Aluminum Armpits

Most people use antiperspirant and/or deodorant.  Deodorant is designed to deal with offensive odors by neutralizing them or masking them.  Antiperspirant combats sweat because it blocks the sweat glands. You have probably heard that antiperspirants contain aluminum and that it is bad for you.  I’ve heard that and I really didn’t give it much thought. I’m more concerned about the waste created by the packaging and waste of the container than whether or not said product is giving me cancer or causing Alzheimer's.  My priorities may seem backward but I like to live dangerously.

I used to use Degree UltraClear Black and White Pure Clean Antiperspirant and Deodorant Stick.  It got the job done and once I find a product that I like, I’m a very loyal customer. Since you can’t recycle the plastic when the product is used, I wanted to find a better option.  There are several options online for antiperspirant and/or deodorant that are packaged in a compostable cardboard tube. Huzzah for sustainable packaging! I really wanted to try one of these but since I can’t smell it and check it out before ordering, I am reluctant to buy it.  I read mixed reviews and decided I wanted to stick with something closer to home.

Since I am part of the Tom’s of Maine free recycling program through TerraCycle, I decided to give Tom’s a try.  I’ve already made the switch to Tom’s toothpaste, so I felt good about making this change. I checked out a few options that Tom’s has to offer at Target and decided on the coconut lavender option.  It smells nice and seems to be working so that all checks out. Once it is all used up, I’ll put it into the collection of other used up Tom’s of Maine stuff and ship it to Terracycle one there is enough to justify shipping. Free shipping by the way.  

When I first used the new Tom’s deodorant/antiperspirant I noticed it said “made with recycled aluminum for a smaller carbon footprint” on the back.  It’s the first time I realized that aluminum really is in antiperspirants. I’m not sure if clogging your sweat glands with aluminum salts every day is bad for you but it’s something to think about. At the very least, I can feel good that yesterday’s coke zero can in clogging my sweat glands today.

Behold the power of Tom's!!!