Most of the conventional deodorants and antiperspirants contain ingredients such as aluminum, parabens, triclosan and phthalates, which some studies suggest can cause hormone disruption. They can mimic estrogen in the body, causing something called estrogen dominance, a known factor in the development of breast cancer and other health problems. According to the journal of Breast Cancer Research, deodorants and antiperspirants are not rinsed off but left on the skin, allowing them to continue to absorb into underlying tissues. Abrasions from shaving also add to absorption and toxicity.

There are many brands of chemical-free, aluminum-free deodorants on the market, and many of these are safe alternatives. And as a general rule, deodorants tend to be less problematic than antiperspirants, as they work by neutralizing the smell of your sweat and by antiseptic action against bacteria, rather than by preventing sweating. As such, some deodorants do not contain any aluminum, but you've got to be careful about this. While many claim to be aluminum-free, they are referring to aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum chloride, aluminum hydroxybromide or aluminum zirconium, which are the types most commonly used in antiperspirants and deodorants.

So be sure, when choosing a natural deodorant alternative, that it truly is made of toxin-free ingredients. Aluminum is just one of them -- you can find other chemical toxins to avoid in your personal care products here.  Alternatively, just use plain soap and water. This is what I use, typically in the morning and after I exercise.