Natural Deodorant Myths Debunked
Welcome to myth busters: deodorant edition.
Do natural deodorants work? That’s what we’re breaking down today and debunking the many myths that are floating around (and some you might be believing!) about the effectiveness of organic deodorant.
If you’re still doubting non-toxic deo, keep scrolling because we’re shedding light on everything from clean ingredients (and can they really combat BO?), to baking soda rashes, sweating, pit stains and pretty much everything in between.
Myth #1: Ingredients aren’t that big of a deal.
Biggest myth ever of all time. Here’s why: The deodorant you’re applying every single day isn’t just staying on the surface of your skin.
The truth is, our bodies have been designed to absorb a big part of the products we apply, plus our delicate underarms are right next to some major lymph nodes and breast tissue, so the ingredients you’re swiping on your pits are actually impacting your health more than you might realize.
Think about it: traditional deodorants are filled with ingredients like fragrance (also known as the “new second-hand smoke”), aluminum and parabens that are linked to sickness + serious diseases. Our bodies can often handle occasional chemicals BUT when exposed consistently and daily, disease and health conditions are more likely to happen.
By simply swapping out triclosan, propylene glycol, phthalates, and benzyl salicylate (oh, um, if you need to look up these terms because you have no idea what they are, go right ahead!) with non-toxic alternatives such as arrowroot powder, beeswax, kaolin clay and organic essential oils (aka ingredients you don’t have to Google), minimizes the amount of toxic buildup in your body – and can still effectively fight B.O.
Trust us, while we’re all about ingredients sourced from nature that are safe for the body + pure for the skin, we are not about to give up smelling good! 🙂
Myth #2: Rashes, redness and irritation, oh my!
In most natural formulas, baking soda is a key ingredient to neutralize odor – but can create unwelcome skin irritations for certain skin states. While baking soda has gotten a bad rap for causing sensitivities, surprisingly, it may not be the only culprit.
Try taking a closer look at the ingredient list.
One of the top offenders for skin allergies and irritation is fragrance – and is disguised under the term “natural” (which it’s anything but). And although several “natural” brands claim to be aluminum-free, many are loaded with fillers and other harmful ingredients that can lead to adverse reactions not just on your skin, but in your body.
If your search to find a formula that fights B.O. without compromising your skin barrier feels impossible, we’ve got some *good* news. Natural deodorant and underarm rashes don’t have to go hand in hand.
While baking soda really is one of the best ingredient to keep unwanted odor under wraps, it doesn’t mean that pit irritation is inevitable. Through years of trial + error, we’ve created this deodorant with just the right amount of baking soda (you know, Goldilocks style) plus we’ve fortified the formula with super nourishing, skin-soothing ingredients to also protect the delicate skin barrier – and of course, no chemicals, artificial fragrances or fillers needed.
Pit Tip: If you still feel your skin is reacting to natural deo, try making this diy pit detox to minimize inflammation or check out this post for more holistic tips to detox and decrease any risk of rashes.
Myth #3: It leaves residue/ruins my clothes.
This myth is an easy one to debunk. Simply put, if this has been your experience, you’re most likely applying too much.
While you might be used to swiping several times with antiperspirants you’ve used in the past, natural deodorant is made with pure, concentrated ingredients so a little goes a long way. Stick to 1-3 light swipes for all-day odor protection and to keep clothes clean.
If you want to take an extra step to ensure your favorite top is stain-free, just dab the deodorant on and give it a few minutes to fully absorb! (And for any set-in stains, just toss your top in the wash with our favorite non-toxic laundry soap).
Myth #4: I still sweat.
This myth isn’t actually a myth… it’s true. You are going to sweat, and you’re welcome. 😉 But what is actually a myth is the fact that we “shouldn’t sweat”, or that it’s a “bad thing”.
Transitioning to natural deodorant takes more than just a physical adjustment, but a mental one as well – especially in a culture that’s deemed sweating as dirty, bad or, God forbid, something women actually do.
Our natural deodorant is not an antiperspirant – and for really good reason. Antiperspirant contains aluminum which blocks sweat glands and inhibits their natural cleansing and detoxifying functions. Instead, it adds to the problem of toxic buildup in our bodies by trapping toxins, heavy metals, hormone disruptors and other harmful substances within the body.
Are these risks worth staying dry all day long?
Here’s the truth: Sweating is SO good for you. It’s a healthy, natural + necessary function to rid the body of toxic buildup and keep your body balanced. You will sweat (and you may be a little extra sweaty as your body rids itself of toxins when you first make the switch) but our natural alternative has a cumulative effect and the longer you use it, the better it works.
Myth #5: Natural deodorant doesn’t work… for me.
“Sure, natural deodorants probably work for some people, but not for me.” Has this thought ever crossed your mind?
Whether you live in crazy hot temps, work super long shifts, lead a very active lifestyle, believe chemicals can only mask your manly aroma, or fill in the blank… do you feel like you’re the only one who just can’t find a natural deodorant that does the job?
We feel you, we’ve been there too.
Based on thousands of customer reviews + personal stories, we know that finding a non-toxic deodorant that works for your sensitive skin, specific body chemistry or lifestyle can be somewhat of a process. We want to validate your personal experience (it’s true sometimes the transition can be a bit tough!) and still want to encourage you that your natural deo soulmate is still out there – you just might have to kiss a few frogs first. 😉
And hopefully, by debunking the myths above, you’ll find that maybe, just maybe, natural deo will work for you too.
If you have any more natural deodorant myths you’ve heard or need help adjusting to a new deo, leave your questions below and our team will be happy to help! XO
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