Is your deodorant making you throw up? This might be why

From all the places you can experience a breakthrough (be it your do, chest, example or inside the nose), underarm acne is especially difficult to manage. This is because there may be more than one reason causing a breakthrough, including ingrown hair, razor burn, excessive sweating, clogged pores and even your deodorant. That's right, depending on the formula, your deodorant can play a negative role in the appearance of underarm skin rashes. To find out why and how to deal with it, we consulted with board certified dermatologist Dr. Dhawal Bhanusali.

Can your deodorant cause breakouts?

According to Bhanusali, wearing deodorant has the potential to cause skin irritation. “It's actually quite common,” he says. "Some people react to flavors or preservatives in the formula." Also common is contact dermatitis, a bumpy, itchy rash caused by an irritating or allergenic substance that comes into contact with your skin. However, if the bumps are large, itchy, painful, or leak fluid, it's best to visit a dermatologist to make sure it's not something more serious. But if you suspect your deodorant is causing a mild rash, consider switching to a formula free of common irritants. Check out these alternatives, which include fragrance-free options, natural deodorants, and aluminum-free formulas.

Best Deodorant Alternatives

Baxter of California Deodorant 

Aluminum is often used in deodorants because it blocks the pores in the armpits to temporarily stop sweating. While it may protect against odors, clogged pores can lead to breakouts. Instead, try a non-aluminum option like this one from Baxter of California. Formulated with tea tree and witch hazel extracts to rid the skin of odor causing bacteria, detoxify and condition the skin. 

Deodorant Taos Air 

This pure and eco-friendly formula is made from 100% natural ingredients derived from plants, minerals and essential oils. The silky gel texture neutralizes odor-causing bacteria and absorbs excess moisture to keep you protected even during your most intense workouts. It is available in three natural flavors including lavender myrrh, ginger grapefruit, and palo santo blood orange.

Thayers unscented deodorant

Thayers Certified Organic Witch Hazel is a natural astringent that does not contain alcohol. Combined with aloe vera extract, this deodorant spray deeply cleanses, kills bacteria, cools and refreshes the skin. It is also aluminum-free and fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Every deodorant

Made from pure and simple ingredients, Every and Every deodorants are free of potentially irritating ingredients such as aluminum, parabens, synthetic fragrances, baking soda and gluten. It is available in a whopping 13 natural flavors and is odor resistant.