What to Look For

The astringent compounds in deodorants and antiperspirants, such as zinc and aluminum, reduce sweat and odor producing bacteria—but they can also cause skin irritation, and some products contain potential or known carcinogens and hormone disruptors.

Dirty Dozen-Free Products:

If nothing else, avoid any deodorant that lists an ingredient included in the Green Guide's "Dirty Dozen Chemicals in Cosmetics." Of those 12, those most commonly found in deodorants and antiperspirants are antibacterials, diethanolamine (DEA), formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, fragrance and parabens.

Third Party Certification: A growing number of consumer and industry groups are launching reliable certifications for personal care products, some in the U.S. and others based in Europe and Australia. Among the most reliable are USDA Certified Organic, the Natural Products Association certification, BDIH and Australian Certified Organic.

Shopping Tips

• Avoid aerosol products, which are typically made with petroleum based ingredients and can be respiratory irritants.

• Don't rely on undefined claims, such as "hypoallergenic" or "natural." These terms are not regulated by the FDA and therefore provide no guarantees of a product's safety.

• Avoid products labeled "cruelty-free" that aren't Leaping Bunny-certified. While the product itself may not have been tested on animals, the ingredients may have.

• Look for products that come in recycled or recyclable packaging.

Usage Tips

• Don't use antiperspirant or deodorant products on broken or inflamed skin.

• You can make your own deodorant from baking soda (which deodorizes) and cornstarch (which absorbs moisture and deodorizes). Dab them on with a powder puff after a shower, while you're skin is still damp.

• No credible evidence exists to link antiperspirant use to breast cancer. The American Cancer Society has compiled a convincing set of counter-arguments to this widespread, Internet-disseminated rumor.

• Call the FDA cosmetics and colors info line (888-723-3366) to report adverse effects that occur after using a deodorant or antiperspirant.