Let's talk deodorants

Let’s talk deodorants. I noticed something interesting recently.
Does anyone else’s right underarm seem to require more deodorant than the left one? Ours do. There's a reason for that. We're right-handed, here at Chez Africa, and more sweat is produced under the arm that is more active. For Lefties, it's probably the opposite. Either way, you can apply extra on your handed side, or reapply, as needed.

If you’re wondering what all the fuss is, about natural or non-toxic deodorant, here’s why.

For decades, conventional deodorants have been made and even marketed as anti-perspirants. The message has been that perspiration, particularly armpit sweat, is a condition that needs treating or correcting, and is unwanted. So, products were developed with ingredients like aluminum, that plug sweat glands > sweat stopped > wetness stopped > odor stopped. Voila! No brainer. 

The problem with this, is that sweat IS a natural and vital means of eliminating salt and toxins from our bodies. It initiates cooling through evaporation against overheating, to maintain an optimal internal temperature. Naturally. Think fever sweats, or sweating during a workout.

There are actually two kinds of sweat glands: eccrine, triggered by rising body heat levels; and apocrine, which respond to emotional stressors, fight-or-flight. Our bodies have both. Armpits have both.  Sweat itself is odorless, but in tandem with natural bacteria on skin, it reacts and can stink. Especially underarm and groin areas, where there are hair follicles. Or feet - go figure.

Now, no-one wants body odor, or to have wet patches and sweat stains on their clothes. Is there a good way to absorb sweat and control odor? Yes! Kick the toxin-filled, toxin-keeping deodorant/anti-perspirant and switch to effective control with safe, natural ingredients. Like Shea Fresh Deodorant, to freshen sweaty zones.

What goes on your skin can enter your bloodstream. Here are some common deodorant ingredients that may interfere with gene function, disrupt hormones, are outright carcinogenic or simply gland-clogging, and you wouldn’t consider consuming any other way. Parabens, phthalates, triclosan, propylene glycol, BHT, DEA, aluminum. Please, read labels. And findings. 

Doesn't this deodorant composition sound great: Shea butter, coconut oil, arrowroot powder, non-nano zinc oxide, tea tree, lemon, parsley and cedarwood essential oils? We think so, too. And it works

Eva & Rufina

Makers of Chez Africa | Shea Beauty Blends