Antiperspirants and Deodorants: Safety, New Trends and What Research Shows

An article by: Carolina Cárdenas

Sweating is a natural process that helps regulate body temperature, but it often comes with an unwelcome side effect: body odor. While deodorants and antiperspirants are commonly used to manage this, concerns about their safety – particularly the use of aluminum in antiperspirants – have sparked widespread debate. This article explains the science behind body odor, the differences between deodorants and antiperspirants, and the ongoing discussion about aluminum’s potential link to breast cancer. We’ll also explore how regulatory agencies ensure product safety and highlight the latest trends in natural and sustainable alternatives. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding to help you choose products that fit well with your health, values, and lifestyle.

The Science Behind Body Odor

Have you ever wondered what causes body odor? First, we need to understand how sweat works. Our bodies have two main types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine.

• Eccrine glands are found all over your body and produce a clear, watery sweat that’s mostly made of water and salt. This sweat is virtually odorless and primarily helps cool your body down when you’re hot or exercising.
• Apocrine glands, on the other hand, are concentrated in areas with lots of hair follicles, particularly your armpits and groin. Unlike eccrine sweat, apocrine sweat contains proteins, lipids, and other organic compounds. When this nutrient-rich sweat meets the bacteria living on your skin, the bacteria break down these compounds, releasing volatile odorous molecules in the process.

In fact, sweat itself doesn’t smell. It’s the bacterial breakdown of sweat—particularly from apocrine glands—that creates that distinct body odor we’re all familiar with.

Antiperspirants vs. Deodorants: What’s the Difference?

To manage this, many people use deodorants or antiperspirants. Although many people use the terms interchangeably, they serve different purposes.

• Deodorants primarily target the bacteria on your skin. They contain antimicrobial ingredients that reduce the bacterial population, limiting their ability to break down apocrine sweat and produce odor. Deodorants also typically contain fragrances to mask any remaining odor. However, they don’t stop you from sweating.

• Antiperspirants, in contrast, temporarily block your sweat glands. They contain active ingredients, typically aluminum compounds, that form gel-like plugs in your sweat ducts, reducing the amount of sweat that reaches your skin’s surface. By reducing sweat, antiperspirants limit what bacteria can break down, thereby reducing odor as a secondary benefit.

Many commercial products are antiperspirant-deodorant combinations that both reduce sweating and fight odor-causing bacteria.

Aluminum in Antiperspirants and Breast Cancer: Current Evidence

One of the most widely debated concerns regarding antiperspirants is whether the aluminum compounds they contain contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer. The theory behind this concern suggests that aluminum can be absorbed through the skin, accumulate in breast tissue, and potentially act as an endocrine disruptor, mimicking estrogen—a hormone known to play a role in breast cancer development.

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer death among women, so it’s understandable why this topic sparks concern. Adding to the debate, aluminum was named the 2022 Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society, highlighting its potential to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people.

However, the scientific community is divided. While some research has raised red flags, other studies have found no clear evidence linking aluminum in antiperspirants to breast cancer.

Insights from Laboratory Studies

Some laboratory studies have found concerning results. In test tubes and animal studies, researchers have observed that aluminum can affect breast health by:

• Damaging DNA and causing genetic changes
• Mimicking the effects of estrogen, potentially interfering with hormone balance
• Transforming normal breast cells to behave more like cancer cells
• Accumulating in breast tissue at higher levels than in blood.

Findings from Human Studies

Despite these findings, studies in actual human populations tell a different story:

• A review of seven studies comparing women with and without breast cancer found no significant link between antiperspirant use and breast cancer risk
• Another study with 384 breast cancer patients and 384 healthy women found nearly identical rates of antiperspirant use in both groups (23.2% vs. 22.4%)
• One comprehensive review analyzed 19 studies and found no convincing evidence that aluminum-containing antiperspirants increase breast cancer risk
• When researchers had 21 healthy people use aluminum antiperspirants daily for two weeks, they found no significant increase in aluminum levels in their blood or urine, suggesting that short-term use doesn’t significantly increase aluminum in the body
• Studies show that only a tiny amount of aluminum from antiperspirants is absorbed through the skin, typically between 0.00052% and 0.07% of the applied dose, which is considered too low to pose significant health risks.

