The relationship between deodorants/antiperspirants and breast cancer remains uncertain, with research yielding mixed results. However, several studies have identified potentially concerning patterns that warrant attention.[1][2]
What are the main concerns about aluminum?
Aluminum compounds, commonly used as the active ingredient in antiperspirants, have raised several red flags:
- Tissue absorption: Aluminum salts can penetrate the skin, particularly when applied after shaving, which creates micro-abrasions that enhance absorption.[3]
- Detection in breast tissue: Research has identified aluminum compounds in breast tissue samples, with some studies finding higher concentrations in the upper outer quadrant of the breast—the same region where approximately 50% of breast cancers originate.[4][5]
- Biological effects: Laboratory studies suggest that aluminum may exhibit estrogenic properties and potentially interfere with DNA repair mechanisms, both of which are relevant to cancer development.[6]
Are there concerns about other ingredients?
Yes. Many deodorant products contain additional chemicals of concern:
- Parabens: These preservatives have been detected in breast tumor tissue and are known to have endocrine-disrupting properties.[7]
- Synthetic fragrances: These complex chemical mixtures may contain compounds that interfere with hormone function.[8]
What can I do to reduce potential risk?
Consider these precautionary measures:
- Choose aluminum-free deodorant products
- Select options without parabens and synthetic fragrances
- Apply products to clean, unshaved skin when possible to minimize absorption through compromised skin barriers
Bibliography
[1] Darbre, P. D. “Aluminium, antiperspirants and breast cancer.” Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry 99, no. 9 (2005): 1912-1919.
[2] Namer, M., J. Luporsi, J. Gligorov, M. Lokiec, and P. Spielmann. “The use of deodorants/antiperspirants does not constitute a risk factor for breast cancer.” Bulletin du Cancer 95, no. 9 (2008): 871-880.
[3] McGrath, Kathleen G. “An earlier age of breast cancer diagnosis related to more frequent use of antiperspirants/deodorants and underarm shaving.” European Journal of Cancer Prevention 12, no. 6 (2003): 479-485.
[4] Exley, Christopher, Lester Siesjö, and Hanna Eriksson. “The immunobiology of aluminium adjuvants: how do they really work?” Trends in Immunology 31, no. 3 (2010): 103-109.
[5] Mannello, Ferdinando, Gaetana A. Tonti, and Stefano Papa. “Human gross cyst breast disease and cystic fluid: bio-molecular, morphological, and clinical studies.” Breast Cancer Research and Treatment 97, no. 2 (2006): 115-129.
[6] Darbre, P. D. “Metalloestrogens: an emerging class of inorganic xenoestrogens with potential to add to the oestrogenic burden of the human breast.” Journal of Applied Toxicology 26, no. 3 (2006): 191-197.
[7] Darbre, P. D., A. Aljarrah, W. R. Miller, N. G. Coldham, M. J. Sauer, and G. S. Pope. “Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours.” Journal of Applied Toxicology 24, no. 1 (2004): 5-13.
[8] Kirchhof, Martina G., and Gillian C. de Gannes. “The health controversies of parabens.” Skin Therapy Letter 18, no. 2 (2013): 5-7.