Lavera Blog

What's in Your Toothpaste?

Richard Huston — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:12:21 +0000

You may be well aware of what your moisturizer or body wash contains, but other personal care items tend to get overlooked. Like your toothpaste.

Have you picked up the toothpaste on your bathroom counter and looked at the ingredient listing? Do you see Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)? How about Propylene Glycol? Fluoride? And just because the label says it is "natural" does not mean it is necessarily safe. Even some natural toothpastes contain harmful ingredients.

Harsh cleansers, toxic fluoride, chemical preservatives, and artificial colors and flavorings. These are what you don't want in your toothpaste.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is a foaming agent commonly added to conventional toothpastes but is also found in some natural toothpastes. SLS gives the paste "sudsiness" which some people associate with an extra clean feeling. But this harsh cleanser can irritate delicate tissue and has been known to cause mouth sores and sensitivity. It is also a penetration enhancer which allows other chemical ingredients to more easily absorb into the system.

Propylene glycol (or related ingredients PEG (polyethylene glycol) and PPG (polypropylene glycol) is added to certain products to give them a more solid consistency without becoming dry, like deodorant or toothpaste. But this ingredient is derived from petroleum, a known carcinogen, and can easily absorb into the system. It is also used in anti-freeze and floor wax. Not exactly what we want to put into our mouths on a daily basis.

Buy One Baby Toothpaste Strawberry / Raspberry Fluoride Free and Get a Second One Free! *Expires Jan 14th!

Fluoride is a controversial issue. Dentists swear by this ingredient for its cavity-diminishing properties, and recommend children and adults use fluoride-containing toothpaste. It is added to most mouthwash, and you can even buy bottled water that contains fluoride. But this toxic ingredient has also been found to exacerbate acne and other skin conditions. And it accumulates in the bones over time and is thought to weaken them, causing certain ailments and even cancer.

Synthetic colorants and flavors are added to toothpastes to entice both children and adults into using them. It has actually become difficult to find a plain white toothpaste, free from fluoride, chemical whiteners, and other toxic ingredients.

Toxic synthetic ingredients are not only unnecessary for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums, but irritating and harmful to your health. Fluoride-free toothpaste made from plant extracts, natural minerals and essential oils fight bacteria, protect teeth and gums, and freshen mouth naturally. Our selection of nontoxic toothpastes contain healthy natural ingredients to provide safe yet effective cleansing for you and your family.

Lavera's Kid's Toothpaste Strawberry/Raspberry protects against plaque and cavities gently with natural orthosilicic acid, and the yummy flavor will be a hit.

Ingredient Listings, Who's Got Your Back?

Richard Huston — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:37:29 +0000

Natural. Organic. Green. All of these monikers are commonly found on cosmetic products, but who do you trust?

Currently the government does very little as far as protecting consumers and workers from harmful chemical ingredients used to make cosmetics. This means that awareness and education are the best ways to look out for the health of yourself and your family. The current dilemma over the use of the Brazilian Blowout hair treatment, and the FDA's delayed warning, is a prime example.

The Brazilian Blowout (hair smoothing treatment) was called out last year when the Oregon Health and Science University's Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology and Oregon OSHA received a complaint from a stylist suffering from nosebleeds, breathing problems and eye irritation after using the treatment. Subsequent testing showed the product contained up to 10.4 % formaldehyde (linked to many health issues, including cancer). OSHA requires formaldehyde to be listed on product safety materials at levels exceeding 0.1 percent, Brazilian Blowout is well over the mark.

While Canada and other countries pulled Brazilian Blowout and similar products from shelves last year, it took the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) an entire year to come to action. And they still cannot require salons to quit using the product, even when the ingredient in question is one of the most toxic.

A letter was sent last month to Brazilian Blowout officials from the FDA saying that testing showed up to 10% of the formula to be a liquid form of formaldehyde (methylene glycol). The FDA has asked for a response from the officials.

Why not pull from the shelves products with known harmful ingredients that have already been deemed unsafe by other countries such as Canada or the EU?

Due to outdated cosmetics laws the FDA does not have the power to issue a mandatory recall of the products. They can, however, issue a voluntary recall.

While this may be a step in the right direction, it does very little to help right now. Salons across the country continue to use the treatment, A-list celebs among the followers.

Of course, if a highly toxic ingredient like formaldehyde (The Environmental Working Group (EWG) gives it a hazard score of 10, very high) can be used so freely, you can be sure that an array of nasty chemicals are being used to make cosmetics lining our store shelves.

