Natural Deodorant: Benefits, What To Expect & More

We all know we’re supposed to be using natural deodorants - but why? And how can you make the switch without Eau de body odour becoming your signature scent? To help us transition smoothly (and less smelly-like), we asked Naturopath Angela Cali to help us put together the ultimate guide to switching to natural deodorant...

Why should I be switching to a natural deodorant?

Angela says the main reason to make the switch is ‘to reduce the chemical load on the body’. “Many deodorants contain synthetic fragrances, one being petrochemicals, which are harmful to the human body,” says Angela. The fresh smell of regular deodorants is a big reason people keep using them, but it turns out that’s the very reason we shouldn’t be. According to Angela, “fragrances may also contain phthalates which mimic the hormone oestrogen. This can disrupt the hormonal system and has been linked to breast cancer.” Scary.

And breast cancer isn’t the only illness antiperspirants have been linked to. “Antiperspirants contain the heavy metal aluminium, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease,” says Angela. “Whilst the evidence isn’t conclusive, avoidance is encouraged until proven to be safe. Antiperspirants don’t allow the body’s natural ability to rid toxins and hence compromise the eliminative organ, that being the skin.”

What do you need to do before applying natural deodorant?

The application process of a natural deodorant isn’t any different from a regular one. “After a shower, towel dry area and then apply natural deodorant to clean, dry skin for best results,” says Angela.

Can you use natural deodorants if you live an active lifestyle?

Yep - but you might have to shop around. Angela says “there are many natural deodorants on the market that are suitable for active individuals. You will need to test a few to find the best one that works for you.”

Do you have to apply natural deodorant more often than regular deodorant?

This will depend on how active a lifestyle you lead, but Angela says that it should be a max of twice-daily - any more and it could be time to try a new one.

Is it possible for a natural deodorant to work as well as a regular deodorant?

According to Angela, that’s a yes! But it might take a while to find your perfect fit. “The key is to try a few different types. The natural pastes work exceptionally well”.

Does it take some time for a natural deodorant to be fully effective?

You (and your patient loved ones) might have to put up with a touch of body odour, but it shouldn’t be for more than a few days. If your natural deodorant doesn’t seem to be working, Angela says you shouldn’t give up on natural deodorants completely, but try another one.

Can natural deodorants irritate your skin?

Just as fragrances in regular deodorant aren’t great for you, Angela’s tip for avoiding irritation is “avoid natural deodorants with fragrances and perfumes, as these contain synthetic chemicals that may irritate the skin”.

bh loves: A’kin Geranium & Cedarwood Natural Roll-On Deodorant, sebamed Roll On Deodorant Blossom, Weleda Citrus Deodorant, Dermal Therapy™ Crystal Deodorant.

Have you made the switch?

25 Member Comments

Susmat 3 Apr 2020 6:53 PM

Natural crystal deodorant works well for me

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Lisa359 3 Apr 2020 3:11 PM

I use them in winter or if I'm staying at home (hello self-isolation) I find giving my armpits a good wash with charcoal soap gets rid of any lingering odours and keeps them fresher when using a natural deodorent,

Albinopirate 12 Sep 2019 9:15 AM

I use my natural deodorants everyday and have done for over 2 years. For special occasions i will use a lady speed stick deo or mitchum 48 hr intensive antiperspirant (like i did on my wedding day) but i always find i end up smelling MORE on those days - go figure!

ThisIsMe 5 Sep 2019 8:51 AM

I don't think they are very effective personally I think they would leave you feeling wet and yuck. I prefer much stronger stuff even though it's worse for you.

S-P 4 Sep 2019 1:01 PM

Natural deodorants are certainly worth trying to see if they last the distance.

cityglenda 4 Sep 2019 9:42 AM

I have a Grants Crystal Deodorant that I've had since 2006 (yes I wrote the purchase date on it because I was told it would last for years). I find that I can only use it during Winter as it doesn't seem to work that well for me during the rest of the year.

NellAdams 4 Sep 2019 12:36 AM

I am loving the Sukin natural deodorant so far but am a little unsure of how effective it is. And I'm too embarassed to ask people LOL

misfortune8 4 Sep 2019 12:28 AM

I use natural deodorants throughout winter, but when the weather heats up, I go back to regular antiperspirant. I haven't tried any of these brands, but I wouldn't mind trying them.

Miss19 3 Sep 2019 11:35 PM

I have been using the deodorant by Akin for awhile now and I love it. It keeps me smelling great and it feels good knowing that it's natural

skincare junkie 3 Sep 2019 9:59 PM

I still do not need a deodorant (yet). Hopefully won't have to as I get older!

beautyfun 3 Sep 2019 9:35 PM

I don't often need any.

Tee631 3 Sep 2019 8:58 PM

I like the idea

CaitMay 3 Sep 2019 8:36 PM

Pass on this. They just don’t work.

Karma Llama 3 Sep 2019 8:25 PM

I keep searching for the perfect natural deo. Currently trying Native which worked really well to start off with, but now I seem to have gone backwards on it? Has anyone else found that? I thought it might just be as toxins expel from the body so I am persevering and hope to see improvement soon.

clearcrystalwater 3 Sep 2019 6:28 PM

I have both types but I always feel much better about using the natural one. I just know it's safer.

Goddess..... 3 Sep 2019 6:26 PM

Thanks for the article & keeping us inform with important info but I'm gonna stick with my Nivea roll-on deodorant instead. I like the A'Kin natural deodorant during the colder month's but it's not good for summer so I won't be making the switch & besides I don't sweat that much.

Yohanna 3 Sep 2019 5:44 PM

Yes! Love a good natural based concoction. They are better for our health and environment indeed!

Ellyloves 3 Sep 2019 5:35 PM

Is it bad that I have never used any

Shop A Everyday 3 Sep 2019 5:07 PM

I like they don't irritate my skin

Sootyhere 3 Sep 2019 4:45 PM

Thanks for the information

Nicoler112 3 Sep 2019 4:09 PM

think I will consider the switch soon. Thanks for the recommendations

Skincare Aussie 3 Sep 2019 4:05 PM

This is something I've been more interested lately. In fact, I was just browser shopping earlier but none of these brands listed.

MoonlightSak16 3 Sep 2019 4:00 PM

I would like a list of all the natural deodorant available in the market apart from the ones mentioned in this article.

Margi59 3 Sep 2019 3:51 PM

Interesting article on deodorants and the reasons we should try Natural Deodorants, I am unsure of there staying power, especially under extreme heat. Definitely like Nivea's Active Deodorant because it seems to have staying power, especially for those of us who perspire more than others.

Many Natural Deodorants leave you feeling moist. Would give the Dermal Therapy Crystal Deodorant a try.

Rose_P 3 Sep 2019 3:39 PM

I’m very particular when it comes to personal hygiene. I’ve read articles elsewhere about natural deodorants. I’m just not sure. I think I’ll stick to my Rexona for now.

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