Why Switching to Natural Deodorants Can Improve Your Health
As a certified organic skincare formulator, I’ve seen firsthand the growing trend towards natural deodorants and the significant health benefits they can offer.
Commercial deodorants and antiperspirants are a staple in many of our daily routines. And, yes, they’re packed with aluminium compounds, synthetic fragrances, and other chemicals designed to block sweat glands and keep body odour at bay. (
While these ingredients get the job done, they’ve also raised a few eyebrows.
They most definitely raised mine!
Aluminium, in particular, has sparked a lot of debate due to concerns about its potential links to various health issues.
I personally believe that ANYTHING THAT BLOCKS YOUR YOUR BODY’S NATURAL PROCESSES can’t be good for you. The idea of all these antiperspirants (and even the deodorants!) is to prevent your body from sweating. Isn’t this something YOUR BODY IS MEANT TO DO? After all, sweating is a vital way for your body to DETOXIFY and REGULATE TEMPERATURE. So why interfere with that?
So, if you’re starting to wonder what’s in that stick you reach for every morning, you’re not alone.
In this guide, I’ll show you why natural deodorants are MORE than just a trend or something people buy “to feel natural”. They actually might just be the upgrade your body’s been waiting for.
Let’s get into it.
Read labels
Head towards the bathroom, open the cabinet, grab your deodorant or antiperspirant and read the label.
They’re basically loaded with aluminium compounds, synthetic fragrances, and other chemicals that are basically designed to do two things—BLOCK your sweat glands and COVER UP any body odour. And, yes, they do this pretty well.
But aluminium has been at the centre of some serious debate when it comes to health concerns. If you’re in the mood, check some reports out. Mainly you get the “there’s not enough evidence” but the rumours are out there. I am not risking it.
The benefits of natural deodorants
I’m assuming you’ve been thinking about making the switch to natural deodorants, if you haven’t done so yet.
If you do, here’s what you’re signing up for:
1. Aluminum-free protection
Yes, their biggest selling point, they’re TOTALLY aluminium-free. Unlike conventional deodorants that block your sweat glands, natural ones let your body do its thing. They work by neutralising the bacteria that cause odour and soaking up moisture using natural ingredients. Yes, you will still get to feel fresh and confident all day long, without stopping your body from sweating naturally. I like that.
2. Gentle on sensitive skin
If you’ve got sensitive skin, this is important. Most natural deodorants are packed with soothing ingredients. Think shea butter, coconut oil, natural powders like arrowroot, etc.. These ingredients are way less likely to cause any irritation or allergic reactions, making them a dream for anyone with sensitive skin, eczema, or psoriasis. BE CAREFUL with baking soda, some natural deodorants have it and it might not be for you if you have sensitive skin.
3. Allows natural perspiration
I love thiso ne. Sweating is important, and good for you. It’s how your body cools down and gets rid of toxins. Natural deodorants respect this process by letting you sweat while keeping odour in check. By allowing your body to perspire naturally, you’re not just staying cool—you’re also helping it flush out the toxins it needs to get rid of. You can think of it as a little “daily detox”.
The key ingredients in natural deodorants
Natural deodorants rely on a clever mix of plant-based ingredients that work together to combat odour and absorb moisture. So no harsh chemicals are needed.
Let’s break down some of the key players:
1. Baking soda neutralises odour
Baking soda is a natural deodorant key ingredient, known for neutralising odours by adjusting your skin’s pH and making it tough for bacteria to survive. Remember I said before IT CAN BE HARSH FOR SENSITIVE SKIN and cause irritation. If you have sensitive skin, look for a deodorant with a formula that has very little baking soda or no baking soda at all.
2. Arrowroot powder absorbs moisture
Next up is arrowroot powder, a fine, white powder that comes from the roots of the arrowroot plant. This ingredient is fantastic at absorbing moisture, which helps keep you feeling dry throughout the day. Unlike talc, which has had some health concerns associated with it, arrowroot is completely natural and gentle on the skin, making it a preferred choice in natural deodorants. I use it in my natural deodorant recipe (I have many variations, depending on my mood, but most of them do incorporate arrowroot powder).
3. Essential oils for fragrance and other benefits
Essential oils do double duty in natural deodorants. Not only do they provide a lovely, natural fragrance, but they also offer antibacterial properties that help keep odour-causing bacteria in check. Lavender, tea tree, peppermint, all lovely oils that bring their own unique benefits to the table (from calming irritated skin to giving you that fresh scent without the synthetic perfumes). I love lavender and use it all the time in my natural deodorants.
4. Coconut oil is moisturising and antimicrobial
Coconut oil is another wonderful ingredient that many natural deodorants use. Known for its antimicrobial properties because of its high lauric acid content, it helps fight odour-causing bacteria naturally. It is also deeply moisturising, so it keeps your skin soft and smooth.