Your best defense against harmful cosmetic ingredients is reading product labels and following brands you can trust. Educate yourself on the companies who produce the cosmetics that you use and watch for red flags. Hard to find or incomplete ingredient listings are always suspect.

Use your purchasing power wisely — buy and use products you know are good for you and your family. Lavera products are 100% free from harmful ingredients, and contain healthy natural and organic ingredients. You can find complete and easy to read ingredient listing for each Lavera product.

There are other, healthier, ways to manage curl or frizz. Enhance your natural texture with products that keep hair healthy and gorgeous with pure ingredients. As with skin care, knowing your unique hair care needs goes a long way toward keeping your mane beautiful.

Start the School Year Right

Richard Huston — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 22:54:08 +0000

Every parent knows it is important to start the school year with their children feeling confident and healthy. We participate yearly in the "Back to School" shopping rituals — buying pencils, computers, clothing and other supplies, but this year Lavera wanted to promote the idea of sending children to school feeling good about their skin and hair — and most importantly, feeling healthy.

Studies have shown that up to 60% of what you put on your skin (face, body and hair) goes DIRECTLY INTO YOUR BLOODSTREAM in just a matter of seconds. What goes into YOUR bloodstream can accumulate in the body and affect organ function, hormonal activity, etc. It is paramount to know what you are putting on your skin!

When you order lunch, you don't say, "I'd like a side of formaldehyde with that please". If you won't ingest it, why would you want to put chemicals on your skin? Topically applied parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, synthetic sunscreen ingredients artificial colors and man-made fragrances can be absorbed and build up to levels that impact the health of your children. They irritate the skin, cause breakouts and many are known or suspected to be carcinogenic.

Toxins accumulate in the body over time with repeated use. In time this "pollution" can manifest itself in our children in the form of apathy, depression, poor grades and concentration problems (link for this?). In the worst cases, they may lead to Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (blog link) asthma and even cancer. Parabens, for example, may influence breast cancer and is known to affect the development of fetuses. The growing correlations between our health and the toxins in the food and skin/hair care we use is impossible to ignore.

So why, as parents, would we buy our children the $3.99 chemical lipgloss from the local drugstore and a pop-tart for breakfast? As consumers we know to read the labels. We know to eat organic. We know better than to buy products made with toxins. So what to do?

Start them off right!

We now know the benefits of eating organic foods and using organic cleaning products. Even the slow moving, cost-conscious school systems have taken a leaning toward organic food, natural cleaning products and to introducing less toxins into student environments. The natural extension of this is to replace our children's skin and hair care products with more natural and effective alternatives.

Self-confidence comes from feeling and looking your best. This is an especially powerful force in the lives of teenagers. Acne, eczema, dry and chemically damaged hair contribute to poor self-esteem — which directly correlates with poor grades and social participation in teenagers.

Many of these skin conditions are caused or made worse by undiagnosed reactions to various chemical additives in skin and hair care products. Lavera's founder and owner, Thomas Haase originally developed the Lavera brand to treat his own severe childhood dermatitis. He often had terrible reactions to various pharmaceutical products and synthetic ingredients. These irritations plagued him throughout his school years and inspired him to create a better choice made from natural ingredients for sensitive skin.

Healthy habits, healthy choices

Lavera (which means "the truth") was founded in 1987, and represents a philosophy and commitment to the purest organic ingredients and the absence of synthetic preservatives, additives, petroleum-based ingredients, emulsifiers, colors and fragrances. In order to assure skin tolerance, human volunteers test the products with dermatologist supervision — no animal testing is performed.

Lavera's organic beauty products effectively work in harmony with your skin’s natural functions to make you look and feel your absolute best. And they work! Consumers in Europe have bought into organics — Lavera holds 1/5th of all natural skincare sales in Europe and is increasing in popularity here in the U.S. as consumers are learning that what you put on your body can be just as harmful as what you put in your body.

Start your children off right, start the school year right — present your children with a lifestyle that includes healthy activities, organic food, and natural cosmetics and skin care! To help start the school year right for you and your children, Lavera is offering a site-wide Back-to-School Sale of 15% off beginning August 20th, until Labor Day (August 5th). Use Promo Code LABORDAY15 at checkout.

Revitalize Skin with the Fresh Scents of Summer

Gigi Baker — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 23:50:02 +0000

Summertime elements: sun, chlorine, sand, and salt all take a toll on skin. Time spent outdoors depletes skin of moisture, resulting in dryness and roughness. Dry, rough skin not only looks less healthy, but older too.

