Making the switch to natural deodorants has been a hot topic in the last few years, as we have been learning more and more about the different ingredients in traditional deodorants and how they can be irritating to the skin. Actually making the switch, however, can be a bit of a process when figuring out which ingredients you like and which scents work for you.
How Does Deodorant Work?
A common misconception about body odour is that it’s your sweat itself that has the odour. What really causes body odour is when your sweat comes into contact with the bacteria on your underarm skin. Deodorant works by neutralising the odour-causing bacteria on your underarms, and they are usually scented so that you can smell nice and fresh throughout the day.
Antiperspirants work by forming a gel that blocks your sweat glands when it comes into contact with the electrolytes in your sweat, which prevents you from perspiring. Most traditional deodorants and antiperspirants are made with ingredients that are harsh on the skin and on the environment, and this is why many have been inspired to make the switch to natural alternatives.
What Is In Natural Deodorant, and What Makes It Effective?
Natural deodorant works in the same way as a traditional deodorant, just with gentler ingredients instead. These gentle, yet powerful ingredients work to neutralise odour while allowing your body to still perspire as it does naturally.
Some of the more common ingredients in natural deodorants include:
- Oils: Coconut oil is most commonly used and preferred due to its antibacterial properties. This is usually the base of the deodorant.
- Starch: A starch is used to absorb moisture and sweat, as well as to neutralise odour-causing bacteria. Baking soda is the most popular option, but arrowroot powder is also very commonly used in formulas targeted towards sensitive skin.
- Wax: Waxes such as beeswax or plant-based wax are used to give the deodorant it’s ideal texture.
- Essential Oils: Natural deodorants are often scented with essential oils that not only smell great, but also have antibacterial properties to further neutralise odour. Some popular oils are Lavender and Tea Tree.
How To Choose The Right Deodorant For You
Searching for your perfect deodorant match can seem a little daunting, so let us help you out. Now that you have a better idea of what the ingredients in your natural deodorant are doing, it makes narrowing down the many options a bit easier. Choosing a natural deodorant that contains baking soda typically ensures that it will work stronger, for longer. Our cream deodorants (except for our unscented cream deodorant) all contain baking soda and typically provide 12 hours of odour protection, depending on the individual’s sweat and activity levels.
However, if you have sensitive skin or have a baking soda sensitivity, our Unscented Cream deodorant is a great option. It provides all-day odour protection while still being gentle enough for sensitive skin, and that’s because it’s formulated with arrowroot powder instead. Common signs of a baking soda sensitivity are stingy or itchy underarms when applying natural deodorant. If you feel any type of irritation, it might be best to choose a baking soda-free option.
If you’re not a fan of applying your deodorant with your fingers, we do have baking soda-free options in a tube applicator. These typically provide 6-8 hours of protection and are great for those who are sensitive or like to reapply on the go!
Sometimes the hunt for your perfect natural deodorant can be a bit of a trial and error process, but it doesn’t have to be stressful! So don’t sweat it. If you have any questions or are unsure, our team is more than happy to help you make the best choice for you. Now that you have an idea of what ingredients to look for, you are way ahead of the game!
