The association has analyzed the composition and classified 22 deodorants from the letter A to the letter E. It warns of the presence of “irritating or problematic substances” in almost all of them.
- We should add that, according to dermatologists, the use of antiperspirant deodorants can be counterproductive.
- Indeed, depriving our body of the regulation of body temperature provided by perspiration at the level of the underarms risks, paradoxically, increasing the production of sweat in other parts of the body.
- The carcinogenicity of inorganic ingredients such as aluminum salts in skincare products has not been really proven in humans yet.
60 Million consumers tested 22 brands of deodorants and make a ranking, from the letter A (without reservation of use) to the letter E (use not recommended), called “CosmetoScore” like a NutriScore on food products except that this time it is cosmetic products. To achieve a wide panel, the testers selected eight certified organic references, roll-on formats, aerosols and three references for teenagers, including one that can be used from 8 years old. Antiperspirants have been classified separately.
‘Men’s’ deodorants get the worst ratings
Deodorants “for men” are significantly among the lowest ranked. None of them got a grade above “D”. The marks pointed out? Axe, Mennen, Nivea Men, Brut and Florame. Brands with organic certification and those targeting the youngest are also in the sights and follow in the ranking. According to the association, all these deodorants contain substances “irritating or problematic”.
In the report of this study, 60 million consumers point to Avène deodorant, intended for 12 years and over, who are accused of using polluting ingredients, such as polymers or silicone.
“Do not use antiperspirant on injured, shaved or depilated skin”
The association also warns about products containing alcohol, which are very irritating on freshly shaved or depilated skin. Monsavon deodorant is particularly denounced for its lack of prevention. “Denatured alcohol appears as the first ingredient, which implies that it is present in fairly high quantities. […] It is unfortunate that the manufacturer is content with a precaution in fine print (Do not apply on damaged skin).” This deodorant remains on the podium of the ranking, “its short formula remains virtuous”reports 60 million consumers.
Finally, the survey is alarmed by the presence of aluminum salts, suspected of being endocrine disruptors and of having carcinogenic effects. They are mainly present in antiperspirants, but they can also be found in a classic deodorant. Gold, “As the aluminum content is not labelled, it is impossible to know which product contains the most.” It is therefore preferable, as the association advises, to “always follow the recommendation not to use antiperspirant on injured skin, or freshly shaved or waxed”.