You can enjoy summer fun and keep skin healthy and beautiful; all you need is the right summertime skincare regimen. What is the best way to revitalize summer-weary skin? Lavera Body SPA Products are the answer to parched skin!

Start off by replenishing your skin with Lavera's Body SPA Shower Gels and Lotions. Chemical bath gels deprive your skin of its natural moisture barrier. However Lavera organic bath gels cleanse gently without stripping away natural oils keeping skin soft and supple. Made with mild cleansers, Lavera's SPA Body Show Gels refresh and tone the skin while removing dirt and impurities.

The best way to get skin silky smooth is with a mild exfoliant. Indulge skin further with Lavera Body SPA Scrubs. A couple times per week, apply a quarter size amount of Body Scrub and gently, using a circular motion slough dead skin cells and peeling skin off.

After toweling off, re-hydrate skin by applying your favorite Lavera Body SPA Lotion. All natural and organic ingredients help replace moisture lost by being out in the sun. Each of the six-summer fresh scents individually hydrates, restores elasticity and luster, softens and calms dry skin; plus they smell delicious!

Going barefoot and wearing sandals during the summer can make our feet calloused and dry. Use Lavera Body SPA Bath Salts to help your feet and dry skin look their best. Soaking in a tub of bath salts helps softens calloused skin and aids in exfoliation. Lavera Body SPA Bath Salts combine Fleur De Sal and coarse-grained sea salt crystals with natural essential oils for the ultimate in luxury. Simply add Bath Salts to running water and enjoy. You can also use a pumus at this time; you will have soft feet for days!

Finish your bath time routine with Lavera Body SPA Natural Deodorants. Natural deodorants actually provide longer lasting odor control than the synthetic variety and you can feel good knowing only healthy ingredients are applied to your skin. Lavera soft roll-on deodorant is aluminum and alcohol-free and will not clog pores or irritate the skin. Lavera Spa deodorants minimize perspiration and absorb wetness with natural bamboo and cotton fibers. Bamboo has proven antibacterial properties to help combat odor, and its soft, smooth composition makes it an ideal ingredient for sensitive skin.

Either choose your favorite fabulous scent or pick the product for your specific need. For anti aging choose Orange-Sea Buckthorn, for inflammation use Lavender-Aloe or Wild Rose. Milk & Honey and Vanilla Coconut are strong re-hydrators for extremely dry skin. For antiseptic, astringent properties use Vervain-Lime, (great for teenage boys; as I speak from experience!) The Lavera Body SPA line is made with pure plant extracts, organic ingredients and all-natural fragrances for the finest at-home spa experience.

New FDA Rulings on Water Resistant Sunscreen

Gigi Baker — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 17:49:24 +0000

Waterproof... Sweatproof... Sunblock... These terms are so widely used on sunscreen labels that we have become blind to their meaning. Many consumers grab the bottle with the most "proofs" and the highest SPF and call it good.

Well, this no-brainer mindset when it comes to sunscreens will soon be a thing of the past. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on June 14, 2011 new requirements for all over-the-counter sunscreens. These new regulations are aimed at improving the effectiveness of sunscreen products currently being sold, and make them easier for consumers to identify and use.

The new FDA sunscreen requirements address UVA and UVB protection, as well as the water and sweat proof claims. Certain terms like (you guessed it!) "waterproof", "sweatproof" and "sunblock" will no longer be permitted on sunscreen labels, as the FDA sees these claims as misleading. The new terminology you will come to recognize will be "water resistant" and "very water resistant".

What is the new water resistant requirement?

In these new rules, which go into effect next year, water resistance claims on product labels must state how long the user can expect the specified SPF protection to hold up while swimming or sweating. Manufacturers are allowed to claim how long their products are water resistant, based on standard testing.

A sunscreen claiming to be water resistant must pass third party testing. This test involves applying sunscreent to human volunteers. After at least 15 minutes of drying time, the volunteer is immersed to mid-back in gently flowing water between 25 and 32 degrees celsius. The subject stays immersed in water for 20 minutes, followed by 20 minutes of drying period. This is repeated again for a total of 40 minutes of water immersion, for the 40 minute claim. The actual effectiveness of the sunscreen after the 40 minutes of water immersion is then measured. This is the SPF that can then be printed on the bottle of the sunscreen that claims 40 minutes of water resistance. Very resistant tests would repeat until a total of 80 minutes immersion is reached.

