Deodorant is a simple concept, isn’t it? Swipe and go and you're pretty much golden! But what happens when you’re transitioning to a cleaner option? Or maybe you’re already a natural deodorant queen but aren’t aware of the best way to maximize the benefits of your deodorizing routine. Well, we’re here to help you get there with some simple tips and tricks!
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DO Choose A Truly Non-Toxic Deodorant
Why go through with the switch if your deodorant is not completely clean and safe? Make sure you do your research and choose a natural deodorant that is worth all that effort. There are some great resources available (like the Think Dirty app) that do the hard work of vetting the ingredients for you.
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DON’T Expect An Antiperspirant
Deodorant = sweat, no stink Antiperspirant = no sweat, no stink
Our bodies are meant to sweat! Sweating regulates our body temperature, potentially removes toxins from our body, AND serves as a third detox pathway after the liver and kidney.
Embrace the sweat! You are choosing to support your body's natural functions and a product that is better for both people and the planet.
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DO Apply In The Morning
If you were using antiperspirant, you might be used to a nightly application. This helps for better product absorption so your ducts are clogged and no moisture escapes through. Yikes!
Natural deodorant works on the skin’s surface. It neutralizes the odor-causing bacteria that thrive in the presence of moisture. A fresh application in the morning makes more sense, and remember that you can reapply as needed.
4. DON’T Overdo It
Swiping on half your stick is a thing of the past. This might have worked great with your old antiperspirant but moderation is key when it comes to natural deodorant.
There is no such thing as the 'right’ number of swipes. Each person will have their own number that works best for them. That number might change for someone with shaved armpits vs someone with underarm hair, for example.
5. DO Experiment With Scents
You might have heard of how perfume smells different on everyone. Something to do with body chemistry? Well, that holds true for deodorant as well. If a deodorant formula works for you but leaves a funky smell try a different scent instead of switching brands entirely. You never know what might click.
6. DON’T Ignore An Underarm Rash
An underarm detox typically looks like excessive sweat and/or smell. If you’re experiencing any type of discomfort or signs of a rash, do not chalk it up to the detox. This is your body telling you something is off. Ignoring these signs may eventually lead to bigger problems. Make sure to take care of it as soon as you notice.
7. DO Give Your Armpits Some Extra TLC
Why limit your self-care? Extend that love to your underarms to make the transition a little easier and quicker. It isn’t that different from your skincare routine - cleanse, exfoliate, and mask.
Here’s what we recommend: Cleanse with a gentle body wash followed by a gentle exfoliation – the keyword is gentle. Remember that the skin of your underarm is pretty soft and delicate! Use a mask a few days later. (Get ready for some awkward positioning. Maybe consider lying down?)
Make sure the products you use are gentle without any harsh ingredients. For example, use an exfoliator with ingredients like lactic acid. Look for masks with words like ‘clarifying’, ‘detoxing’, or ‘purifying’. You will probably find something in your face masks to repurpose!
8. DON’T Give Up
Our last and most important tip is, no matter where you are in your natural journey, do not give up. The infamous detox phase can be off-putting but a necessary evil you might need to go through. Your sweat glands are finally free to breathe! Give your body a chance to catch up. The unexpected sweat and stink episodes are just your body purging away impurities and build-up. Know that there is a safe, toxin-free deodorizing routine to look forward to!
So there you have it! Those were a few Dos and Don’ts to remember when you make ‘The Switch’. Have fun on your natural journey.