Potassium Alum Deodorant Sticks: Do They Work and Are They Safe?

More and more people are switching from conventional deodorants to natural deodorant alternatives. 

One of the most popular choices is the potassium alum deodorant stick, a crystal-like mineral salt that has been used for centuries in skincare and hygiene. 

But does it actually work, and how safe is it to use every day?

What Is a Potassium Alum Deodorant Stick?

Potassium alum (also called potassium aluminium sulphate) is a naturally occurring mineral. In its deodorant form, it comes as a smooth crystal stick. To use it, you simply dampen the stick and apply it directly to clean underarms.

Unlike regular deodorants that mask odour with fragrance, potassium alum creates a natural barrier on the skin to slow down the growth of odour-causing bacteria.

How Does a Crystal Deodorant Stick Work?

A potassium alum stick doesn’t stop you sweating—it’s not an antiperspirant. Instead, it works in three main ways:

Natural odour control: It forms an invisible salt layer that reduces bacterial growth.

Allows natural sweating: You still perspire, but odour is kept under control.

Mild astringent effect: It can gently tighten pores, which may reduce dampness slightly.

Do Potassium Alum Deodorants Really Work?

The short answer: yes, for many people. But results vary depending on your body and lifestyle.

Benefits of Potassium Alum Deodorant Sticks

Long-lasting odour protection (often all day).

Fragrance-free—ideal for sensitive skin or those avoiding perfumes.

Very cost-effective—one stick can last up to a year.

Eco-friendly—many are sold plastic-free with minimal packaging.

Downsides to Be Aware Of

They don’t prevent sweating, so you may still feel damp.

Heavy sweaters might need to reapply in hot weather or after workouts.

Works best on freshly washed skin—less effective if applied after odour develops.

Is Potassium Alum Deodorant Safe?

One of the biggest questions people ask is: “Is potassium alum safe compared to aluminium in antiperspirants?”

Here’s what research shows:

Different aluminium form: Potassium alum crystals contain a larger, natural salt molecule that isn’t absorbed into the skin as easily as aluminium chlorohydrate (the form used in antiperspirants).

Low absorption risk: Studies suggest very little, if any, aluminium from potassium alum enters the body.

No added chemicals: Crystal deodorants are typically free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives.

Possible mild irritation: A small number of users may notice dryness or stinging, especially if applied to broken skin.

For most people, potassium alum sticks are considered a safe and natural deodorant choice.

How Long Does a Crystal Deodorant Stick Last?

One of the biggest advantages of using a potassium alum stick is its longevity. With daily use, a single stick can last six months to a year—far longer than a conventional roll-on or spray. This makes it both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Final Thoughts: Should You Switch to a Potassium Alum Deodorant?

If you’re looking for a natural, fragrance-free deodorant that helps control odour without blocking sweat, potassium alum deodorant sticks are a great option. They are:

Safe for most people.

Eco-friendly and long-lasting.

Effective at odour control, though not sweat prevention.

They may not suit those who want to stay completely dry, but for everyday freshness with minimal ingredients, they’re a simple and sustainable choice.

How to Access Medical Treatment Without Going to the GP

When you’re feeling unwell, your first thought may be to book an appointment with your GP. 

But in the UK, there are several other ways to access medical advice and treatment without having to wait for a doctor’s appointment. 

These services are designed to ease pressure on GP surgeries while giving patients fast, reliable care. Here are the main options available:

1. NHS 111 – Round-the-Clock Advice

NHS 111 is a free helpline available 24/7, every day of the year. You can either call 111 or use the NHS 111 online service for advice.

What it offers:

Symptom checks and guidance on what to do next.

Direct referrals to out-of-hours GPs, urgent treatment centres, or even A&E if needed.

Prescriptions sent directly to your local pharmacy in certain cases.

This is an excellent first step if you’re unsure how serious your problem is or where to go.

2. Pharmacy First – Expert Help Close to Home

Pharmacists are highly trained medical professionals who can help with more than just prescriptions. Under the Pharmacy First service (recently expanded across England), many pharmacies can now diagnose and treat minor conditions without you needing to see a GP.

Common conditions treated include:

Ear infections (in children and adults).

Impetigo (skin infection).

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women.

Shingles, sinusitis, sore throats, and more.

Pharmacists can supply prescription-only medicines under this scheme, meaning you can often walk out with the treatment you need the same day.

3. NHS Walk-In Centres

NHS walk-in clinics (sometimes called urgent treatment centres) provide care for minor injuries and illnesses, usually without an appointment.

Typical conditions they deal with include:

Sprains and strains.

Cuts, wounds, and minor burns.

Rashes and infections.

Stomach upsets and vomiting.

These centres are especially useful if you can’t get a same-day GP appointment but need help quickly.

4. Emergency Medical Units (EMUs)

Emergency Medical Units are often found within hospitals but separate from A&E. They provide urgent care for patients who are unwell and need assessment but may not require admission to hospital.

Why use them?

You may be referred here by your GP or NHS 111.

They are staffed by specialist doctors and nurses.

They can carry out tests such as blood work, ECGs, and X-rays on-site.

