Let’s talk about sweat
Our bodies are amazing, and every bit of them has a part to play. While sweating can be inconvenient, it helps control our body temperature and contributes to our overall health.
But there can be downsides (sorry, body). Sweating too much can knock your confidence when you’re out and about, especially when you’ve got somewhere important to be. Plus, when sweat mixes with your skin’s bacteria, it can cause unpleasant odours.
Fortunately, there are plenty of products out there to help combat the negative effects of sweat. You’ve probably used antiperspirant or body sprays before, which can do a great job. But if you’re looking for a natural alternative, we’ve got your back (or your armpits). Read on for our lowdown on whether it’s worth swapping to natural deodorants and more about how they actually work.
What is natural deodorant?
Unlike classic antiperspirants, natural deodorants don’t block sweat glands so our body can carry on doing what it's always intended to. Instead, natural deodorants slightly alter the skin’s natural pH level, usually using sodium bicarbonate. This stops the bacteria that causes smell from thriving and so actually prevents odour rather than just masking it. Even though it doesn’t block sweat glands, our natural deodorant has great absorbency powers, so you won’t need to worry about sweat patches forming.
Does natural deodorant work?
Yes, natural deodorants definitely work. However, they work in a slightly different way. Mainstream deodorants contain ingredients to stop you from sweating, as well as fragrances to reduce odour. Natural deodorants help neutralise any unpleasant smells and often include anti-bacterial and soothing ingredients to take care of your skin.
It’s worth bearing in mind that it can take a bit of time for your body to adjust and rebalance after using antiperspirants or mainstream deodorants. This transition phase can take a bit of time, during which you might smell a bit more funky than usual.
Make sure you do it the right way
Why is natural deodorant better?
Ultimately, whether you use natural deodorants or mainstream antiperspirants is totally up to you. But some people prefer natural deodorants because they can be gentler on the skin and don’t include synthetic chemicals.
Plus, natural deodorants don’t stop your body from doing what it’s supposed to do. If you prefer letting your bodily functions perform like they’re meant to, natural deodorant is definitely your go-to.
Why use a natural deodorant?
Natural deodorants are a great choice for those who want to know what ingredients they’re putting on their body. Most good-quality natural deodorants will have a clear and easy-to-understand ingredient list, making sure you know exactly what you’re putting on your skin.
Plus, giving your skin a break from the sweat-blocking ingredients in mainstream antiperspirants may come with other benefits (like improved skin condition).
A great reason to switch to natural is the benefits that the ingredients can have to your skin. Our natural deodorant is packed with coconut oil and shea butter – perfect for conditioning the skin and keeping it moisturised. It’s also free from parabens and any other nasties. Not to mention, the oils included hold their own skin benefits including Grapefruit oil being a natural antibacterial and peppermint oil, cleansing the skin.
Another huge bonus – most natural deodorants are completely plastic-free. Our deodorant balm is housed in an aluminium tin which is perfectly sized for popping in your bag for on-the-go top up if needed! Plus, you can even reuse the tin when you’re finished with it if you’re not wanting to just recycle it. It’s the perfect size for popping jewellery or other bits into to keep safe!
An added benefit of going natural is that a lot of natural deodorants are vegan friendly and cruelty free. So it’s kind to skin, animals and the planet!
Which natural deodorant works best?
Honestly, it’s up to you and your body. Pick one that works best for your skin type and perspiration requirements is important. Our natural deodorant is powered with great absorbency, plus it’s low in bicarb so its suitable for all skin types. Plus, the oils used in natural deodorants can even be uplifting for mood. Our signature scent was carefully selected with fragrance specialists to create the perfect mood boosting experience. Grapefruit combined with calming peppermint brings a harmonizing, mind clearing, uplifting sensation - the perfect start to your day!
What is the best natural deodorant for sensitive skin?
While natural ingredients typically don’t include synthetic ingredients, it’s always good to check the label to be sure. Some incorporate lots of bicarb, which is perfectly fine for most skin types but could irritate sensitive skin. Look for low-bicarb options and soothing ingredients (like coconut oil and shea butter) if you’re worried about a reaction.
For example, our natural deodorant features all-natural ingredients and a low amount of bicarb. Suitable for sensitive skin, this freshly scented natural deodorant subtly alters your skins natural pH level to prevent odour - without needing to block sweat glands. Or, choose from our range of other scents and formulas to discover the product that works for you.
How can you prepare your armpits for natural deodorant?
There are a number of things you can do in preparation for making the switch to natural deodorant. There are also various elements to bear in mind during the first few weeks after switching:
Don’t be alarmed by your sweat - you may notice that once you’ve switched to natural deodorant, you’re sweating more. This is completely normal because the aluminum in your previous deodorant was clogging your pores and blocking your sweat. In the first few weeks, your body is adjusting to being aluminum free so just sit back and relax whilst your body takes care of things!
Prepare with an underarm mask - using a clay underarm mask once a week during your transition period can make things a little easier. This mask can also remove dry or dead skin that trap odour.
Ensure you stay hydrated - when switching to natural deodorant, it’s important tio stay hydrated. Drinking roughly 3 liters of water a day will flush toxins from your system and ensure you are hydrated well as you sweat more during the transition period.
Exfoliate under your arm - using an exfoliating body scrub under your arm will buff away any dry skin. We also recommend using sulfate and paraben-free body wash to continue the detox process. After using these products, always ensure your underarm is dry as moisture can breed bacteria and odour!
Are natural deodorants safe?
Most natural deodorants are perfectly safe. Always choose a reputable brand, though (like ours!). We’re always upfront about our natural ingredients and never include ingredients that could harm your skin. Our deodorants are cruelty-free, vegan and don’t contain any aluminium or parabens. Plus, they come in an environmentally friendly tin.
If you have really sensitive skin, it’s worth testing your chosen deodorant on a small area first. While it’s unlikely you’ll experience a reaction, be sure to stop using the product if you do get any sensitivity.
It’s a good idea to pick a sensitive skin option if you’re worried. Our low-bicarb natural deodorant is your go-to.
How much natural deodorant to use
Natural deodorants are really easy to use. Scoop a pea sized amount onto your finger tip, then apply to your armpits. Your body temperature will warm the formula, making it glide on smoothly. You might want to re-apply a few times throughout the day, especially when you’ve just started using natural deodorants (our natural deodorant tins are handy for popping in your bag for on-the-go application).
As your body adapts, you might find that you need to apply less often over time.
How long does it take for your body to get used to natural deodorant?
It can take up to 30 days for your body to have fully adjusted to natural deodorant, but for some people the transition phase can be shorter.
It’s important to be patient during this time and be safe in the knowledge that you are making a much healthier life choice!
Does natural deodorant burn my armpits?
When switching to natural deodorant your armpits may experience temporary irritation which is completely normal. This is because your armpits are finally free from all of the chemicals in classic antiperspirant deodorants and the bacteria that has built up under your skin is released in your sweat. This irritation should settle down after the transition period once your body has fully adjusted.
