TV doctor Dr Hilary Jones has dismissed concerns that deodorant poses serious health risks, including links to breast cancer and dementia, as the UK braces for a 40C red alert heatwave. Appearing on ITV's Lorraine, Dr Jones addressed fears over chemicals such as parabens and aluminium found in deodorants, which have prompted some celebrities like Charlotte Church to stop using them.
Dr Hilary's Verdict on Deodorant Safety
Speaking to host Ruth Langsford, Dr Jones said: "There’s been a lot in the papers about, you know, is deodorant unsafe? It contains parabens. It contains aluminium. The amount that’s absorbed into the skin is minuscule and there’s no credible scientific evidence that it is dangerous to health or linked with breast cancer." He acknowledged public concern but urged caution during the hot weather: "On hot, sweaty days like we’re going to have, it probably is kinder to everybody else just to be, you know, if you don’t use the odour, at least have a little wash."
Heatwave Prompts Sweat Concerns
The Met Office has issued a red heat health warning as temperatures are set to reach 40C in some areas this week, leading to increased perspiration and deodorant use. The debate over deodorant safety has resurfaced amid these conditions, with Dr Jones downplaying the risks.
Mitchum Apologises for Skin Reactions
Earlier this year, manufacturer Mitchum apologised to customers after reports of rashes, bumps, and burning linked to some of its roll-on deodorants. Social media users on TikTok shared experiences of redness and irritation after using the brand’s 48-hour roll-on anti-perspirant. Mitchum UK confirmed the issue was due to a change in the manufacturing process affecting one raw material. A spokesperson said: "We are aware of reports from some customers regarding reactions to select batches... Consumer wellbeing is always our priority, and we are truly sorry some of our customers have experienced temporary irritation." The company has reverted to the original manufacturing process and is removing affected stock.
Scientific Consensus on Deodorant and Cancer
Writing for the BBC, Dr Saleyha Ahsan noted: "Stopping yourself from sweating does not cause a build-up of toxins... Big studies looking for links between using antiperspirants or deodorants and cancer have found none." She added that women are advised against using aluminium-containing deodorants before breast screening not due to health risks, but because they can show up on X-rays.