They act as a bridge between GP care and full hospital admission, ensuring patients get the right level of care without unnecessary delays.

When to Go to A&E

While these alternatives are great for most everyday illnesses and injuries, A&E is still the place for life-threatening emergencies such as:

Chest pain or suspected heart attack.

Stroke symptoms.

Severe bleeding or head injuries.

Breathing difficulties.

Knowing your options means you don’t always have to wait for a GP appointment to get the treatment you need. Whether it’s calling NHS 111, using Pharmacy First, visiting a walk-in clinic, or being referred to an Emergency Medical Unit, the NHS has made it easier than ever to access the right care, at the right time.

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Why Do I Have Sausage Fingers? The Top 3 Causes Explained

If you’ve ever looked down at your hands and thought your fingers seem puffier than usual, almost sausage-like, you’re not alone. 

Swollen fingers can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and sometimes worrying. 

While the term “sausage fingers” might sound light-hearted, it can point to several underlying health issues. Here are the three most common reasons.

1. Fluid Retention (Oedema)

One of the most frequent culprits is simple fluid build-up in the tissues. When your body retains water, it often shows up in your hands, ankles, and feet.

Possible triggers include:

Hot weather (blood vessels dilate and fluid leaks into tissues).

Eating too much salt.

Standing or sitting still for long stretches.

Hormonal changes (including during pregnancy).

Underlying conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver problems.

Tip: If your swelling comes and goes and is linked to heat, salt, or posture, it may not be serious. But persistent swelling should always be checked by a GP.

2. Arthritis (Especially Psoriatic Arthritis)

Arthritis is another leading cause of sausage-like fingers.

Psoriatic arthritis is particularly known for causing dactylitis, where an entire finger swells uniformly, resembling a sausage. This is due to inflammation not only in the joints but also in the tendons.

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can also lead to swelling, stiffness, and thickening of the joints, though the swelling may be more localised.

Tip: If your fingers are swollen along with stiffness, joint pain, or difficulty gripping objects, book an appointment with your GP or rheumatologist. Early treatment can prevent lasting joint damage.

3. Injury or Inflammation

Sometimes, swollen fingers are simply the result of trauma or infection.

Injuries such as sprains, fractures, or crush damage cause the body to send fluid and inflammatory cells to the site.

Infections (like paronychia around the nail or cellulitis in the finger) can make the area red, hot, and swollen.

Tip: Sudden swelling in one finger, especially if it’s painful, red, or warm to the touch, may indicate an infection that needs urgent medical attention.

Other Possible Causes

Though less common, sausage-like fingers can also be linked to:

Gout (uric acid crystals in the joints).

Allergic reactions.

Thyroid disease.

Autoimmune conditions like scleroderma.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if your finger swelling:

Comes on suddenly without explanation.

Is painful, red, or associated with fever.

Persists for more than a few days.

Is accompanied by other symptoms such as skin changes, breathlessness, or severe joint pain.

Final Word

While sausage fingers might sometimes be caused by something as simple as heat or salty food, they can also point to more serious conditions like arthritis or infection. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to get checked out. Your hands work hard for you, so don’t ignore what they might be trying to tell you.

Negative Calorie Foods – Healthy Helper or Just Hype?

The phrase “negative calorie foods” often crops up in dieting advice. The claim is that certain foods, including celery, cucumber, grapefruit, and lettuce, use up more calories during chewing, digestion, and absorption than they actually provide.

It sounds like the dream: eat as much as you like and still lose weight.

But is it true?

The Science Behind the Claim

When you eat, your body burns energy to digest and process food — this is called the thermic effect of food (TEF). On average, TEF accounts for around 5–15% of the calories you consume. 

While fibrous, water-rich foods like celery are very low in calories, research shows that no food actually takes more energy to digest than it contains.

So the idea of “negative calorie foods” is more myth than fact.

The Benefits of These Foods

Even if they aren’t truly “negative calorie,” the foods on these lists are still valuable:

Low in calories – Great for weight management when used as snacks or side dishes.

High in fibre and water – Promote satiety, regulate digestion, and support gut health.

Packed with nutrients – Grapefruit provides vitamin C, broccoli offers folate and antioxidants, and leafy greens support heart and bone health.

Encourages healthy habits – Choosing cucumber sticks or an apple over crisps or biscuits reduces overall calorie intake.

The Downsides of the Myth

False promises – Believing in “magic foods” can distract from the importance of balanced eating.

Nutrient gaps – Over-relying on very low-calorie foods could leave you short of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.

Digestive discomfort – Eating large amounts of raw, fibrous veg can cause bloating in some people.

Unsustainable approach – Diets built on restriction or gimmicks rarely last long-term.

A Balanced Approach

The real takeaway is this: while negative calorie foods don’t exist, low-calorie, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables can play a central role in healthy eating. Instead of chasing myths, it’s better to:

Fill half your plate with vegetables.

Pair them with lean proteins, wholegrains, and healthy fats.

Use fruit and veg as additions rather than miracle cures.

Sustainable health comes from overall balance — not from hoping celery sticks undo a slice of cake.

To learn more please visit our sister site That's Food and Drink:- https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2025/08/negative-calorie-foods-myth-or.html