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Does Deodorant Cause Cancer?
July 08, 2025
It’s a question that’s been circling for years: Can deodorant cause cancer?
Ingredients like aluminum, parabens and fragrance have raised the alarm, with some people claiming they can be absorbed through the skin and disrupt hormones or cause cancer, especially breast cancer.
But does the evidence support that?
We asked Heather King, MD, with the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, to break it down.
But first – where did the concern come from?
Since the early 2000s, there’s been talk of deodorant and antiperspirant being linked to breast cancer.
One common claim? That blocking sweat glands traps toxins in the body.
But here’s the reality.
“There’s no credible evidence that either deodorant or antiperspirant increases your cancer risk,” says Dr. King. “Numerous studies have looked at this, without finding a clear link.”
In fact, the American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and FDA have all stated that there’s no proven connection between the two.
> Related: 10 Tips to Prevent Cancer
What about aluminum or parabens?
Many deodorants contain aluminum compounds, which temporarily block sweat glands. Some also contain parabens, a type of preservative.
Some worry that these ingredients could be absorbed into the skin and mimic estrogen, a hormone that plays a role in some types of breast cancer.
But research hasn’t supported that.
“There’s been no real evidence that aluminum or parabens cause cancer in humans,” says Dr. King. “And importantly, the body has natural mechanisms to detoxify and eliminate these substances.”
Still concerned?
“You can always choose a natural deodorant, which doesn’t have these ingredients,” says Dr. King. “But do it for your peace of mind – not because it’s reducing your cancer risk.”
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So what does help lower cancer risk?
Rather than giving up deodorant, try looking at your overall lifestyle.
“Your everyday choices have a bigger impact than any one product,” says Dr. King.
Try starting with these proven habits:
- Avoid tobacco in all forms.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Get regular exercise — at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.
- Limit alcohol and avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Keep up with recommended screenings, like mammograms, colonoscopies and skin checks.
“These are the habits that move the needle,” says Dr. King. “Worrying about deodorant is understandable — but in terms of impact, it’s low on the list.”