Everything You Need To Know About Switching To Natural Deodorant
by Steffi Victorioso
So you’re thinking about making the switch to natural deodorant. There are a few things you should know before you take the leap. Here’s a list of pro-tips and other info to make your transition easier and less smelly.
Aluminum isn’t as bad as we think.
Back in 1999, an anonymous email began circulating claiming that aluminum in antiperspirants causes breast cancer. Since then, aluminum’s had a bad rap, and has falsely been linked to cancer, Alzheimer’s, and kidney disease. Researchers from the National Cancer Institute, the American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the National Kidney Association have all stated that they have not been able to prove any toxic or carcinogenic effects of aluminum and other ingredients in antiperspirants and deodorants. Studies that show otherwise, like this one, have either been debunked or have not been able to be recreated. Likewise, no direct causal link has been found between parabens (preservatives in cosmetics) and cancer. Though they do have the ability to mimic estrogen, there’s not enough evidence to prove that they pose any health risks. Research is still ongoing, so if you prefer to err on the side of caution, your best bet is to limit your exposure.
You’re going to sweat more than you’re used to.
Natural deodorants are NOT antiperspirants, so you’re definitely going to sweat. Don’t freak out about moist armpits. Antiperspirant works by plugging up sweat glands. When they’re open, they’re free to produce as much sweat as they feel necessary to regulate your body temp. This is natural.
The “detox” period is actually your armpit bacteria making adjustments.
Sweat is actually odorless. The stink happens when bacteria comes in contact with sweat and breaks it down into smelly chemical compounds. Similar to your gut, your underarms have their own microbial ecosystem of bacteria. When you change your underarm routine, that microbiome changes too. Changes in odor can happen while the bacteria is trying to self-regulate and adjust.
Face acids may help to combat odor.
BHAs (like salicylic acid) and AHAs (like glycolic acid) remove excess skin cells and sebum, and have antibacterial properties. Giving your pits a swipe of acid can help combat odor-causing bacteria throughout the day.
You have to apply deodorant on completely dry armpits.
If you apply deodorant before your armpits have dried off from the shower, the moisture dilutes the deodorant and prevents it from making contact with your skin, rendering it ineffective. In order for the deodorant to work properly, you must apply to clean and completely dry skin.
One application a day probably won’t be enough.
With natural deodorants, one application may not cut it, even on cooler, non-gym days. That’s just a fact of life, so get used to it. The number of times you have to reapply varies depending on your own body chemistry, stress levels, hormones, activity level, and bacteria.
Shaving your armpits might help to reduce odor.
Hair itself won’t make you stinky, but having a lot of it could create a sweatier environment, a perfect breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Feel free to grow it out, but know that you may need to reapply or pat dry more often.
You might get a rash.
Even though the ingredients are natural or organic, that doesn’t mean you won’t have a bad reaction to them. Some common ingredients in natural deodorant, especially baking soda, can cause skin irritation. It’s best to read ingredient lists and patch test.
Old deodorant and antiperspirant residue will still be in your clothes.
Not just aluminum and other anti-perspirant ingredients, but waxes and oils from natural deodorants can also stick to your clothes even after you wash them. This residue creates a persistent funk (and yellow stains) when it reacts with sweat and bacteria. Pre-treat the pits of your shirts with an enzyme-based cleaner (white vinegar works too) to break down oils, waxes, and sweat and prevent future staining and stinking.
Here are our recommendations.
BEST DRUGSTORE BRAND
Tom’s of Maine Natural Men's Stick Deodorant in Deep Forest — $4.49 Walmart
This formula and fragrance worked better for us than their standard version.
MOST CONVENIENT
Pacifica Pineapple Underarm Deodorant Wipes — $8.99 Target
Pacifica Rose Underarm Deodorant Wipes — $8.99 Target
These are perfect for a midday or post-workout refresher.
LONG LASTING
SchmidtsLavender + Sage Natural Deodorant — $4.99 Target
This lasted through a gym session without having to reapply!
BEST OVERALL
Native Coconut & Vanilla Deodorant — $12, Target
This cruelty-free, vegan, aluminum-free deodorant really works. Baking soda neutralizes bacteria, and the formula feels incredibly luxurious - never sticky or wet.
Steffi Victorioso is an LA-based food and lifestyle writer/photographer currently thinking about what to eat. You can find more of her articles here.
