How safe are our antiperspirants?

Scientists at Reading University have published research that points to a possible link between the use of antiperspirants and the rising rate of breast cancer. Antiperspirants contain chemicals such as zirconium and aluminium and lab tests have found that these chemicals cause cell mutations in the DNA, which can lead to cancerous growth.

Philippa Darbre, senior cancer researcher at Reading University, says that the use of antiperspirants in prepubescent and teenage children should be ‘a cause for concern’. Aluminium and zirconium may disrupt hormones and prolonged exposure to these at such an important time in a child’s development could damage their health.

There are no natural antiperspirants that block sweat but there are deodrants containing natural anti-bacterial agents and perfumes that reduce body odour. A natural tea tree deodorant from Green Things is available.