Can Using Deodorant Be Harmful?

28 ottobre 2025

2 min di lettura

Deodorants often come with a list of chemicals on the label, which can make us wonder about health effects. However, we cannot live without deodorant — especially in hot weather. Let’s look at whether it can be harmful to use deodorant.

Punti chiave

Deodorants often come with a list of chemicals on the label, which can make us wonder about health effects.
Myth #1: Parabens and aluminum salts in deodorants cause cancer
Myth #2: Alcohol in deodorant is harmful

Per chi è

Chi esplora Skin, nails, hair attraverso skin, odor.

Perché è importante

Questo articolo ti aiuta a orientarti rapidamente, per poi passare a una raccolta o serie se vuoi continuare.

Autore dell'articolo

Dr. Anastasia

dermatologist

Myth #1: Parabens and aluminum salts in deodorants cause cancer

A study released in 2004 confirmed the presence of parabens and aluminum in the tissue of breast cancer patients, prompting a mass rejection of deodorants. However, the sample was later found to be too small and unrepresentative, and new research from the American Cancer Society and world-famous Mayo Clinic rehabilitated both deodorants and antiperspirants. In the 1960s, there was evidence of a possible relationship between aluminum salts and the development of Alzheimer's disease. These speculations, too, were later disproved.

Myth #2: Alcohol in deodorant is harmful

There is some truth to this. Conventional deodorants (especially sprays and sticks) almost always contain alcohol (it kills bacteria, and therefore the smell of sweat). This means without alcohol in the composition, the deodorant does not work as long and is not as effective. On the other hand, alcohol dries out the skin. Therefore, it is safer to use roller products, as they contain moisturizing components.

Myth #3: Sticks and rollers are more dangerous than sprays

There is a difference between the release forms of deodorants and antiperspirants. The creamy substance of a roller deodorant usually contains moisturizing components, which is good for dry skin. People with profuse sweating and oily skin usually like the sticks better, as they instantly create a feeling of dryness. The spray is considered the most hygienic in terms of the tightness of the bottle and the lack of contact of the product contained inside with the skin. However, sprays are more likely to cause allergic reactions due to the potential inhalation of microparticles.

Myth 4. Pregnant women should not use deodorants, as they can harm the baby

To date, there is no reason to believe that the use of deodorants or antiperspirants can have any negative effect on the baby. However, if you are still concerned about the presence of chemical components, you can switch to organic or natural deodorants. Expectant mothers should give up deodorants in favor of sprays, allergic reactions may worsen during the pregnancy. For the same reason, expectant mothers should not choose deodorants with strong perfumes.

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