Tired of dealing with stinky armpits? Fed up of feeling like you’re waging a war on your body every time you apply deodorant? I’ve previously written about the importance of using Natural deodorant(you can check the post here!)
The stinging, the irritation, a concern that you are neglecting self-care? You’re not alone. For years, I struggled with the same concerns, until I finally made the switch to natural deodorant. My perspective on choosing personal care products was changed during this journey. In this article, I’ll share my experience and guide you through the simple process of switching to natural deodorant, so you can start feeling good about what you’re putting on your skin.
Why Switch to Natural Deodorant?
Switching to natural deodorant is a decision many people are considering for many reasons. Natural deodorants are extracted from nature, such as essential oils, baking soda, arrowroot powder, and shea butter. They have several advantages: 1. they are gentle on the skin, 2. often less irritating, and 3. more soothing, making them suitable for sensitive skin. “When I first switched to natural deodorant, I was amazed at how much gentler it was on my skin,” says health and wellness writer Jane Doe. “I no longer experienced the redness and irritation that I did with conventional products.”
Many natural deodorants are formulated with ingredients like tea tree oil and coconut oil, which have natural antibacterial properties to battle with odor. Additionally, ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil provide moisturizing benefits, keeping the skin under your arms soft and hydrated. Jane recalls, “The moisturizing effect of natural deodorants was a pleasant surprise. My skin felt softer and more nourished than ever before.”
On the other hand, conventional deodorants and antiperspirants (most of them!) contains a range of synthetic chemicals and compounds, some of which have raised health concerns
For example, aluminum, common in antiperspirants, blocks sweat ducts but has been linked to potential health risks, including breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. I’ve also written on the aluminum free deodorant ( you can read it here!)
Choosing natural deodorant is not only beneficial for your health and also for the environment (remember you are an earth warrior?). “As someone who loves sustainability, the eco-friendly packaging of deodorants was a huge plus for me as well,” says Jane. “It’s a small change that contributes to a larger positive impact on the planet.”
Switching to natural deodorant is a small but great step towards a healthier lifestyle. In the sections that follow, we will delve into what natural deodorants are, how to prepare for the switch, and tips for finding the right product for you. (Buckle up guys!)
Understanding Natural Deodorants
Switching to natural deodorant starts with understanding what sets these products apart from conventional ones. So, what exactly is natural deodorant? Simply put, natural deodorants are personal care products designed to neutralize body smell (which we hate a lot!!) using naturally derived ingredients. Unlike antiperspirants, which contain aluminum to block sweat glands, natural deodorants allow your body to sweat naturally while using plant-based ingredients to beat the odor! This was a revelation for me when I first made the switch—I came to know that sweating is a healthy process that regulates body temperature and expels toxins.
The effectiveness of natural deodorants comes from a variety of ingredients, I’ve come across baking soda at first, which is great for combating odors, though it can be a bit irritating for some people; arrowroot powder or cornstarch, which helps absorb moisture and keeps the underarm area dry; and coconut oil which not only has antibacterial properties but also provides moisture. Shea butter is fantastic for moisturizing and soothing the skin, while essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus provide fragrance and additional antibacterial benefits. Beeswax or candelilla wax is often used in stick formulations to provide structure.
Natural deodorants work by neutralizing the bacteria that cause body odor. They don’t prevent sweating, which is a natural and healthy process. Instead, they create an environment that’s less conducive to bacterial growth. For me, this was a major plus—I liked knowing that I wasn’t blocking a natural bodily function
Types of Natural Deodorants
Solid Stick:
The most common form of natural deodorants are Solid sticks. They’re easy to apply and portable, with brands often using waxes and butters to create a firm yet spreadable consistency. Personally, I love the convenience of solid sticks—they fit right into my routine.
Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant offers a solid stick option crafted with plant-based ingredients. Free from aluminum, propylene glycol, parabens, and phthalates, it provides effective odor protection in a variety of enticing scents. The formula glides on smoothly and is gentle on the skin, keeping you feeling fresh throughout the day.
Native Deodorant presents a solid stick deodorant that is both effective and aluminum-free. This deodorant is formulated to keep you feeling confident and odor-free with a diverse range of fragrances to choose from. Its gentle formula is suitable for all skin types ensuring long-lasting freshness without the use of harsh chemicals.
Creams and Pastes
Creams and pastes, which come in jars and are applied with fingers (some people may avoid it) tend to have a creamy texture and can be moisturizing at first. When I first tried a cream deodorant, it felt more like a skincare routine for my underarms, which was a nice change.
Primal Pit Paste Deodorant, this brand offers a variety of cream and paste deodorants made from natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and arrowroot powder.
Sprays
Spray deodorants use liquid formulas, often based on alcohol or witch hazel, which dry quickly. They are easy to apply but may need to be reapplied throughout the day. I found sprays handy for quick freshen-ups but stopped using due to the alcohol.
