I started using natural deodorant consistently three years ago (I can’t believe it’s been that long!). I tried many times before, but gave up quickly because quite frankly, I stunk. It took a lot of trial and error, but I landed on Native, and it became the first natural deodorant to really work for me. I should mention while I did not include it in this post because I wanted to narrow it down to 5, I still like Native and it’s a good option if you’re just starting out! They have a sensitive collection now too that is baking soda free.
The first thing I always tell people when they are switching to natural deodorant is to detox their armpits. This will help the process and keep things less smelly as you transition. Think about it this way, when you stop using regular antiperspirant you’re basically unblocking your sweat glands that have been plugged up for a long time. So when you initially make the switch to natural you might sweat more (detoxing your pits helps with this). When I first switched I made my own armpit mask but Megababe Happy Pits is an awesome and super easy option. I use it once every 1-2 weeks.
If there was ever a time to try natural deodorant it’s right now. It did take a little while for my body to adjust to natural deodorant but now I barely even need it. The one thing that works best for me is switching it up regularly. I never use the same deodorant twice in a row. When I finish one, I’ll use something else the next time (sometimes I switch it up day to day). I can go back to old ones after I’ve taken a break, but I find them to be most effective that way. I also just really enjoy trying different natural deodorants. Here are my favorite natural deodorants (all for different reasons which I’ve explained below).
BONUS: Go head to my Instagram for a giveaway!
Benefits of Switching To A Natural Deodorant
YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO SWEAT
Sweating is your body’s natural way to get rid of toxins. Antiperspirants include hormone disrupting ingredients that prevent your body from doing this. In addition, sweaty doesn’t necessarily mean smelly. I still sweat on occasion, if I’m working out or it’s a super hot day, but I don’t smell. Natural deodorant doesn’t mess with the good bacteria in your underarms.
ANTIPERSPIRANT CAN ACTUALLY MAKE THINGS WORSE
Studies have shown that anti-perspirant can actually make body odor worse by increasing the levels of the odorous bacteria populating the armpit. This study was a small sample size, but speaking from experience, my smelliest days were back when I used antiperspirant.
THERE ARE Harmful Chemicals In conventional Deodorants
Conventional deodorant and antiperspirants have ingredients like parabens, triclosan, phthalates, and aluminum. Aluminum in particular is a neurotoxin which is the active ingredient that blocks pores and prevents you from sweating. Your underarms contain hormone receptors and research has shown that some ingredients used in deodorant are absorbed and stored in fat cells. Blood tests have shown ingredients commonly used in deodorant products can make their way past the skin and into the body. Research has linked these ingredients to several medical conditions including types of cancer and reproductive development issues.
My Favorite Natural Deodorants
best unisex: ursa major sublime sage spray deodorant
I was so skeptical of a deodorant spray. In fact it sat in my bathroom for a while before I finally decided to try it. I was REALLY impressed. You only need one spritz which comes out like a fine mist. Worried about stains? It’s a non staining formula! It has a woodsy, refreshing smell that’s not overpowering. It dries completely clear and it’s great for sharing with your partner. Craig uses mine all the time, when he remembers to use deodorant that is. Ingredients like baking soda can be irritating for some, and this formula is baking soda free! If you purchase at Follain use my code jessannkirby15 for 15% off.
best traditional roll on: farmacy freshen up
If you like the feel of a traditional roll on deodorant this is your jam. It glides on smooth and clear with a cooling effect that makes your pits feel so refreshed. It’s formulated with kaolin clay which draws out impurities to help absorb sweat. The tea tree oil and peppermint oil gives it a really fresh scent. I’ll be honest I’m kind of surprised by the reviews on Sephora, it’s very split, people either love it or hate it. I’m in the love camp.
best eco-friendly: PaPR Deodorant
If your goal is low waste this deodorant does not disappoint. The packaging is 100% biodegradable or recyclable with zero plastic. They use soy inks on their packaging and I have to say the design is pretty cool, it’s like a push up pop deodorant. This formula is a bit thicker but still goes on fairly clear, a little goes a long way with this one. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free. It’s very effective but a heads up it does have baking soda if you have sensitivity.
best for extra sweaty days: Nécessaire the Deodorant
You probably know by now I’m a big Necessaire fan. I love their body wash, body serum and body lotion, and I’m happy to report their deodorant is great too. The scent isn’t the same as the eucalyptus body wash but it’s perfectly pleasant (they also make a fragrance free which can be hard to find). It has an almost creamy texture and I applied right after shaving with no irritation. I wore this over the weekend outside on a very hot day in our backyard and did not feel sweaty at all, and more importantly, didn’t smell at the end of the day.
best multi-tasker: Megababe Rosy pits
This baking soda free deodorant has coconut oil (known for its anti-fungal properties), Vitamin E to soothe sensitive skin, and other natural ingredients like horsetail plant to protect against odor causing bacteria. I have Beachy Pits, but I want to try the cult favorite Rosy Pits next.
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