Can You Wear Deodorant for an MRI Scan?
When your doctor orders an MRI, questions arise around what you can wear and bring with you for the scan. Since deodorants and antiperspirants provide daily hygiene essentials, you may wonder if these are allowed during the MRI procedure.
Why the MRI Restricts Certain Products
MRI scanners generate powerful magnetic fields measured in strength of Tesla units. Typical machines operate at 1.5-3 Tesla, with newer models ranging from 3-7 Tesla. For comparison, the average refrigerator magnet rates around .01 Tesla!
These intense MRI magnets can interact with and attract metallic objects. If brought into the scanning room, metal materials can turn into dangerous projectiles. The magnetic pull also compromises image quality and heating of certain metals can cause skin burns.
That’s why MRI facilities prohibit anything potentially reactive around the magnet, including personal care items like deodorant. The question lies in whether formulas contain metallic ingredients that pose problems.
Do Deodorants and Antiperspirants Contain Metal?
Most commercial deodorants and antiperspirants include some form of aluminum in their ingredient lists. Aluminum salts like aluminum chloride, aluminum chlorohydrate, and aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex glycine complexes work to plug sweat glands and keep underarms dry.
These reactive aluminum compounds easily get pulled toward MRI magnets. The metals can blur imaging, be sucked with great force toward the machine, or heat up and blister skin.
Other concerning ingredients in conventional deodorants and antiperspirants are parabens, triclosan, propylene glycol, and synthetic fragrances. These absorb through skin and can accumulate in breast tissue near MRI imaging zones.
Safer Deodorant Alternatives for MRI Exams
Rather than risk reactions, choose an eco-friendly natural deodorant without aluminum salts or questionable chemicals. Or better yet — go without! Since MRI appointments rarely last over an hour, skipping deodorant application for a day won’t impact hygiene.
If you want some extra odor protection, look for stick, cream or spray formulas with non-reactive ingredients like:
- Baking soda
- Magnesium hydroxide
- Potassium alum
- Sodium bicarbonate
- Beeswax
- Coconut oil
- Shea butter
- Essential oils
These natural mineral salts, waxes, butters and botanical extracts keep you fresh without posing safety issues. Or you can easily make your own formula at home. Just mix a few antimicrobial ingredients like baking soda and coconut oil for a custom creation.
Other Personal Care Products to Avoid Before an MRI
Along with swapping deodorants, take inventory of your other grooming products when prepping for MRI scanning:- Makeup — Iron oxide pigments, glitter, and minerals like mica in eye shadow, blush, and powder can interfere.
- Hair products — Hair sprays and other styling products may contain flammable ingedients.
- Skin care — Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers and cleansers to avoid clogging images.
- Piercings — Remove all metal body jewelry ahead of time.
- Tattoos & tatto ink — Alert technicians to location and age of tattoos since iron oxide-based ink can heat up and distort scans.
By identifying anything potentially reactive ahead of time, you’ll sail through MRI prep smoothly. Double check guidelines or ask questions when scheduling to determine current protocols allowed.
What to Wear During an MRI Appointment
MRI facilities stock hospital gowns or scrubs for required wardrobe during scans. But if you prefer wearing your own clothes, certain outfit guidelines apply for safety and optimal imaging.
Choose Loose, Comfortable Garments
Since you must lie perfectly still in a narrow tube for up to 90 minutes, prioritize comfort. Flowy separates like soft pants and a sleeveless top allow you to relax into position. Form-fitting clothes often feel binding or tight when holding a pose.
The technician will also ask you to remove any metal on clothing, like buttons or zippers, that could heat or fly off during scans. So pick pieces that easily slip on and off over your body.
Avoid Problem Fabrics
Scrutinize clothing labels carefully, as certain fabrics pose issues for MRI exams:
- Silk or wool — Can give false signals on scans, depending on how fabric was processed.
- Cashmere or sequins — May contain metallic fibers or threads that interfere with magnet.
- Rayon or nylon — Can generate static or be too hot when layered.
Cotton, linen, hemp and modal represent the most MRI-compatible textile options. But when doubtful, stick with medical gowns supplied by the imaging center.
Skip the Spanx
Shapewear, bras, and underwire swim tops often integrate metal wires or adjustable hardware for structure and support. But these pose problems around MRI magnets, even when hidden under clothing.
Leave structured undergarments that use plastic, metal or silicone parts at home. Wear simple, binding-free layers like a soft bra without wires or adjustable closure. Or free yourself from restriction with a comfy bralette or wireless sports bra instead if desired.
What Else Can You Bring to an MRI Appointment?
Beyond your outfit, other personal belongings require consideration too for MRI safety:Identification and Insurance Information
You’ll need to present your ID and insurance card upon arrival, so have those ready in a zippered pocket. Leave the rest of your cards and currency stashed safely elsewhere, since cards with magnetic strips could be compromised.
Prescription Eyeglasses or Contacts
Most metal frame glasses pose no issues these days thanks to innovations like shape memory titanium. Just let technicians know if your eyewear contains metal. You’ll likely remove glasses right before entering the tube anyway.
Contacts work great for MRIs since they don’t obstruct imaging. But bring your lens case and supplies to pop contacts out if you’ll be there for an extended period.
Chapstick & Lotions
Pack plain petroleum jelly lip balm and any personal unscented lotions or creams needed during your visit. Emollients protect your skin and lips while holding still on hard surfaces for potentially long sessions.
Entertainment Essentials
Music devices without Bluetooth or wireless connectivity allow you to listen to provided playlists that help time scans. Downloaded audiobooks, podcasts or guided meditations work too.
For pediatric patients especially, stuffed animals, toys and blanket loveys offer comfort. Just ensure nothing has buttons, batteries or wire parts in the construction.
By selecting MRI-safe personal items to bring along, you can focus on relaxing through procedures for smooth, uneventful scans.
FAQs
Can I wear my normal clothes for an MRI?
Most facilities prefer patients change into gowns or scrubs supplied by the imaging center. If wearing personal clothing, avoid problem fabrics like silk, wool, spandex, nylon or rayon. Stick to loose cotton, linen or modal clothes without metal parts.
What if I forgot to remove my piercings?
Alert the MRI technician if you forgot about any piercings or jewelry so they can properly remove or cover them. Metal piercings can cause injuries or interfere with imaging if they aren’t addressed prior to the scan.
Do tattoos affect MRI results?
In some cases, yes. Tattoo ink contains trace metals that may heat up or distort images. Notify your doctor about location and age of tattoos when scheduling scans in case the technician needs to adjust protocols.
Can I bring a blanket or pillow?
Yes, as long as bedding contains no wires or metal embellishments. Hospital centers often supply plain fleece blankets but you're welcome to bring your own special pillow or lovey for added comfort, especially for pediatric patients.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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