Green Tidings All-Natural Deodorant Spray, This option is free from aluminum, parabens, and propylene glycol. It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and provides long-lasting odor protection.
- EO Organic Deodorant Spray:
EO offers a range of organic deodorant sprays made with essential oils and natural ingredients, providing a refreshing and effective alternative to traditional deodorants.
Crystals and Stones
Switching to a crystal deodorant felt like a leap for me, but it worked surprisingly well at keeping odors at bay. Crystal deodorants are made from mineral salts like potassium alum. They create a thin, invisible layer on the skin that inhibits bacterial growth.
Thai Crystal Deodorant Stone , Made from natural mineral salts, these crystal deodorants are fragrance-free and provide long-lasting odor protection without leaving residue on the skin.
Salt of the Earth Natural Deodorant Stone, Another mineral salt option, this deodorant stone is fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive skin, and provides effective odor protection throughout the day.
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Preparing for the Switch
How long does it take to switch on natural deodorant?
Switching to natural deodorant may require a period of adjustment as your body detoxifies from conventional deodorants. Detoxifying your armpits can help ease the transition by removing built-up residues of antiperspirants and reducing the likelihood of irritation.
How long do you smell after switching to natural deodorant?
During the first few weeks, you might notice increased sweating and a stronger odor as your body adjusts. This is normal and usually subsides as your body regulates itself. I remember feeling a bit self-conscious at first, but knowing it was a temporary phase helped me push through. Keeping your underarms clean helps manage odor.
I started carrying wipes with me for a quick refresh during the day. In the initial phase, you may need to reapply deodorant throughout the day. This was true for me, and it’s totally okay. I kept my natural deodorant in my bag for easy reapplication. Natural fibers like cotton allow your skin to breathe and can help reduce odor. Switching to more breathable fabrics made a big difference for me, especially during the warmer months.
How to detox armpit when switching to natural deodorant?
This step was crucial for me—it made the transition smoother and more comfortable. Here are a couple of methods that worked wonders for me: applying a bentonite clay mask can help draw out impurities. I found this to be a soothing and effective method.
It was like giving my underarms a little spa treatment. Diluted apple cider vinegar can balance the pH of your skin and reduce bacteria. It’s a quick and easy fix that worked wonders for me. Just mix a tablespoon of vinegar with a cup of water and apply it with a cotton ball.
Making the Switch
Now that you know what to expect, let’s talk about making the actual switch. When choosing a natural deodorant, consider your skin type, scent preferences, and any sensitivities you might have. I found it helpful to read reviews and try a few different brands to see what worked best for me. If you have sensitive skin, look for deodorants with soothing ingredients like shea butter or avoid baking soda, which can be irritating. Natural deodorants come in a variety of scents from essential oils. I personally love lavender and tea tree oil for their calming and antibacterial properties. Whether you prefer sticks, creams, sprays, or crystals, there’s a natural deodorant out there for you.
Make sure to read the labels and understand what’s in your deodorant. Look for products free from aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. This knowledge helped me feel confident in my choices. Applying natural deodorant is pretty straightforward, but there are a few tips for best results. Make sure your underarms are clean and dry before applying. A little goes a long way. For creams, a pea-sized amount is usually enough. For sticks, a few swipes will do. If you’re using a solid stick, warm it up against your skin for a few seconds to soften it, making it easier to apply. Natural deodorants may need to be reapplied more often than conventional ones, especially during the initial transition period. I found that reapplying once in the afternoon kept me feeling fresh all day. Drinking plenty of water helps regulate body temperature and can reduce sweating. As mentioned earlier, natural fibers like cotton allow your skin to breathe and can help reduce odor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best preparation, you might encounter some bumps along the way. Here’s how to handle them. If you experience irritation, it might be due to baking soda or certain essential oils. Try switching to a baking soda-free formula or one with milder ingredients. Applying aloe vera gel or a coconut oil balm can soothe irritated skin. These remedies worked well for me. Look for natural deodorants specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Brands often label these clearly. To manage odor and wetness, don’t hesitate to reapply your deodorant if you feel you need it. Natural powders or absorbent pads can help manage wetness. I found adding a light dusting of arrowroot powder to be very effective.
Long-term Benefits and Maintenance
Once you’ve successfully made the switch, there are long-term benefits and maintenance tips to keep in mind. Over time, you’ll likely notice that your skin feels healthier and less irritated. I certainly did, and it was a great motivator to stick with natural products. By avoiding the chemicals found in conventional deodorants, you’re reducing your exposure to potentially harmful substances, which is a significant benefit for your overall health.
Many natural deodorant brands use recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging. This reduces waste and helps protect the environment. I feel good knowing that my choices are contributing to a healthier planet. Choosing brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing supports companies that are making a positive impact. It’s a small but meaningful way to vote with your wallet.
Switching to natural deodorant is a journey, but it’s one worth taking. Embrace the transition, find what works for you, and enjoy the benefits for both your health and the environment. Hope you enjoyed this article XD