There are many reasons to make the switch to using toxic-free natural deodorant. Some scientists have suggested that the aluminum found in most antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer*, and parabens and other toxins found in antiperspirants have been linked to reproductive issues. It’s worth noting that many other scientists say there isn’t enough definitive evidence to make these claims, however there can’t be any harm in reducing the amount of chemicals we expose our body to.
After trying a variety of both natural deodorants and anti-perspirants over years, I recently decided to stick with natural (about 3 weeks ago). I’ve found a lot of people complain that natural deodorant doesn’t work, however what I’ve found is that if you stick with it over time, your body adapts and it eventually does work. So here’s what you can expect when you first make the switch:
You will stink
If you’ve used natural deodorant before you might have realised that the antiperspirant did actually stop you from perspiring and without you might start to smell worse earlier in the day. I remember after trying natural deodorant for around a week I thought the stuff doesn’t work at all! If you watch Keeping up with the Kardashians you might remember an episode where Kourtney is making the transition to natural deodorant- everyone’s complaining that she stinks! But you don’t have to choose between smelling badly or using toxins.
You will go through a transitional phase
After reading other people’s experiences via forums online, I learned that the stinky ‘transitional’ period can last from anything from 1 to 6 weeks. During this time the body is eliminating years of plugged up armpits. Yuck!
By sticking with it and experimenting to find a natural deodorant that works for you, there is light at the end of the tunnel! Be patient – it might take longer than you expect for your body to adapt.
Trying different ones
Finding the right natural deodorant is as personal as finding the right perfume in my opinion. They come in different scents, different textures and ultimately produce different results for people. I’m going to share with you the ones that I have tried so far, and what I think of them:
Salt of the Earth
The unscented stick from Salt of the Earth was the first natural deodorant I tried. I’d say it’s good if you aren’t into strong smells, doesn’t leave a mark on your clothes and is vegan and cruelty free. However for me I just didn’t get enough product use out of it – the crystal based deodorants don’t feel as effective and you’re supposed to only apply it on damp skin.
A’kin Geranium and Cedarwood
I was not a fan of this natural deodorant from Ocado at all. The cedarwood gave it a very musky, masculine smell and the spray was too heavy which meant too much liquid / wet armpits. It was also probably the most ineffective in terms of smell protection. Issa no from me.
Sukin
I tried this ‘Sukin’ natural deodorant as part of a wider order from Look Fantastic. I didn’t rate it that highly – it still had the wetness issue, which probably means these pump spray deodorants are just not for me. I also later realised it contains the ingredient ‘phenoxyethanol’, a regulated substance with some studies indicating toxic effects on the liver, blood and hormones**. So think I’ll be leaving that one alone.
My fave – Sanex biome protect
So far, I’ve had no issues with this deodorant. I like the roll on, it smells good but not overpowering and it’s toxic-free. I have also come out of the ‘transition’ period for natural deodorants which means it works better too. Despite many terrible reviews on the Superdrug website, I have to disagree and say this is my fave so far!
So there you have it – wherever you are on your natural deodorant journey I hope this summary of my experience can help with your decision making. I still feel like there are so many more brands to test out. Have you started using natural deodorant? Which one works for you? Let me know in the comments!
Romy x
*https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/myths/antiperspirants-fact-sheet
**Source: Yuka app