If a product carries no water resistance claims, the label must advise users to apply a water resistant sunscreen while swimming or sweating.

European water resistance testing standard was defined in 2005 and are similar - there is a 40 minute and an 80 minute test. The drying time between immersions is 15 minutes. Temperature is 29 degrees celsius +/- 2 degrees. To claim water resistance, the SPF efficacy after immersion must be greater or equal to 50% at the 90% confidence interval.

So, how often should you really reapply?

At least every 2 hours, according to the FDA. If a product is labeled "water resistant" reapply after 40 minutes of vigorous activity in water, after 80 for "very water resistant". Same goes if you have been sweating a lot or towel dry. Remember: It is always better to be safe than sorry. Here are sun safety tips straight from the FDA:

Use sunscreens with broad spectrum SPF values of 15 or higher regularly and as directed.
Limit time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun's rays are most intense.
Wear clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun; for example, long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats.
Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, more often if you're sweating or jumping in and out of the water.

What about SPF?

The FDA has proposed capping SPF values at 50, unless the manufacturer can provide information supporting a higher number. This is due to no solid data showing SPF higher than 50 provides any further protection. Right now there are sunscreens on the market offering 100 SPF or higher. SPF covers damage from UVB rays, the ones that cause sunburn. But the new FDA regulations require a sunscreen claiming to be "broad spectrum" to be tested for protection against the more harmful UVA rays, linked to premature aging and skin cancer. Products which protect against both UVA and UVB will be labeled "broad spectrum".

The European Union was a step ahead of the FDA, implementing its own UVA testing for 2009 and newer sunscreens. This required that the level of UVA protection be 1/3 of the SPF printed on the bottle. This had the effect of lowering the SPF value that was displayed on sunscreens across the European Union but guaranteed that people were protected adequately against UVA rays, which comprise 90% of all rays we get from the sun. These same UVA rays contribute to skin cancer and premature skin aging, whereas UVB rays (the SPF shown on US sunscreens) contribute to sunburn. Sunscreens meeting this requirement sport a round UVA logo, as seen on all Lavera sunscreens.

Which sunscreens provide the best sun protection?

Mineral Sunscreens containing healthy oils and waxes are naturally more water resistant. Lavera Sunscreens are made with a blend of Titanium and Zinc Oxide and provide serious sun protection and water resistance. Organic Soybean oil, Sunflower oil, Sweet Almond oil, and Jojoba oil boost water resistance and nurture skin. These oils also create a smoother application.

The new FDA guidelines come into effect next summer. In the meantime, Lavera's sunscreens already meet the stringent European broad spectrum requirements and outperforms many higher rated US sunscreens while providing safe, non-toxic and water resistant protection.

Deep Conditioning: The Secret Weapon Against Fly-aways and Frizz

Gigi Baker — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:54:25 +0000

Summer's essential elements - sun, wind, pool, beach - are all part of the fun. They are also the main reasons for dry, dull, unmanageable hair this time of year.

If you are battling the summer hair blahs Lavera Mango Milk Hair Treatment will rescue your tresses and restore them back to good health. Mango Milk…doesn't that just sound refreshing?

Lavera Mango Milk Hair Treatment is a thick and rich remedy for hair in need of repair. Mango fruit extract restores flexibility and helps hair to retain moisture. Organic Mango extract, along with Organic Green Tea extract, also helps to protect against free radical damage.

We have also added richly hydrating oils, like Coconut and Avocado, to provide luster-enriching moisture without weighing hair down. These easily absorbed oils are backed up by Cocoa and Shea butter to seal in moisture and provide further protection from drying elements.

Cotton flower extracts are our secret weapon against fly-aways and frizz, smoothing stressed hair and lending brilliant shine. ProVitamin B5 binds to strands, improving bounce and elasticity.

While Mango Milk Hair Treatment is very beneficial for color-treated hair (protecting color from fading), this intensive conditioner is perfect for all hair types. Will not weigh down fine locks, yet easily penetrates coarse and dry hair.

Our Mango Milk Hair Treatment Kit, which includes 5 Mango Milk Hair Treatment Sachets, is perfect for on-the-go-summer months. Hydrate and repair worn down locks with this deep conditioning treatment -- the answer to dry, dull hair. Each sachet is good for 1-3 uses, and stows easily into your makeup bag, purse, or beach bag.

