Switching to a natural deodorant is something everyone should do, but a lot of people find they just don’t work or find that they feel daunted by it. The problem is they don’t give them a chance, and after a few days of smelling slightly *ahem* unpleasant, they give up and go back to their old antiperspirant which is laden when aluminium and other nasty chemicals.
Time is the secret to switching to a natural deodorant. You need to give your body time to adjust, and while it sucks, it does mean that you’ll have to put up with 1-2 weeks of smelling *ahem* questionable, while your body switches over. I’m a huge fan of Nuud these days, but I do also love Ben & Anna’s natural deodorants. And no, I don’t smell of body odor when I use a natural deodorant – but I can smell when I do smell of body odor if I leave it too long between Nuud applications.
I promise that with a little bit of patience and experimentation, you’ll be able to find a natural deodorant that works for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the transition:
Step 1: Gradually Transition
If you’re used to using an antiperspirant, your body may be accustomed to blocking sweat. Gradually switching to a natural deodorant can help your body adjust to sweating naturally again. Try using your regular deodorant and natural deodorant alternately for a week or two before making the full switch. This will allow your body to gradually adjust to the natural deodorant.
Step 2: Experiment with Different Types
Not all natural deodorants are created equal. Some people find that baking soda-based deodorants work well for them, while others prefer deodorants made with coconut oil or other natural ingredients. It’s important to experiment with different types of natural deodorants until you find one that works for you.
Try different scents and formulas to see which one you prefer. I love the Nuud deodorant because you only have to apply it every 2-3 days and it works so well, even during/after an intense workout. Nuud works by preventing odour by neutralizing bacteria with micro silver, which is the key ingredient. It has no scent, and goes on really nicely without leaving any marks on clothing etc. However, if you like a deodorant that has a scent and is a bit more ‘normal’, I highly recommend Ben & Anna’s options (although avoid this one if you’re sensitive to sodium bicarbonate).
Step 3: Be Patient
It may take some time for your body to adjust to a natural deodorant, and you may experience some odor and sweat during the transition period. Stick with it, and give your body time to adjust. Everyone’s body is different, so it may take longer for some people to adjust to a natural deodorant than others.
Step 4: Keep in mind that natural deodorant may not have the same antiperspirant properties as traditional deodorant
Natural deodorants may not have the same antiperspirant properties as traditional deodorants, so you may sweat more than usual. However, this is completely normal and nothing to be worried about. Sweating is a natural process that helps to regulate body temperature and remove toxins from the body.
Step 5: Do a patch test
Before using any product on your skin, it’s always best to do a patch test, but especially if you have sensitive skin. This helps to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction to the product. Simply apply a small amount of the deodorant to the inside of your elbow and wait for 24 hours to see if there is any redness, itching, or other symptoms.
Making the switch is worth the patience
Switching to a natural deodorant may take some time, but it’s worth it in the long run. Natural deodorants are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, which can be beneficial for both your health and the environment. Remember to be patient, experiment with different types of natural deodorants, and give your body time to adjust. And as always, don’t forget to patch test before applying any product on your skin. Happy hunting!
