The harmful impact that aerosol deodorants can cause to the natural environment has been well documented. However the chemicals released into the home environment every time we spray could pose a risk to our own health too. Recently, deodorant sprays have been linked to a series of health problems including asthma, headaches and eczema. In some rare cases, use of aerosols has even been linked to the death of teenagers who have died from heart problems after excessive use of the deodorants.
The charity Allergy UK says that around one in three adults in the UK has some form of allergic disease such as asthma, rhinitis or eczema. These conditions may all be aggravated by inhaling the chemicals found in aerosol deodorants.
Problems are more likely to arise when spraying deodorants in a confined space such as a bathroom or a bedroom – especially if the doors and windows are closed. Although canisters have warnings not to use excessively and not to use in confined spaces, deodorants are so commonplace that most people don’t think to read the instructions before liberally spraying their favourite product.
If you can’t give up your favourite deodorant but want to avoid potential problems caused by aerosols then try switching to roll-on versions. Alternatively, when spraying an aerosol canister keep a window open and only spray in small bursts.
The British Aerosol Manufacturers Association (BAMA) points out that aerosol products have been used safely for 40 years. You can find out more at their website: www.bama.co.uk or for more information about allergies, visit: www.allergyuk.org
