Help Me Choose: Deodorant

    Why We Have Different Deodorant Formulations

    No two people are alike as far as their body chemistry goes. Gender, age, race, hormone fluctuations, diet, health, and even medications can affect body chemistry. Body chemistry comes into play with deodorant more than any other hygiene product. For example:

    • A deodorant that works well for one person may not work for another.
    • A deodorant that works well in the beginning, may become less effective after time passes and your body adapts.
    • A deodorant that does not work at first, might work great after a little time.

    We Have Three Different Natural Deodorant Formulations

    Our Coconut Cream and Coconut Stick deodorants combat odor using naturally antibacterial coconut oil, baking soda which raises the pH making the underarm less friendly to odor-causing bacteria, and essential oils (except the natural scent) to help combat odor. Organic cornstarch or arrowroot powder helps absorb perspiration.

    These two natural deodorant formulas are similar, but the ingredients and ratios differ slightly.

    Our Clay Silk deodorants contain no baking soda and rely on virgin coconut oil and essential oils to combat odor. Bentonite clay and organic arrowroot powder help absorb perspiration.

     

    A Note About Baking Soda

    Natural Baking Soda DeodorantAlthough many people use baking soda-based deodorants without any problems, some are sensitive to baking soda when used on delicate armpit skin.

    Human sweat is slightly acidic with a pH range of 4 to 6. The natural pH of an individual's sweat can actually cause an irritation or even a burning sensation when mixed with baking soda.

    Why? If your sweat is more on the acidic side, there may actually be a little chemical reaction between the alkaline baking soda and the acidic sweat.

    Coconut Cream Deodorant

    Organic Coconut Cream Deodorant

    Our organic cream deodorant is made with soothing and moisturizing organic ingredients that absorb quickly, leave no greasy residue and help you stay fresh naturally.

    The Coconut Cream Deodorants are our extra strength deodorants that combat odor using naturally antibacterial coconut oil, baking soda which raises pH making underarms less friendly to odor-causing bacteria, and essential oils (except the natural scent). Plus, they contain organic arrowroot which helps absorb perspiration.

    Available in four essential oil scent blends and one unscented. This product is not an antiperspirant and the natural ingredients will not clog pores.

    If you would like an applicator for our natural cream deodorant, try the backside of our oval bamboo spatula!

     

    Coconut Cream Deodorant

     

    Coconut Stick Deodorant

    Natural_Organic_Stick_Deodorant

    A safe, effective organic deodorant in a "stick" form. The soothing and moisturizing organic ingredients absorb quickly, leave no greasy residue and help you stay fresh naturally

    We call this our regular strength deodorant. The Coconut Stick Deodorants have all of the properties of our coconut cream deodorant, with a bit more beeswax, a bit less baking soda, and even more moisturizing shea butter.

    Available in four essential oil scent blends and one unscented. This product is not an antiperspirant and the natural ingredients will not clog pores.

    Committed to our "plastic-free" packaging, our deodorant is packaged in a 100% recyclable paperboard push-up tube

     

    Coconut Stick Deodorant

     

    Clay Silk Deodorants

    Organic Clay Deodorant Sensitive Skin

    Our Clay Silk Deodorants, for sensitive skin, contain no baking soda.

    These organic mineral cream deodorants combine the natural antibacterial properties of virgin coconut oil and essential oils to minimize and neutralize odors naturally.

    Nutrient-rich bentonite clay is well known for its absorbent properties, and arrowroot powder helps absorb sweat naturally. This deodorant is not an antiperspirant and the natural ingredients will not clog pores.

    A great alternative for those who are seeking a natural deodorant without baking soda.

    If you would like an applicator for our natural clay cream deodorant, try the backside of our oval bamboo spatula!

     

    Clay Silk Deodorant

     

    Tips for Using a Natural Deodorant

    Keep Underarms Clean: Lather up those armpits really well to remove bacteria, sweat, oils and old deodorant before you apply a natural deodorant. If you are concerned about sensitivities, be sure to also wash before going to bed.

    A Little Goes a Long Way: Our natural deodorant formulas are designed to allow the natural warmth of your body to soften the deodorant for better absorption and a smoother, more even application. Apply a little bit and allow the deodorant to soften--it just takes a few seconds. You may be tempted to over-apply, but more is not better, a little goes a long way.

    Shaving: Razors cause microscopic tears, actual little open wounds, in the skin. We suggest shaving at night to allow your underarms to rest before applying deodorant. Be sure to use a clean razor and change blades often for a less irritating shave.

    Adjustment Period: If you have just switched from a chemical-based deodorant or antiperspirant to a natural, organic deodorant, your body chemistry may need a week or two to adjust to the change. You may experience some initial irritation as your body adjusts.

    Help With Irritation: Redness, irritation or a rash indicates that your underarms are bothered by something. With natural deodorants, it is often from the amount baking soda or an essential oil sensitivity. Knowing that our body chemistries are different, we offer our 3 different formulations. We also offer a variety of essential oil blends as well as unscented versions.