5. Shea butter and other skin-soothing ingredients
In addition to the heavy hitters mentioned above, many natural deodorants also include skin-soothing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and beeswax although since turning vegan I prefer vegan waxes like candelilla wax. Either way, all these ingredients help to nourish and protect the skin under your arms, which is delicate. Shea butter, for example, has a “luxurious” feel that makes the natural deodorant feel smooth rather than sticky or greasy. I always use it in my formulations (non-refined shea butter).
How these ingredients work together
So, how does this all come together?
Each ingredient plays its part to create a great, natural effect. Baking soda and essential oils tackle the bacteria that cause odour, while arrowroot powder keeps you dry by absorbing excess moisture. Coconut oil and shea butter ensure your skin stays moisturised and happy. These are just some of the basics—many natural deodorants use other great ingredients too but you can get the idea.
The most important thing is to remember that the beauty of natural deodorants is that they manage to keep you fresh and dry without disrupting your body’s natural processes. Instead of blocking sweat glands (which is what antiperspirants do), they allow your body to function as it should, all while making sure you still feel confident and odour-free throughout the day.
But, will it work?! (Spoiler: yes, it will!)
Let’s be real—you’re asking yourself, “Will natural deodorants actually work for me?”
It’s totally normal to be a bit skeptical, especially if you’ve been using conventional products for years. After all, they block sweat and mask oduor with heavy-duty ingredients.
But here’s the thing: natural deodorants do work, just in a different way.
Natural deodorants don’t prevent sweating (because as we’ve discussed before, sweating is a natural and NECESSARY function of your body). What they do is focus on NEUTRALISING the bacteria that causes body odour and absorbing excess moisture with gentle, natural ingredients.
Some people may experience a transition period (often referred to as a “detox”) when they first make the switch, where they might sweat more or notice a stronger odour for a few weeks (more on that below). This is just your body RECALIBRATING after years of blocked sweat glands. And, yes, it is temporary.
Once your body adjusts, many people find they actually sweat less and smell better because their natural deodorant supports their body’s natural processes rather than suppressing them. And, with consistent use, you’ll likely find that you stay just as fresh as you did with your old antiperspirant, but without all the synthetic chemicals.
So, yes, it will work. It just might take a bit of patience and commitment during the transition period. Again, more on that below.
Let’s look at potential health improvements…
Here’s where it gets interesting.
Switching to natural deodorants gives your body a break from potentially harmful chemicals and supporting its natural processes.
Below, some of the health benefits you might experience when you make the switch.
1. Reduced exposure to harmful chemicals
One of the biggest advantages of natural deodorants is the significant reduction in your exposure to potentially harmful substances like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health concerns, from hormone disruption to skin irritation.
GAIN: By switching to natural alternatives, you’re cutting out these questionable ingredients from your daily routine. Over time, this can have long-term benefits for your overall health, particularly in reducing the risk of hormone-related issues and chronic skin conditions.
2. Improved lymphatic function
Your lymphatic system is a key player in your body’s immune function and waste removal. Some research suggests that aluminium in traditional antiperspirants could interfere with lymphatic function, particularly in the underarm area where lymph nodes are concentrated. This disruption may affect your body’s natural detoxification process.
GAIN: By switching to natural deodorants, you’re allowing your lymphatic system to work as it should, without interference. Over time, this can support overall health and contribute to a stronger immune system.
3. Better skin health
Yes, our underarms deserve some love, and natural deodorants are simply great for that. Many contain skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera, which help nourish and protect delicate skin.
GAIN: By switching to natural deodorants, you’re giving your underarms the care they need. Over time, this can result in softer, smoother skin with less irritation, leading to noticeably healthier underarms.
4. Support for natural detoxification
While it’s not a direct health benefit, one benefit of natural deodorants is that they let your body sweat naturally, an important part of detoxification. Trace amounts of metals and other chemicals can be present in your sweat, so by avoiding antiperspirants that block this process, you’re supporting your body’s natural detox pathways.
GAIN: Over time, this can lead to a more efficient inner eco-system, and many people notice they sweat less or smell better once their body adjusts.
Making the switch to natural deodorants is more than just a swap in your beauty routine—it’s a step towards better health, smoother skin, and a more naturally balanced body. I have been using natural deodorants (that I make myself) for many years now. I will NEVER go back to commercial non-natural deodorants.
Making the switch: what to expect
So, you’ve decided to make the leap to natural deodorants after reading all of the above… Great choice!
But… let’s keep it real: the transition might not be entirely smooth sailing at first.
Your body has likely become accustomed to the effects of antiperspirants and non-natural deodorants, which means you could go through a bit of an adjustment period as your system detoxifies from years of blocking sweat.
(Patience is key!!)
Be patient with yourself. When you stop using antiperspirants, your body may go into overdrive, leading to increased sweating or even a bit of extra odour.
This is completely normal and usually lasts for just a few weeks while your body recalibrates. Basically, your system is flushing out all the build-up from years of using products that prevented you from sweating naturally.