New and Improved Lavera Self Tanner for Face & Body

Richard Huston — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0000

The carefree days of summer are here. But it can be difficult to feel confident in shorts and bathing suits when your skin is pale. An actual sun tan, which brings along health risks and premature aging, is not a suitable solution.

Lavera has the answer to your pale skin woes with New Self Tanning Lotion. Same great look and feel of the original, with a few added benefits.

Lavera Self Tanning Lotion is nontoxic, fast-acting, and super natural looking. You do not have to worry about streaks, orange-ness, or harsh chemicals with this natural sunless tanner. Made with Organic Soy extracts and naturally-derived sugars our tanner works by creating a nontoxic reaction on the top layer of skin, creating a tanned look. No need for two separate products, our new self tanner is designed for both face and body.

We have added Organic Macadamia Nut oil to our Self Tanning Lotion for superior hydration and skin-smoothing action. Macadamia Nut oil is closely matched to our skin’s own sebum, making it suitable for all skin types. This oil is lightly hydrating and lends a “cushiony" effect to skin, creating a soft and supple look. Macadamia Nut oil also holds regenerative properties and high amounts of antioxidants, providing anti-aging action.

The new formulation is faster absorbing and carries a lighter citrusy scent. Simply apply to clean, exfoliated skin and allow a few minutes to absorb before dressing. Results show in just a few hours and fade away naturally.

A great looking tan, healthy ingredients, and no sun damage. Looks like you’ve found your summer staple in New Lavera Self Tanning Lotion for Face & Body.

Lavera Mascaras, A Smart Choice for Sensitive Eyes

Gigi Baker — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0000

Our line of mascaras are designed to be very gentle on even the most sensitive eyes, and all products are safe for contact lens wearers. Choosing the right mascara is easy with Lavera safe, natural, and beautiful mascaras.

We know that mascara is a very important (if not the most important) component in many women's beauty routine. Not too thick, not too thin, non-irritating, and that just-right color all add up to the perfect mascara.

But different women, different lashes, and different looks all need different mascaras. That is why we at Lavera offer a wide selection of lash trimmings — from volumizing, to lengthening, and even a hit of color.

Lavera brand is formulated for gentleness, using only the safest and highest quality natural and organic ingredients available. Our products are BDIH Certified Natural and we have two vegan options with Volume Mascara No. 1 Black and Volume Mascara No. 2 Blue.

Lavera Mascaras are made with earth-pure minerals for deep, intense color. Natural plant oils lend super smooth application and non-clumping texture. Our mascaras offer all day color and volume, no annoying flaking or melting.

And we have something to fit every need, look, or desire. Have full lashes that are a bit on the stubby side? Go for Long Lash Mascara in Black to lengthen. Do your long lashes need a little oomph? You are looking for Intense Volumizing Mascara in Black to pump up the volume. Maybe you are looking for overall lengthening and volumizing? Double Black Mascara with two different brushes to create length and fullness is the one for you. And our customer favorite Volume Mascara with silky smooth color and coverage is perfect for any lash type. Volume Mascara comes in both basic Black and brilliant Blue.

Lavera Safe and Gentle Toothpaste for Kids

Gigi Baker — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 17:27:35 +0000

Lavera Safe and Gentle Toothpaste for Kids

Summer Savings, SLS Free Natural Toothpaste Sale - 15% Off. Ends Labor Day September 5th, 2011. Prices already marked down!

Getting kids started early on oral care is very important in maintaining their overall health. And we all know that good habits start young.

But with so many toothpastes lining the shelves today it can seem impossible to muddle your way through them. It seems each label promises whitening, tartar control, cavity prevention, and the list goes on, when all we really want is a safe and gentle toothpaste for our tots.

Most conventional toothpaste contains a range of unhealthy ingredients that you really do not need for healthy teeth and gums. Flouride is added to everything from toothpaste and mouthwash, to soda and drinking water. This practice began in the 1950's in an effort to decrease the frequency of dental decay, but it comes with unwanted negative effects.

Fluoride is a toxic substance which accumulates in the bones over time. Fluoride is thought to possibly aggravate acne and other skin conditions, weaken the bones, and has been linked to certain forms of cancer.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is also commonly used in conventional toothpaste to cause the foaming action, which manufacturers believe gives that extra clean feeling. You actually do not need this foam to get teeth and gums clean, and you certainly do not need the SLS. SLS is not only a skin irritant, but is absorbed into the body and certain organs, causing possible health risks. Scientists believe it is especially concerning when used by children.

