I started using natural deodorant consistently three years ago (it doesn’t feel like it’s been that long ago!). At first, I was super hesitant on making the switch mainly because I was afraid that I would stink up a storm. After a lot of trial and error, I landed on Nubian Heritage, and it became my first all natural deodorant that actually worked for me.
Before I started my natural deodorant journey, I had no idea the amount of chemicals that are found in aluminum-based deodorant. It wasn’t until my mom kept harping to me about the dangers of them that I started to do my own research. There are obviously mixed reviews and opinions on whether the aluminum in products is dangerous. My opinion is that it doesn’t hurt to do without, and I haven’t looked back since I made the switch.
Advice on Making the Switch
1. Start in the winter months.
I feel like this goes without saying, but you tend to sweat more during the hotter months of the year. Aluminum-based deodorants are antiperspirants, which means that they actually stop you from sweating. So when you’re making the switch, it can be quite an odd feeling to sweat, and you may feel a little anxious about it during the process. It’s natural to sweat and just because you sweat doesn’t mean that you have a body odor too.
2. Allow time to do an underarm detox
When you make the switch to all natural deodorant, it can take a little bit of time for your body to adjust to the change. Think of it like this: antiperspirants block your sweat glands so when you make the switch, you’re unblocking your sweat glands that have been plugged up for a long time. Initially, you may sweat more in the first few weeks of switching over. To help with the underarm detox process, you can make your own armpit mask or use a product like Megababe Happy Pits to help with the transition.
3. It’s okay if you’re feeling anxious
Did I mention how odd it is to actually feel yourself sweat? After you make the switch to aluminum free deodorant, your body naturally overcompensates for the change, and you may find yourself sweating more than you normally do. This can cause a bit of anxiety and worry thinking that you stink even more than you actually do. That’s okay to feel that way. I was so anxious and worried that I would stink up a whole room when I switched over. I would run home after class and jump in the shower because I was so nervous about the funk. Over time, it gives better, and your anxiety goes down once you find a product that works for you.
My Favorite All Natural Deodorants
Kopari Coconut Deodorant – $14
This vegan, plant-based deodorant is by far my number one favorite all natural deodorant. I’ve been using this one consistently for probably over two years now, and it’s the one that I consistently go back to whenever I need a refill. The coconut oil in the product is a natural anti-bacterial powerhouse that helps prevent odor-causing bacteria to collect in your underarms. It comes in 5 different scents (including a fragrance-free option for people with sensitive skin). The only downfall of the Kopari Coconut deodorant is the fact that because it is made of coconut oil, it’s hard to travel with. The coconut oil base melts pretty easily in warmer temperatures so just something to be aware of.
Nubian Heritage Deodorant – $9
If you’re looking for a great aluminum-free deodorant that you can travel safely with, then take a look at one of my old favorites’ deodorant brands, Nubian Heritage. The one that I currently have in my travel bag is the Honey Black Seed 24 Hour deodorant, which leaves you not only smelling good but also moisturized too. They have 7 different scents to choose from that prevents you from stinking in different ways. I will say that all of the scents I’ve gotten from Nubian Heritage give off a very earthy/natural scent. Maybe even a little woodsy scent. I personally don’t mind the smell as it keeps me smelling clean all day.
Play Pits Deodorant – $12.99
Because we love to support POC-owned businesses over at UM, I wanted to share with you a black owned deodorant company called Play Pits. Started by a mother and son duo, Play Pits is an all natural deodorant company that is perfect for both kids and adults. After I switched over to more natural products, I really wanted to get Nci also on board, so I ended up getting both the King and Queen scents for the both of us to try. Nci is very much a happy camper when it comes to the King deodorant. I personally am a little mixed in my review. As my Queen deodorant came a little bumpy so it wasn’t comfortable to apply. But the scent is amazing, and it does work to keep you smelling nice all day. I think I might’ve just gotten a bad batch as Nci didn’t have that problem with his.