I went through this process. I didn’t even know it was temporary!
Below, what to expect and how to make the switch as easy as possible.
My tips for a smooth transition
To make the switch a bit more manageable, here are a few tips that I think will help you:
1. Choosing your timing wisely
It might be a good idea to start your transition during a less hectic period—like over a weekend, during a holiday, or any time when you don’t have a jam-packed schedule.
This way, you can give your body the time it needs to ADJUST without the added pressure of social or professional commitments. Think about it!
2. Detoxing your underarms
Consider using a natural clay mask on your underarms. Clay is fantastic at drawing out impurities, and using it can help speed up the detox process.
Apply the mask a few times a week during your transition to help clear out any residual toxins and bacteria.
3. Staying hydrated
Water is your best friend during this time. Staying well-hydrated supports your body’s natural detoxification processes, helping to flush out toxins and keep your skin in good condition. Plus, it can help reduce the intensity of any odour as your body adjusts.
4. Sticking with it!!
Consistency is key when switching to natural deodorants. Give your body the time it needs to adapt to the new product. It might take a few weeks, but once your body has adjusted, you’ll likely find that you’re sweating less and that any initial odour issues have improved.
5. Embrace the process…
Remember, this transition is a step towards a healthier, more natural lifestyle. It might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but hang in there!
After the adjustment period, many people find that their natural deodorant works just as well—if not better—than their old antiperspirant. I love all of the ones I’ve made (as long as I don’t add baking soda, which doesn’t agree with my armpits). I can’t even begin to describe how lovely it feels to use deodorants with natural fragrances from essential oils. The combination of butters, powders, and oils creates such a soft, soothing texture—it’s honestly more than just a product for me, it’s an experience.
(Plus, obviously, having the peace of mind knowing that you’re no longer exposing your body to potentially harmful chemicals every day).
So, go ahead and make the switch, knowing that a little patience now will pay off with healthier skin and a happier body in the long run.
Choosing the Right Natural Deodorant
How do you choose the natural deodorant that’s right for you?
Here are some key factors to keep in mind when picking your perfect natural deodorant:
1. Ingredients: keep it simple
When scanning the label, look for products that keep it simple—think plant-based oils, butters, essential oils, etc. I find that the fewer the ingredients, the better, especially if you have sensitive skin. Steer clear of anything with synthetic additives or preservatives that might defeat the purpose of going natural in the first place.
2. Scent or no scent?
Scent is a big factor when choosing a deodorant, and natural ones often use essential oils for fragrance. Whether you prefer floral, citrus, or herbal, there’s something for everyone. Not sure which to pick? Try them all! You use deodorant daily, so you’ll get through them eventually. First the lavender one, then the one with rosemary, after, the one that’s a blend of oils… You’ll discover your favourites over time, trust me.
If you’re sensitive to fragrances or just prefer a more neutral scent, go for the unscented options.
3. Stick, cream, or spray?
Natural deodorants come in a few different forms, and it’s all about finding what works best for you.
– Sticks are super convenient and similar to traditional deodorants, so they’re a good starting point.
– Creams offer more control over application
– Sprays should be quick and easy, especially if you’re on the go (this is the one format I’ve never tried)
As you can see, it will probably take a bit of experimenting to find your favourite one. Again, patience is key…
Finding your perfect match is a matter of trial and error
Don’t be discouraged if the first one you try isn’t quite right. It might take a bit of trial and error to find your perfect match, but once you do, it’ll be well worth the effort.
Want to make your own?
I have written many articles on DIY deodorants.
If you’re in the mood of getting lost down that rabbit hole, be my guest! Here’s an article on a DIY natural deodorant that works, here you’ll find a bunch of recipes that use arrowroot powder as an ingredient (one of my favourite ingredients for natural deodorants!), perfect if you want to avoid baking soda. Here, DIY deodorants that use shea butter. Love arrowroot powder or want to learn more about it? Here’s an article that discusses how to use it INSTEAD of baking soda (not good for sensitive skin). And, finally, my guide on deodorant powders, if you’re feeling a little on the nerdy side today 🙂
Final thoughts
I’ve been making my own skincare for years. Everything I’ve made and used has been transformative.
The same goes for my natural deodorants. I could not imagine using anything else.
When it comes to these natural products, it’s not so much about what you’re putting on your skin, but what you’re leaving out.
From smoother, healthier skin to ditching those questionable chemicals, the benefits of switching to a natural deodorant are clear.
Yes, it takes a little patience, but the long-term rewards? Totally worth it.
When you switch to natural deodorants, you’re prioritising your health and the environment, letting your body do its thing naturally while still feeling fresh and confident.
If you’re on the fence, take this as your sign. Once you go through your detox period and start to enjoy your natural deodorant, you will wonder why you didn’t switch sooner.
Give it a try—you’ve got nothing to lose and so much to gain!