Many toothpastes contain artificial colors and fragrance to entice children into using them. Go to the dentist and your child will most likely come home with a tube of bright blue, bubblegum flavored toothpaste with sparkles. Sparkles?! These pretty colors and fancy flavors are made up of synthetic ingredients and sugars, are completely unhealthy and unnecessary, and most children don't really even care to use them once the novelty wears off. Would you want to start your day with a mouthful of bubblegum flavored goop?

The good news is - you don't need all of those nasty chemicals to keep your children's teeth and gums healthy. And you don't need the silly colors or flavors to get them to use it. Once they taste the mild berry flavor in Lavera Strawberry/Raspberry Toothpaste, they will be hooked and the healthy ingredients can do their job.

We make Lavera Strawberry/Raspberry Toothpaste, designed especially for babies and children, without fluoride, sugars, SLS, or artificial colors. Instead we have added Silica and Dead Sea Salt for super gentle, yet effective cleansing. Organic Calendula is soothing to tender gums.

This product is also vegan and safe to swallow. Apply a small amount to a children's size toothbrush or finger brush, and gently massage teeth and gums two to three times per day.

You will love the natural-ness of our Strawberry/Raspberry Toothpaste, and your kids will love the flavor...and that it is just for them.

Summer Savings, SLS Free Natural Toothpaste Sale - 15% Off. Ends Labor Day September 5th, 2011. Prices already marked down!

Safe, Healthy, Effective - Wonderful Smelling Deodorants by Lavera

Gigi Baker — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0000

Though most conventionally produced personal care products can easily be switched out for organic products, certain items still receive a skeptical response from consumers. Organic deodorants are often met with more uncertainty than other body care products. This wary reaction is most likely due to our familiarity with antiperspirants and the way they perform. Most women have used deodorant for years without a second thought. It's time to rethink switching to a organic deodorant without aluminum and other harmful ingredients as parabens, propylene glycol, synthetic fragrance and petrochemicals. The real danger is that antiperspirants and deodorants are products the majority of us apply each and every day. So, we are constantly exposed to these harmful chemicals.

Aluminum salts are a form of metal and work by blocking the pores that produce perspiration, hence their use in anti-perspirants. They may be listed in the ingredients on the bottle as aluminum chlorohydrate or aluminum zirconium. While this may give us a sense of security where dryness is concerned, aluminum is considered a neurotoxin that can potentially cause DNA damage. Aluminum salts is listed in The Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Database as a human nervous system toxicant. Studies have also shown that aluminum salts mimic estrogen in our bodies and have been found in their intact forms in the tumors of breast cancer patients. And breast cancer is not the only disease linked to aluminum. The ingredient is also suspected of increasing risk of Alzheimer's Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia. Scientists have found plaques in the brains of some patients suffering from the disease, and research is beginning to show that aluminum may contribute to the formation of plaques in the human brain. This doesn't make you feel so secure once you know what goes into most popular storebrand deoderants!

There are safer alternatives and though they may not behave like the products you are used to, your body will adjust to the natural ingredients. Natural deodorants actually provide longer lasting odor control than the synthetic variety and you can feel good knowing only healthy ingredients are applied to your skin. Lavera soft roll-on deodorant is aluminum and alcohol-free and will not clog pores or irritate the skin. Lavera Spa deodorants minimizes perspiration and absorb wetness with natural bamboo and cotton fibers. Bamboo has proven antibacterial properties to help combat odor, and its soft, smooth composition makes it an ideal ingredient for sensitive skin. Lavera uses organic extracts from fennel and calendula to provide a clean, fresh scent. All that uncertainty about switching to an effective organic deodorant can be laid to rest. Lavera Deodorant Roll-on comes in four appealing scents in the Body Spa line: Milk & Honey, Vervain & Lime, Wild Rose, Orange-Sea Buckthorn. And there is the long-standing customer favorite Basis deodorant as well.

You may still be concerned about the wetness factor. The bottom line is that most over-the-counter antiperspirants will not keep you bone dry in a pulse pounding situation. And even if you do sweat a little bit, which is the body's natural way of keeping cool, you will smell fresher when using a product with natural ingredients than those with chemical scents.

Tip: If you are truly in need of added dryness protection try patting on a small amount of baking soda after you have applied the roll-on. This should help to absorb excess moisture.

Natural deodorants are a healthy way to stay fresh all day.