Everything You Need to Know About Natural Deodorant
Maybe you’ve considered making the switch to natural deodorant. Or perhaps you’ve already tried to switch from conventional deodorants to natural deodorant but found yourself smellier than ever or with irritated armpits.
Some non-toxic or low-tox lifestyle changes are simple and easy to make, while others require more trial and error. Unfortunately for most people, switching to natural deodorant falls into the latter category.
Fortunately, I have some experience with making the switch, and I can share some tips to help make the transition a little easier for you. Let’s start by defining deodorant.
Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant
Deodorant is the generally used term for all the items that we put under our arms to fight body odor. However, there is a difference between deodorant and antiperspirant.
Deodorants contain ingredients that kill the bacteria that feed on the sweat under your arms. Antiperspirants contain aluminum which blocks the sweat ducts in your armpit to prevent sweating altogether. Many antiperspirants contain deodorants as well. Personally, I’m not a fan of blocking sweat glands since that’s how some toxins are released from the body.
For the sake of this post, I’m referring to aluminum-free deodorants and natural deodorants that don’t contain parabens, synthetic fragrances, or other compounds that can act as endocrine disruptors. Unfortunately, some natural deodorants still have some of these items. The term “natural” isn’t a regulated label. So, read labels or check the EWG’s website for more clarity on ingredients.
Concerns About Antiperspirants
You’ve probably heard or read something about a link between aluminum and breast cancer. Although this seems to be pretty widespread knowledge in the natural lifestyle community, there is no research linking breast cancer to the use of antiperspirants.
Another study suggested aluminum may be linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the credibility of this study has been called into question.
I do have some concerns about the use of antiperspirants from a health standpoint. My personal opinion is that there is no real reason to stop or hinder sweat with antiperspirant deodorants.
Perspiration is an essential bodily function. It helps to regulate body temperature, and a tiny amount of toxins are released through sweat. It’s also a good idea to reduce toxin exposure whenever possible, especially if you’re dealing with conditions like fibroids or other hormone-related conditions.
Another interesting point is that people who use antiperspirants produce smellier bacteria under their arms. And people who don’t use antiperspirants have milder-smelling bacteria. Wouldn’t it be great to smell better naturally?
Deodorant Brands I like
These are some of the brands that I’ve either tried and found to be effective. They are aluminum-free, paraben-free, artificial fragrance-free, and have a pretty solid rating on EWG’s database. Keep in mind that you may have to try a few different ones before you find the best natural deodorant for you.
Good read. I recently switched and am experiencing some issues. Gonna give myself a little longer to adjust 🤞🏾
Yes! It’s a process. You may have to switch deodorant a couple of times to figure out what works best.
Thanks for this information. I have tried natural deodorant before and switched back because it didn’t work. I still have some in the house. I may give it another try with these tips ! Thanks !