So far, the FDA, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute have said that no existing scientific or medical evidence has been found to link the products to breast cancer. The only verified risk of using either deodorant or antiperspirant is skin irritation. Most formulas are pH-balanced, meaning they are not so acidic as to cause skin reactions. Still, anyone who develops a rash or experiences irritation from using a product should discontinue use. Never use either antiperspirant or deodorant on broken, cut skin. What are some natural alternatives? Deodorants: You can find products that are hypoallergenic, unscented, or