Applying deodorant is just another habit in our morning routine, as natural as brushing our teeth or washing our face. As we rush to get ready each morning, our deodorant isn't something we put much thought into…but should we? Sure, deodorant and antiperspirants keep us dry and feeling fresh throughout the day, but commercially produced products are known to contain harsh chemicals that can cause skin sensitivities and even put us at risk for health concerns. Fortunately, there’s no need to give up deodorant entirely to avoid these ingredients. Instead, consider switching to a natural deodorant, which can provide effective odor protection without all the junk. Intrigued? Keep reading to learn more about the health, skin, and other benefits of switching to a natural deodorant.
Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant
First, let’s make an important distinction between two products: deodorant, and antiperspirant. While most commercial options offer both products in one, there is a difference between the two. Deodorant neutralizes sweat and provides odor protection, while antiperspirant reduces the amount you sweat. This is a key difference to understand when evaluating natural products – while natural deodorants are available, there is not a natural solution for antiperspirants, since they work against the body’s natural function.
Does Deodorant Contain Harmful Ingredients?
If you’re reading this, you’re probably at least a little familiar with the potential health concerns linked to many deodorant ingredients. Rumors abound that the harsh chemicals and aluminum in deodorants can cause cognitive illness or even various types of cancer. The research is mixed on this topic – while researchers have found links to certain deodorant ingredients and poor health outcomes, a causal relationship has yet to be defined. However, researchers have been transparent about the need for further research in this area.
In the meantime, we can operate on what we already do know about commercial deodorants: parabens, phthalates, and aluminum are all ingredients that have been linked to poor health outcomes and are included in many commercial deodorants today. Specifically, these ingredients have been linked to hormone disruptions and thyroid interference, amongst other issues…so while we can’t say for certain if today’s common deodorant ingredients cause cancer, we know confidently that they are causing various other health concerns. And the more you apply them, the more you are exposing yourself to chemicals and synthetic ingredients.
You see, not only do these ingredients artificially block your natural sweat glands, but they can also travel through the epidermis of the skin, and into the bloodstream. As if making their way into your internal systems isn’t bad enough, these ingredients can also increase your need for deodorant over time. Because they prevent sweating by blocking your pores, deodorants and antiperspirants build up over your time, in the pores and on the surface of the skin. This builds up, combined with natural bacteria on your skin, can increase odor and lead to more deodorant use. Talk about a vicious cycle!
Switching to Natural Deodorant
Switching to natural deodorant can have several positive outcomes for you and your skin! First of all, natural deodorant neutralizes odor and provides protection without harmful ingredients or blocking of your pores. Natural deodorant utilizes baking soda and other safe ingredients to defend against odor caused by sweat and bacteria. Some natural products also include essential oils, which provide a light and natural fresh scent, along with aromatherapy benefits. Selecting natural deodorant is a great step towards living a more natural life, with reduced use of chemicals or synthetic ingredients. If you’re worried about toxin exposure or have health concerns, natural deodorant might be a good choice for you.
Another great reason to select natural deodorant is if you struggle with sensitive or reactive skin. If you’re struggling to find a product that doesn’t irritate your skin, a natural deodorant with a shorter ingredient list might work for you! This is one of the reasons we use only therapeutic grade essential oils to scent our deodorant – because essential oils are very gentle on the skin and provide fragrance without irritation. Additionally, if you have sensitive or irritated skin after shaving or waxing, you don’t want to coat your skin with chemicals or aluminum. The plant-based and natural ingredients in natural products won’t clog your pores and further irritate your skin. Instead, they provide a soothing experience. At Madd House Hill, our natural deodorant also includes goat milk, which calms sensitive skin as it nourishes and rehydrates.
Finally, switching to natural deodorant doesn’t stop your body from sweating, which is an important biological function! It’s actually very important for your health to sweat regularly. Sweating helps your skin filter out toxins, which boosts the immune system. Plus, sweating is the natural way our body maintains proper temperature. Using natural deodorant allows your body to resume these natural functions. In fact, many users find that with time, they sweat less using natural deodorant, as their bodies adjust to life without antiperspirant and clogged pores.
…But Does It Work?
When considering the switch to natural deodorant, one of your biggest concerns may be if natural deodorant actually works. And the answer is an enthusiastic “Yes!”. But how? Natural deodorants don’t plug your sweat glands to stop you from sweating, instead using naturally absorbent ingredients, like baking soda, to absorb sweat and stop odor. They also include anti-bacterial ingredients, such as coconut oil, to neutralize odor caused by naturally occurring bacteria on the skin. Finally, they usually contain a pleasant scent, to provide a final layer of protection against odor. As an added bonus, you can finally be rid of those annoying white streaks on your clothes! Yes, it's true. Natural deodorant won't leave you with those embarrassing white marks.
If and when you’re ready to make the switch to natural deodorant, consider our own all-natural deodorant. Not only does it provide effective protection with all natural ingredients such as baking soda, coconut oil, and shea butter, but it includes 100% goat’s milk, a premium ingredient in skin care. Goat milk soothes, nourishes, and rejuvenates the sensitive skin of your underarms while also delivering essential vitamins and minerals.
Making the switch is as easy as reading the labels of your current products, subbing in a more natural option, and voilà! You’re done. Your skin will thank you!
Until next time,
Madd House Hill