    No two people are alike as far as their body chemistry goes. Gender, age, race, hormone fluctuations, diet, health and even medications can affect body chemistry. Body chemistry comes into play with deodorant more than any other hygiene product. For example:

    • A deodorant that works well for one person may not work for another.
    • A deodorant that works well in the beginning, may become less effective after time passes and your body adapts.
    • A deodorant that does not work at first, might work great after a little time.

    The Science of Sweat: How Natural Deodorants Work

    Sweating and body odor come from secretions of two types sweat glands, eccrine glands, and apocrine glands.

    The majority of sweat glands, eccrine glands, are found over most of the body and open directly onto the surface of the skin. The “sweat” from these glands is composed mainly of water, salt, and trace amounts of other electrolytes that help regulate the balance of fluids in your body. The sweat produced by these glands does not contribute to body odor. Read More about the science of sweat and deodorant

    Underarm Skin Is Very Sensitive

    Did you ever notice that so many people are ticklish under their arms? Your underarms are one of the most sensitive parts of your body.

    Natural Organic Deodorant Sensitive SkinWhy Are Underarms More Sensitive?
    • Underarm skin is thinner than the skin on other parts of your body
    • This thin, delicate skin, prone to allergic reactions, fosters irritation
    • Underarm skin is not exposed to outside elements which often makes skin "tougher"
    • Underarms usually get very little sunlight
    • The warm, moist environment is a breeding ground for bacteria
    • The friction that occurs when underarms rub against skin or clothing can cause skin irritation
    • Underarms are home to lots of nerves and lymph nodes

    You may notice that you can feel a simple touch more than you can on other areas of the body. When you add up all of these factors you can see why underarm skin is not only more sensitive, but also more prone to irritation.

    Underarm Care
    • Keep underarms clean
    • Shaving can really irritate skin
    • Be sure to moisturize after shaving
    • Shave at night before bedtime to allow the skin heal a bit overnight
    • Underarm pores can get clogged, so it is a good idea to gently exfoliate the area
    • Since this area is so sensitive, use the gentler products made to exfoliate your face rather than your body and do not use scratchy accessories, like loofahs, when washing which may irritate
    • Use a moisturizing deodorant made with simple natural and organic ingredients

    Natural Deodorant Adjustment Period

    The ingredients in our organic deodorant are simple and natural. But, if you have just switched from a chemical-based deodorant or antiperspirant to a natural, organic deodorant, your body chemistry may need a week or two to adjust to the change. You may experience some initial irritation as your body adjusts.

    People who switch from using commercial antiperspirant or deodorant to a natural deodorant are often told that their underarms will experience a “detox” period. There are even companies that sell armpit detox products. You do NOT need to buy armpit "detox" kits.

    Our bodies are quite resistant to change. Our bodies enjoy the status quo.

    They see change as a disruption and often resist change even if it is a positive one. When we change anything, especially something we have been doing for a long time whether it be diet, exercise, skin care, shampoo, or deodorant, our body simply needs time to adjust and accept the change.

    No two people are alike as far as their body chemistry goes. Gender, age, race, hormone fluctuations, diet, health and even medications can affect body chemistry.

    Body chemistry comes into play with deodorant more than any other hygiene product.

    • A deodorant that works well for one person may not work for another.
    • A deodorant that works well in the beginning may not work as well after time passes and your body adapts.
    • A deodorant that does not work at first, might work great after a little time.
    • That's simply the nature of all deodorants, especially 100% natural ones.
    Additional Reading

    Is There Aluminum in Baking Soda?
    Why Use A Natural Deodorant

    Transitioning to Natural Deodorant

     

    Word of Caution About "Fragrance"

    Fragrances in deodorant help mask body odor and deliver a feeling of freshness. However, synthetic fragrances can really irritate delicate armpit skin and are often a leading cause of skin sensitivities and rashes.

    Even some "natural" deodorant brands include artificial fragrances. It is always important to read the ingredients! Check the deodorant ingredient list for the words fragrance, perfume, or parfum.

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    Allergies

    People with severe allergies—please note: If you have severe anaphylactic-type reactions to ANY of the ingredients in ANY of our products, please do not buy our products. We have dedicated soap rooms and product rooms that are kept meticulously clean, but we cannot guarantee against possible cross-contamination of individual ingredients.

    Chagrin Valley Soap & Craft is not responsible for any individual reaction to any particular ingredient. Each product description on our website includes a complete list of ingredients. People with sensitivities to any listed ingredient should not use the product. In case you are in doubt always try an allergy patch test and if at any time irritation occurs, discontinue use of the product.

    Medical Disclaimer

    The content and information on this website, provided by The Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve Company, is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended and should not be construed as medical advice to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. The information regarding folklore or health-related benefits of certain ingredients is for educational purposes only. The information provided is not intended to prescribe or be taken as medical advice.

    The information provided is not meant to substitute the advice provided by your personal physician or other medical professionals. Do not use the information found on this website to self-diagnose any medical conditions or treat any health problems or diseases. If you have medical concerns regarding yourself or your family you should seek the advice of qualified, licensed health professionals. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

    This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This notice is required by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.

    Read our Full Medical Disclaimer.