Q: I sweat a lot. Is antiperspirant bad for your health?

A: With renewed vigor for sweat sessions and wellness at the start of the new year, this question surrounding antiperspirant safety couldn’t come at a better time. The worry that antiperspirant use will stop sweating to the point that it causes toxins buildup in the body is unfounded. Your body rids itself of toxins through a complex process involving the kidneys, liver, intestines, lungs, lymphatic system, and skin. But our liver and kidneys take the brunt of these efforts, with the liver changing the chemical nature of most toxins while the kidneys filter out toxins from our blood. While the skin is a means of detoxification, it is not the sole source, which is partly why the medical community deems antiperspirants safe. Those concerned that aluminum or aluminum salts in antiperspirants trigger or cause Alzheimer’s Disease and cancer may rest a little easier, and drier, knowing that the studies linking aluminum levels with Alzheimer’s Disease and breast cancer have inconclusive findings. The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation and Alzheimer’s Association indicate that no definitive evidence links aluminum with Alzheimer’s and that it is not believed to enter the bloodstream or be easily absorbed into the body.

The American Cancer Society indicates that no clear link exists between aluminum in antiperspirants and cancer when used as indicated. The minute amount of aluminum salts dissolved into the skin does not result in more aluminum in breast cancer tissue than occurs in normal tissue, and there was no clear indication of an increase in rates of breast cancer amongst women who used antiperspirants. Aluminum is a mineral naturally found in food and water and commonly used in cans, cookware, cosmetics, medications, etc. However, much of the concern about aluminum comes from excess or chronic exposure to it. Because of this, avoid applying too frequently or right after shaving as one study found that these factors could increase its accumulation and breast cancer risk, likely due to nicks or abrasions creating a pathway for entry. In addition, those with kidney disease with kidneys functioning at 30% or less should avoid it due to their tendency to accumulate high levels of aluminum in their body, which can increase the risk of dementia. Notably, many antiperspirants contain other ingredients that are harmful or cause irritation and for that reason they should be avoided. Choosing formulas that refrain from parabens, artificial fragrances, mineral oil, or other pore-clogging ingredients is best to ensure optimal health. If you notice redness or discomfort after use, look for an anti-perspirant for sensitive skin which likely has a lower percentage of aluminum, and apply a small amount. People with exceptionally sensitive skin should avoid sodium bicarbonate, which can compromise the skin barrier.

If you are still concerned, you can choose an antiperspirant without aluminum if that makes you feel more comfortable. Some potassium alum-based deodorants that control odor have astringent properties that can help reduce perspiration, but may not work as effectively as mainstream aluminum based antiperspirants. Another belief is that antiperspirants’ ability to curb good bacteria beneath your armpits is also harmful. While it is true that regular antiperspirant users have a different bacteria profile than non-users, no studies indicate this is harmful at this time, and more research is needed. I am also frequently asked, “Is antiperspirant better than deodorant”? Regarding the antiperspirant vs. deodorant debate, it's not that one is better than the other; they’re actually entirely different! The antiperspirant definition refers to a substance applied under the arms to prevent or inhibit perspiration, whereas deodorant is defined as a substance that conceals or removes unpleasant body odors. Some deodorant formulas contain alcohol to acidify the skin, making it inhospitable to bacteria.

So, is anti-perspirant safe? Based on recent science backed research, the answer is yes, so long as you choose clean formulas free of harmful ingredients. While sweating does perform a temperature regulating, cooling function to the body, if it becomes troublesome, you can see a dermatologist to see if you have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) as there are prescription antiperspirants, creams, and wipes they can prescribe as well as antidepressants, botulinum toxin injections or nerve-blocking medications to help control it.


Q: Does exercise worsen acne? Why do I breakout when I sweat and work out more?

A: Can exercise affect acne? Unfortunately, while exercise doesn’t cause acne, it can increase breakouts if proper precautions aren’t taken. First, know that you are not alone in noticing that you experience more breakouts when you work out, but you can manage it.  As you produce more sweat when working out, a surge in oil production and an accumulation of dirt and bacteria occurs, creating a perfect environment for acne symptoms to escalate. The spike in heat and friction from clothing, hats, headbands, and other workout gear aggravate existing breakouts. I am also often asked, “Does exercise increase testosterone?” Absolutely! For a short time after exercising, our testosterone levels increase for approximately 15 minutes to one hour - a spike that affects young men even more. While this sex hormone is essential for good health, it is also largely responsible for oil production - the higher your testosterone levels, the more oil you will produce.

Incidentally, since testosterone-related excess oil production comes from converting into DHT, this also becomes a prime factor in hair thinning causes. For hair loss prevention concerns, natural scalp and hair health products can help preserve hair thickness. Nevertheless, the positive effects of exercise are evident. Cardiovascular workouts increase circulation and blood flow, helping preserve your skin’s vitality and tone. The resulting oxygen surge is an ally in your defense against acne. Exercise also helps improve blood sugar levels, sleep, and stress management, vital for a clear complexion. Sweating not only keeps you cool but is a means of eliminating toxins, promoting optimal health. Rather than discarding your resolve to get fit, here are some recommendations to help you stay on track with your exercise routine and keep your skin clear at the same time:

1. Cleansing your face before working out is a vital first step, especially if you wear makeup that may clog your pores.You can stow the Deluxe Trial Size CleanRefresh™ Foaming Oil Cleanser in your gym bag, as it is an effective makeup-removing cleanser. Complete the cleanse with the ProCorrective® Clear-Control Exfoliator, which is gentle enough for twice-daily use.
2. Wear clean, breathable, loose-fitting workout clothes, as bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells on unwashed gear are an acne breeding ground.
3. Sop up sweat by patting it off with a clean towel as you work out instead of swiping it away with your hands.
4. Wipe down exercise equipment before use, as it tends to harbor acne-triggering oil and bacteria. Yes, it takes extra time, but your clearer complexion is worth it!
5. Shower immediately post-workout to clear away bacteria on your body, too! You can use the Phyo-Gel Cleanser on your face and Deluxe Trial Size Anti-Stress Bath & Shower Gel (perfect for gym bags) for your body. If you suffer from “bacne” or body acne, use the salicylic acid face wash anywhere you struggle with breakouts.
6. Follow with the ProCorrective® Clear-Control Moisturizer with a super clearing complex, Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide to ensure skin health.
7. If you can’t shower right away, at least change out of workout clothes and use an alcohol free toningacne solution with a cotton pad to remove surface sweat, oil, and bacteria.
8. If you bring your phone to workouts, be sure to wipe it down with a wipe that is safe for electronics.
9. Be patient with your fitness progress and avoid supplements that boost testosterone, which can induce more breakouts.