How to Find Natural Deodorant that Actually Works

There’s no better feeling than knowing you’ll smell fresh from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep. The scary problem is that people don’t realize that most store-bought deodorants contain harmful ingredients.

No one likes stinky pits. But would you be opposed to using a product that contains an ingredient that possibly causes cancer? Aluminum is a common ingredient used in deodorants — and it’s been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and even Alzheimer’s disease. The scary ingredients don’t end there.

Another common but extremely harmful ingredient that’s found in most traditional deodorants is triclosan. The ingredient is used for its antibacterial properties, helping to minimize bacteria that lead to armpit odor. However, triclosan has been linked to the growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria and may even impact hormone levels in the body, causing all sorts of endocrine issues.

Other harmful ingredients to be aware of include:

• Phthalates
• Steareths
• Parabens
• Propylene glycol
• DEA & TEA

With this said, the next best (and safest!) alternative is to switch to a natural deodorant. If you’ve read anything about natural deodorants, you may be a little unsure about trying them, since they do take some getting used to.

Here’s what you need to know about finding a natural deodorant that actually works for you.

Look for the Right Active Ingredients

There are all sorts of active ingredients that are used in natural deodorants. When choosing one, be sure to look for proven and effective ingredients like magnesium, kaolin clay, activated charcoal, zinc oxide, and virgin coconut oil. These ingredients are beneficial in that they stop odor before it happens, keeping you odor-free all day long.

Of course, everyone’s body is different. So what works for someone else may not work for you. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you’ll want to avoid deodorants that contain baking soda. This is a common irritant that can cause itchy, painful rashes.

Try different deodorants with a variety of active ingredients and essential oils to find one that gets the job done for you.

Other Ingredients Matter Too

Not only do you want a deodorant that’s able to block odor, but you also want a product that takes care of your skin! Find a deodorant that uses other beneficial ingredients that heal, nourish, and soothe your skin. Ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera help to keep your underarms free of irritation, redness, and other common problems.

These ingredients also make the deodorant easier to apply. You want a product that easily glides onto your skin in just a few swipes. There’s nothing worse than a deodorant that leaves you feeling gunky and unsure if you over-applied!

Look for Staining

Ever used a deodorant in the past, only to be left with stains on your clothes? What’s worse is that these stains stick around, even after a trip through the washing machine.

While many people think this is from sweating, the stains are actually caused by aluminum and other ingredients. Since you likely don’t want your clothes ruined for the sake of smelling good, be sure to watch for staining. In natural deodorants, this is often caused by the high concentration of oils. The easiest fix is to apply a little less so that the oil soaks into your skin versus your clothing. You can also take a few seconds to massage the deodorant into your armpit after applying.

Be Patient

After years of using deodorants that contain all sorts of harmful ingredients, when you make the switch to an all-natural product, know ahead of time that your body will detox itself. As those toxins start to exit your body through your skin, you can all but guarantee that you’ll be smellier than normal. While the extra smell may be alarming and even a little frustrating, the key to finding a deodorant that works is to stick with it.

Give your body at least a week or two to adjust to the new product. And remember — if you’re feeling a bit smelly, it’s okay to re-apply throughout the day!

Trial & Error

Though it may be frustrating, the first natural deodorant you try may not be the best option. Sometimes the best thing to do when switching to natural deodorant is to try a variety of products. You’ll have to figure out which combination of ingredients works best for you and keeps you feeling and smelling great all day long.

Conclusion

Switching to an all-natural deodorant is definitely a process. Be patient. Be willing to shop around for the right ingredient combination that leaves you feeling and smelling good for hours on end. Keep these tips in mind to find the right natural deodorant for you.