Q. For years I have used a crystal-type (stick or rock) deodorant.
This last year I have noticed frequent all over body aches; playing golf, taking walks, just moving around.
I quit the crystal deodorant as a test and all aches went away. Started using it again and aches returned. Quit again and they went away.
Have you heard of similar reactions?
A. We have not heard of this reaction before, but it does suggest that there is systemic absorption of the active ingredients in crystal deodorant or antiperspirant.
Although many people assume that the chemicals they put on their underarms stay put and are not absorbed into the body, that may not be true, especially for women who shave their armpits.
Aluminum in Crystal Deodorant
Crystal deodorant stones are often promoted as natural. They are that, but they almost always contain alum. This is a term for aluminum salts like potassium aluminum sulfate or ammonium aluminum sulfate. Alum is used in reservoirs to get floating particles of debris to sink to the bottom. It is also used as an astringent in styptic pencils to stop bleeding after shaving cuts.
We cannot prove that your crystal deodorant caused your body aches, but you might want to avoid aluminum-containing products found in all antiperspirants just to be on the safe side.
MoM to the Rescue
Several years ago we learned from a reader of our newspaper column that milk of magnesia (MoM) was an effective deodorant. This liquid laxative has been used orally for over a century.
The only problem with it as a deodorant is the inconvenience of trying to get the liquid to stay put in your armpits. And there is the extra ingredient used as a preservative: sodium hypochlorite or bleach.
We developed The People’s Pharmacy Aluminum-Free MoM Roll-On Deodorant for people who would prefer convenience and a product without aluminum or bleach. Here is what some of our visitors have to say about Women’s MoM:
Linda:
“I have used the scented MoM for probably over a year and it is the best I have ever had. I love the scent and also the way it dries on my skin. I also use it in other sweaty areas and it works well there too. I would like that it be put in larger bottles if possible.”
Chris:
“This deodorant works, pure and simple. I have been using it consistently for over a year, and it never fails me — even under highly stressful situations.
“Over the years I have bought many expensive, non-aluminum deodorants and they simply wouldn’t pass the ‘stress test.’ I like the floral scent and, personally don’t find it overpowering, but there’s always the option of the unscented.
“I apply it before making my morning coffee and it dries by the time I drink my first cup. The ethylhexylglycerin might be a potential irritant for some sensitive skins. . . happily that’s not been a problem for me.”
Trudy:
“This has been the best deodorant I’ve ever used. I’m so pleased with the scent and protection.”
Mary Jane:
“All other deodorants did not curb my body odor. I started using Milk of Magnesia out of the bottle because of a comment in your column about 3 years ago. It was messy and inexpensive but it worked!
“Although your MoM costs more, I reorder 2 bottles whenever needed! It is convenient and most importantly it works! Thank you!”
Find out for yourself why so many people have given Women’s MoM Aluminum-Free Roll-On Deodorant a 5 star rating. Take a moment to read more reviews and decide for yourself whether this is worth a try this hot and humid summer.
