Help Me Choose: Natural Deodorants

    Why We Have Different Deodorant Formulations

    No two people are alike, especially when it comes to their body chemistry. 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 bit of time.

    We Have Three Different Natural Deodorant Formulations

    All of our natural deodorants are: aluminum-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, artificial fragrance-free, preservative-free, synthetic-free, plastic-free, eco-friendly, and sustainable. 

    Our Extra Strength Cream and Regular Strength Stick deodorants are USDA Certified Organic. They 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 Simply Natural" scent) to help combat odor. 

    While ingredients in these two natural deodorant formulas are similar, the ingredient ratios are very different.

    Our Sensitive Skin Deodorants contain no baking soda and rely on virgin coconut oil, magnesium hydroxide, and essential oils (except the Simply Natural" scent) to combat odor. Although all ingredients (except the magnesium hydroxide) are certified organic, these deodorant cannot be labeled organic due to the magnesium hydroxide which apparently is not used in agriculture or food other than to help cows with stomach issues -- one of my pet peeves. 

    Extra Strength Cream Deodorant

    Natural Organic Extra Strength Cream Deodorant

    This natural creamy deodorant formula features a few simple ingredients.

    • Tapioca flour soothes delicate skin and absorb perspiration
    • Beeswax is moisturizing and adds a smooth texture to the deodorant
    • Virgin Coconut Oil, Virgin Shea Butter, and Golden Jojoba Oil hydrate protect and soothe skin
    • Baking soda for odor control
    • Essential oils (except "Simply Natural") add a lovely scent plus properties that help eliminate odor. 

    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.

    We call these Cream Deodorants  our Extra Strength Deodorants because they contain more baking soda than our stick deodorants.

    Baking Soda is effective at absorbing all types of moisture, including sweat, which makes it useful for keeping underarms dry.

    It also effectively kills odor causing bacteria. By neutralizing the acid in sweat, the underarm environment becomes less friendly to odor-causing bacteria thus preventing body odor from forming.

    While some people choose to stay away from baking soda, others actually prefer it because it is the only thing that actually works for them!

    We make five Extra Strength deodorants, four essential oil scent blends and one unscented. This product is not an antiperspirant and the natural ingredients will not clog pores.

    Read, How To Use A Natural Cream Deodorant: Basic Instructions

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

     

    Coconut Cream Deodorant

     

    Stick Deodorant

    Organic Deodorant Stick - Lemongrass Tea Tree

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

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

    Unfortunately many stick deodorants made with baking soda have a rough texture causing extra friction on the underarms. Our new and improved stick deodorant formula has a smooth and silky glide!

    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

     

    Sensitive Skin Cream Deodorant

    Our Sensitive Skin Deodorants are a great alternative for those who are seeking a natural deodorant without baking soda.

    This natural creamy deodorant formula features a few simple ingredients.

    • Tapioca flour soothes delicate skin and absorb perspiration
    • Beeswax is moisturizing and adds a smooth texture to the deodorant
    • Virgin Coconut Oil, Virgin Shea Butter, and Golden Jojoba Oil hydrate protect and soothe skin
    • Magnesium Hydroxide for odor control
    • Essential oils (except "Simply Natural") add a lovely scent plus properties that help eliminate odor

    Magnesium hydroxide is used in a natural deodorant for the same reason as baking soda, it alters the pH of the skin to make it more alkaline.

     So why is magnesium hydroxide better for those with sensitive skin compared to baking soda? They differ in how they react with water (in this case sweat). Magnesium hydroxide is less water-soluble which means it takes longer to fully dissolve in the sweat. Think of it as a “slow-release” antibacterial which allows the armpit a bit more time to adjust to the increase in pH.

    Learn More: Magnesium Hydroxide vs Baking Soda

    We make five Sensitive Skin deodorants, 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 clay cream deodorant, try the backside of our oval bamboo spatula!

    Sensitive Skin Cream Deodorant

     

    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
    • Certain ingredients in commercial deodorants and antiperspirants can cause underarm pores to become clogged. You can  gently exfoliate the area using the gentler products made to exfoliate your face rather than your body
    • Do not use super scratchy accessories, like loofahs, when washing which may irritate
    • Use a moisturizing deodorant made with simple natural and organic ingredients

    Natural Deodorant 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.

    Natural Organic Stick and Cream Deodorant: Regular Strength, Extra Strength, Sensitive SkinA lot depends on the type of bacteria lives on your skin and your own body chemistry which varies with your genetics, gender, age, race, diet, lifestyle, hormones, health, medications and even the clothes that you wear.

    This is why a deodorant that works for one person may not work for another.

    This is NOT a "detox" period. 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 it 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.

    As you switch to a natural deodorant, the microbiome in your armpit will change. Since this natural change is affected by the type of products used over the years as well as your own unique body chemistry, the timeline varies from person to person.

    For a more in-depth explanation please read, Transitioning to Natural Deodorant: Why Do Some Experience an Adjustment Period?

     

    Help With Irritation

    Redness, irritation or a rash indicates that your underarms are bothered by something. With natural deodorants, the application process is often the culprit. Are you applying too much deodorant? Are you allowing the deodorant to warm a bit on your skin before spreading? Dragging a deodorant across delicate underarm skin can cause irritation. 

    You may be experiencing a reaction to one the the ingredients. Or your armpits may simply be annoyed that you are making a 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. 

    For a more detailed explanation please read, Transitioning to Natural Deodorant: Part 2

     

    Review 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. Follow the directions on the products pages. 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. Remember This is NOT a "detox" period. 

    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.