Assessing the Risk: What the Evidence Shows

The question of whether aluminum in antiperspirants causes breast cancer remains a topic of ongoing research and debate. However, it’s important to recognize that while laboratory studies have shown concerning results in test tubes and animal models, these findings have limited predictive value for human health compared to human interventional studies and epidemiological evidence. The weight of human population studies, including multiple large-scale investigations and systematic reviews, consistently shows no significant association between aluminum-containing antiperspirants and breast cancer risk.

A critical factor in this assessment is the minimal skin absorption of aluminum. Studies demonstrate that only a very small fraction of aluminum from antiperspirants penetrates the skin barrier, resulting in levels too low to pose significant health risks. While researchers continue to investigate potential mechanisms, highlighting the need for more rigorous, long-term studies to further investigate this potential link, the current epidemiological evidence does not support a direct causal link between aluminum-containing antiperspirants and breast cancer.

Cosmetovigilance: Antiperspirants and Deodorants Safety

Given the concerns about aluminum and other ingredients in personal care products, it’s natural to wonder: who ensures these products are safe? The answer varies depending on where you live, but most countries have regulatory frameworks designed to monitor cosmetic safety.

In the United States:

• Antiperspirants are classified as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs by the FDA because they alter bodily functions (sweating). This means they must meet specific safety and efficacy standards before being sold
• Deodorants, on the other hand, are regulated as cosmetics. The FDA does not require pre-market approval for cosmetic ingredients, but companies are legally responsible for ensuring their products are safe and properly labeled
• Both antiperspirants and deodorants must list their ingredients on the packaging, and manufacturers are required to report serious adverse events to the FDA
• The FDA’s MedWatch program collects voluntary reports from consumers and healthcare professionals about adverse reactions to cosmetics, including deodorants and antiperspirants.

In the European Union:

• The European Commission enforces stricter rules under the Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009), which applies to both antiperspirants and deodorants
• Every cosmetic product, including deodorants and antiperspirants, must have a Responsible Person (RP) in the EU who ensures compliance with safety assessments, labeling, and ingredient bans

• The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) evaluates ingredients like aluminum and other common components in deodorants and antiperspirants. For example, the SCCS has established that aluminum compounds are safe in antiperspirants at concentrations up to 6.25% for most products and 10.60% for sprays
• Moreover, the Cosmetic Products Notification Portal (CPNP) allows authorities to track products linked to allergies, skin irritation, or other adverse effects.

Both the EU and U.S. monitor and collect reports of adverse reactions to cosmetic products. This system, known as cosmetovigilance, not only helps to keep consumers safe but also ensures the timely reporting of adverse reactions, allowing for prompt interventions when necessary.

Cosmetovigilance data from both the European Union and the United States show no strong evidence of serious adverse health effects linked to the use of antiperspirants or deodorants. On one hand, no widespread or serious health effects have been reported through the EU’s cosmetovigilance system related to aluminum in antiperspirants or general deodorant use. On the other hand, no regulatory warnings or restrictions have been issued by the FDA specifically concerning aluminum in antiperspirants or safety concerns from deodorants in general. Adverse reactions such as skin irritation or contact dermatitis have been reported occasionally, but they are generally mild and infrequent.

New Trends: From Natural Alternatives to Whole-Body Deodorants

The global antiperspirant and deodorant market is a multi-billion-dollar industry, projected to grow to $37.9 billion by 2028 due to increasing hygiene awareness and product innovation. In 2024, the organic deodorant segment alone was valued at $138.4 million, reflecting a shift toward natural alternatives.

As consumers become more ingredient-conscious and sustainability-minded, the deodorant and antiperspirant market has responded with significant innovation. Here are some of the key trends reshaping this personal care category:

Natural Ingredients: The Aluminum-Free Movement

The most notable trend has been the explosive growth of natural deodorants that avoid aluminum compounds entirely. These products typically rely on alternative ingredients such as:

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate): Works by altering skin pH to inhibit bacterial growth, but might be irritating for some users, especially those with sensitive skin
• Arrowroot powder and cornstarch: Absorb moisture (though not as effectively as aluminum)
• Magnesium hydroxide: Raises skin pH to inhibit bacterial growth and is less irritating than baking soda
• Zinc oxide and zinc ricinoleate: Have antimicrobial properties
• Essential oils: Many, like tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus, have natural antimicrobial properties
• Probiotics: Introduce beneficial bacteria to compete with odor-causing microbes.

