What's the difference between antiperspirants and deodorant?

Most people use the terms antiperspirant and deodorant interchangeably, the two are not the same. Antiperspirants work by preventing perspiration from occurring (with Aluminum). Deodorants allow perspiration, but block odor. Deodorants accomplish this by killing the bacteria that cause odor. From a purely natural standpoint, it makes more sense for us to use deodorants, as it is a more natural process.

Personally, I'm not looking to completely stop sweating.

Sweating is actually good for us. It's a natural function of the human body. It helps to regulate our body temperature and balance our salt levels.  Also, sweat doesn't actually have an odor. The foul smell that comes from sweating under your arms comes from bacteria on the skin's surface. 

The problem with antiperspirants is that they contain a host of chemical ingredients that some feel are potentially harmful to your health. To block the sweat under your arms, antiperspirants use aluminum compounds to clog the skin's pores. These compounds have been under fire in recent years as being tied to breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease. While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), says that there is no proven link to these diseases, many consumers still prefer to exercise caution in using these kinds of antiperspirants.

The bottom line is, each of us has to take the initiative and actively seek out the products that are healthier for us.  As for me, no Aluminum, thank you!