What really happens if you stop using deodorant? It’s not as bad as you think. But if you don’t want to find out, try these natural, non-toxic deodorant recommendations.
The Internet is always abuzz with celebrity stories and hygiene habits are no exception. From Ashton and Mila raising eyebrows about the frequency of their kids’ baths to Matthew McConaughey admitting he hasn’t used deodorant in more than 35 years. Ahem. Did McConaughey just toss it out the window (into the recycling bin, of course!)? Is he stepping up the hygiene to prevent the stink? You don’t have to go to that extreme to avoid the harsh chemicals in deodorant, though. There are plenty worthwhile natural options that work.
How to ditch deodorant
First things first, armpit detox. Just as you probably cringed a bit when reading that — armpit detox? — it isn’t as bad as it might seem. Your armpits (and sweat) don’t naturally stink. The smell comes from the bacteria that grow where you sweat. When you first stop using traditional deodorants, especially those made with aluminum, that release will cause a little bit more B.O. as your body releases the waste and sweats out the metal aluminum.
Not a scientific number here, but for most people, this detox lasts around two weeks and there are a few things you can do to make it more odor-free. Clay masks can help remove the buildup of antiperspirant or deodorant from years of use, therefore speeding up the detox process.
Aztec Healing Clay masks can help the detox. You’ll have to hold your arms above your head while it dries, but it should help you achieve a few stink-free days. It is important to note, you will still sweat! And if you had previously been using an aluminum deodorant you may sweat slightly more now that you ditched it. Aluminum is the only thing that helps to stop the actual sweat. However, if you detox your pits and keep your pits clean post-sweat-sesh you should do fine. You can also use a probiotic spray to add a daily dose of good bacteria to your underarms to combat any bad bacteria that try to show up.
A word about plastic
Deodorant has come in plastic containers for decades. While there are options now coming in paperboard and even some made with recycled materials, plastic is still often the go-to choice, even for clean deodorant brands. Part of the reason is plastic’s ubiquity in personal care packaging, but it’s also the delicate nature of deodorant that can make other containers less effective. In our experience with a range of options, the paperboard containers can be difficult and clunky to use, leaving a lot of deodorant spilling out onto the container rather than our pits. There are other options, like liquid sprays, but most of those also come in plastic containers.
If you’re a heavy sweater and want a deodorant that’s going to work well and apply easily, the plastic-encased options may still be the best bet. If you don’t sweat as much (or don’t care!) then some of the more sustainably packaged options should do. For the most sustainable and natural option, the best bet is to make your own using baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils.
The best natural deodorants
Natural deodorants got a bad rap years ago, and, truth be told, they probably deserved it then. However, natural deodorant sure has come a long way. Those ineffective options of decades past are gone, and in their place is a new era of clean, fresh deodorants that work like a charm. So, if you’ve effectively detoxed and want a healthy replacement, these are the best on the market.
1. Native Deodorant
Some natural deodorants contain ingredients like baking soda, which is fine for normal skin, but it can be a bit hard for those with sensitive skin. This choice from Native Deodorant is baking soda-free. Instead, it uses a mixture of coconut oil — a natural antioxidant — and tapioca starch, which helps keep your underarms dry all day long.
2. Megababe Rosypits Daily Deodorant
Crafted with ingredients such as sage, green tea, and cornstarch, the rose-scented deodorant works Megababe is a beloved natural deodorant for its effectiveness and adorable packaging. Crafted with ingredients such as sage, green tea, and cornstarch, the rose-scented deodorant works by preventing odor-inducing bacteria from forming on the skin. It is also crafted without the use of aluminum and alcohol, so it is safe for all skin types.
3. Nécessaire The Deodorant
This natural deodorant features a unique blend of mandelic and lactic acids that help to neutralize body odor. The combination of silica, zinc, and Kaolin clay keep the underarms feeling fresh and dry.
4. Nubian Heritage African Black Soap 24-Hour Deodorant
For those with darker skin tones, it has always been a challenge to find a deodorant that doesn’t leave those awful white streaks. Nubian Heritage’s African Black Soap is the answer as it leaves no marks or residue after applying. It works immediately and requires a few touch-ups throughout the day.
5. Lavanila The Healthy Deodorant
This natural deodorant has been a favorite for years and even won the coveted Allure Best of Beauty award back in 2013. It prevents and protects against odor while also soothing underarm skin. It comes in a handful of dreamy scents such as grapefruit, lavender, coconut, and pure vanilla.
6. Kopari Coconut Deodorant
With a hard-to-get five-star rating from Sephora, this coconut deodorant from Kopari uses a unique blend of coconut water, coconut oil, and sage oil to soothe underarms. It is made without the use of aluminum, baking soda, parabens, phthalates, or silicone. It is also non-allergenic and dermatologist-tested.
7. Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant
Schmidt’s deodorants fight odor with plant-based ingredients including shea butter, magnesium, and essential oils that are formulated to be gentle on your skin. Just 1-2 swipes are all your need for daily protection. With 20,000 5-star reviews on the brand’s website, a wide range of scents, and a special formulation for sensitive skin Schmidt’s is a reliable option.
8. Corpus Third Rose Deodorant
With its sleek, sustainable packaging, you might not notice at first that this is even deodorant. Crafted with rose, Italian mandarin, violet, and cedar root this natural deodorant will keep you smelling like a field of flowers all day. With organic ingredients without the use of parabens, talc, or synthetic ingredients it is safe for all skin types.
9. Briogeo B. Well Eucalyptus and Tea Tree
Briogeo’s B. Well Tea Tree + Eucalyptus Clean Natural Deodorant is a clean, plant-based deodorant that helps neutralize body odor. Upon initial application, 100 percent of users said they felt their skin was more soft, hydrated, and fresh.
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