While natural deodorants are generally gentler on the skin and free from aluminum, they function differently from conventional antiperspirants. Aluminum-based antiperspirants work by blocking sweat glands and have been clinically shown to reduce sweat by 20–50%, depending on the formulation strength and individual factors. They offer long-lasting protection, often lasting between 24 to 72 hours. In contrast, natural deodorants do not inhibit sweating but instead focus on neutralizing or masking odor. As a result, users may still experience wetness, even if odor is effectively controlled.

Although natural deodorants haven’t been extensively studied for efficacy, different studies suggest that some formulations can offer odor protection for up to 48 hours. Natural active ingredients, such as baking soda, coconut oil, and tea tree oil, have demonstrated antibacterial properties that help reduce odor-causing bacteria. However, their effectiveness can vary widely depending on the product’s composition, the user’s activity level, and individual differences in underarm microbiota. Additionally, many users experience a “transition period” when switching to natural products, during which odor may temporarily increase as the body’s microbiome adjusts.

Sustainable Packaging: Towards Conscious Consumption

As environmental consciousness grows, packaging has become a major focus of innovation:

• Plastic-free options: Different brands offer solid deodorants in paper or cardboard packaging that’s fully compostable
• Refillable containers: Provide durable outer cases with replaceable inner cartridges, reducing plastic waste by up to 50%
• Recycled materials: Many brands now use post-consumer recycled plastic for their packaging
• Minimalist design: Some manufacturers have reduced packaging materials altogether, offering more concentrated formulas in smaller containers.

A 2023 consumer report found that 82% of global consumers are willing to pay premium prices for sustainable packaging, even during periods of high inflation, proving environmental responsibility has become a fundamental requirement in purchasing decisions.

Whole-Body Deodorants: Beyond the Underarm

Perhaps the most significant product innovation has been the expansion of odor control beyond just the armpits. Google Trends reports that search interest for the term ‘whole-body deodorants’ has increased by over 1,000% between 2023-2024. These products typically avoid aluminum and instead focus on controlling the microbiome responsible for odor. Whole-body deodorants come in several forms:

• Body sprays and mists contain antibacterial ingredients and fragrances designed to keep you fresh from head to toe
• Deodorant creams are versatile and can be precisely applied on intimate areas with your hands
• Deodorant sticks formulated to easily glide on multiple areas where sweat accumulates
• Deodorant wipes for on-the-go freshening in multiple body areas.

The whole-body approach reflects growing consumer understanding that body odor can occur anywhere apocrine glands are present—not just in the armpits. It also addresses changing norms around body care, with more open conversations about formerly taboo topics like genital and foot odor.

The takeaway

Aspect	Antiperspirants	Deodorants
Primary Function	Reduce or prevent sweating by blocking sweat glands.	Neutralize or mask body odor without affecting sweat production.
Mechanism of Action	Aluminum salts form gel plugs that obstruct sweat from reaching the skin’s surface.	Employ antimicrobial agents to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria and may include fragrances to mask odors.
Active Ingredients	Traditionally based on aluminum compounds (e.g., aluminum chloride)	Antimicrobial agents, fragrances, and natural extracts
Regulatory Considerations	Treated as drugs in the U.S. and cosmetics in the EU, but subject to stricter safety evaluations due to their active ingredients.	Regulated as cosmetics in both regions, with fewer pre-market requirements but still subject to post-market monitoring.

Despite public concerns, scientific research has not established a definitive link between aluminum in antiperspirants and breast cancer. Regulatory agencies rigorously evaluate the safety of these products to ensure they meet strict health standards. As consumer preferences shift, the industry is evolving to provide natural, sustainable, and whole-body solutions that align with modern demands.

Ultimately, the decision about which deodorant or antiperspirant to use is a personal one that involves weighing effectiveness, potential health concerns, environmental impact, and individual skin sensitivity. By understanding both the science and the limitations of current research, consumers can make more informed choices about the products they use every day.

References

1. Benohanian A. (2001). Antiperspirants and deodorants. Clinics in dermatology, 19(4), 398–405. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0738-081x(01)00192-4
2. Teerasumran, P., Velliou, E., Bai, S., & Cai, Q. (2023). Deodorants and antiperspirants: New trends in their active agents and testing methods. International journal of cosmetic science, 45(4), 426–443. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12852
3. Hangan, T., Bjorklund, G., & Chirila, S. (2025). Exploring the Potential Link between Aluminum-Containing Deodorants/Antiperspirants and Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review. Current medicinal chemistry, 32(3), 417–433. https://doi.org/10.2174/0109298673269343231025070053

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