Making the Switch to Low-Tox Deodorant: What to Expect and My Favorite Picks
Let’s talk about deodorant! I know it’s hard to think about throwing out the Secret anti-perspirant that you’ve used since middle school! No one wants to sweat a lot or smell! Haha! As someone who nervously sweats, I’m here to tell you, it can be done with a little trial and error I promise! It’s also something that is super important to me health wise because I have read a lot of scary things about the long term use of anti-perspirants and the chemicals in deodorants.
If you’ve been thinking about switching to a low-tox deodorant but aren’t sure where to start, I’ve got you! I made the switch a while ago, and while it took some trial and error, I found what works—and I’ll share all the details with you here.
Why Switch to Low-Tox Deodorant?
Conventional deodorants and antiperspirants often contain aluminum, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and other questionable ingredients. Many of these can be irritating to the skin, disrupt hormones, or block your body’s natural detox process (aka sweating!). Low-tox deodorants skip these harsh additives and use naturally derived ingredients to keep you fresh without the toxins.
The Transition Period: What to Expect
If you’re used to conventional antiperspirants, switching to a natural deodorant can feel like an adjustment. Here’s what to expect:
Your body will detox. You may notice more sweat and odor for a short time as your body adjusts. This is totally normal!
Not all natural deodorants work the same. You might need to try a couple of brands to find what works best for you.
Sweating is natural. Unlike antiperspirants, low-tox deodorants won’t stop you from sweating (which is actually a good thing!). Instead, they help neutralize odor and absorb moisture.
My Favorite Low-Tox Deodorants
Through trial and error, I’ve found a few favorites that actually work. I do have to switch things up every few months, but these are brands I have tried and loved. Right now, I’m using the Wild brand! I linked lots of favorites here from Amazon for easy shopping!
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Exfoliate your underarms a few times a week to help remove buildup from conventional products.
Try an armpit detox (a simple mix of bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar) to speed up the transition period. I wrote out this recipe below!
Give it time. Your body may need a couple of weeks to adjust, but once it does, you’ll likely notice less odor overall!
Keep scrolling for a few recipes! Have you made this switch? I’d love to know about it!
XO
Sarah
Recipes:
If you don’t sweat much you might consider making this spray! My lucky husband barely needs a deodorant and this is his go to favorite recipe!
Body Spray Recipe:
4 oz spray bottle
40 drops essential oils of your choice (Joe typically uses a tree oil and citrus combo like Pine + Orange, Northern Lights Black Spruce + Tangerine, or Cypress + Orange)
Armpit Detox:
1 tsp witch hazel
1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
Top with Distilled water.
In a plastic or wood bowl, combine 2T Bentonite clay and 2T apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine with a wood spoon or plastic facial brush. (You can’t use metal with the clay, it makes it less effective.) Spread on armpits and let dry, about 15 min. Wipe clean with a warm, wet cloth. Repeat weekly or as necessary.
I did this for a few weeks when I first started with natural deodorant. This charcoal mask is also great for a detox. Also, it’s a good idea to avoid this after shaving because the vinegar can aggravate skin. Now that I’ve been using natural deodorant for a few years I am adjusted and just use the mask a few times a year
You can also just use a roller top on Patchouli or Geranium as a deodorant if you like those scents! I find I need more of a real deodorant, but this works for so many people!
Ingredients to watch out for:
1) Aluminum: Aluminum is a heavy metal often found in anti perspirants and some deodorants. It plugs the sweat glands and prevents you from sweating. The issue with this ingredient is that it’s a neurotoxin and not safe when being used repeatedly on the skin near lymph nodes and breast tissue.
2) Triclosan: Many deodorants include triclosan because it supposedly kills germs that cause body odor. The issue is that this is a known endocrine disrupter. The FDA has actually banned the use of this chemical in hand soaps, but still allow its use in deodorants.
3) Phthalates: Another hormone disrupter commonly used because it makes the final product more flexible. It can cause endocrine disruption in men and women.
4) Parabens: These are typically used in conjunction with other chemicals to prevent mold and preserve the product. The problem is that they disrupt hormones, particularly they mimic estrogen in the body.
5) Artificial fragrance: Fragrance is not regulated, so companies can put whatever they want under this umbrella term when making a product and they do not have to disclose ingredients. The danger is in what they aren’t telling us! Choose products where the company discloses ALL the ingredients in the fragrance.
What ingredients should you look for?
1) Coconut oil or other natural oils like almond
2) Candelilla wax
3) Shea butter
4) Arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, or baking soda (This does irritate some, but has never bothered me.)
5) Activated charcoal
6) Essential oils for scent. Each should be listed, if not on the product, then you should be able to find easily on the company website.