Deodorant. It's something we apply every day without much thought to it - other than to check if it actually prevents body odour and won't stain clothes. Most deodorants and antiperspirants contain a cocktail of synthetic chemicals with serious, adverse health effects. 
There are many 100% natural options available - but even from those who are using 100% natural products everywhere else, I get the same question over and again - does natural deodorant really work? I say yes. *Cue skeptical expressions*
I'm not sure what it is that makes us think natural deodorant just isn't going to be effective at killing BO. Maybe it's the advertising, all the new technology making deodorants more "effective than ever".  WHat I do know, is, natural deodorant DOES work. But before I get into the who, what and why of my favourite natural deodorants, I'm going to tell you what's in your current deodorant and why you need to ditch toxic, conventional deo's ASAP.


What you'll find in regular deodorant

Aluminium

This is the main ingredient in any antiperspirant and many deodorants. The aluminium works by plugging the sweat glands, preventing the body from doing something entirely natural and necessary to not only cool the body, but flush out toxins from the system - sweat. 
Aluminium is a neurotoxin, and has concerns with organ system toxicity. There is evidence now showing a link between aluminium and Alzheimer's disease. 
Parfum / Fragrance

Synthetic fragrance can contain any number of around 3000 ingredients, usually about a few hundred. Manufacturers are not required to disclose the ingredients in fragrance because it is considered trade secret. Many of the components of synthetic fragrance contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen. They also contain endocrine-disruptors and xenoestrogens (which mimic estrogen activity), and can cause headaches, nausea, skin irritation, dermatitis and trigger asthma.
BHT

Preservative. Allergen and and immuno-toxicity concerns. BHT is a toluene-based ingredient. There is strong evidence toluene is a human developmental toxin, is a suspected environmental toxin and known human respiratory toxin.


Parabens

Prefixed with Ethyl, Methyl, Butyl, Propyl, Benzyl these are the most widely used group of cosmetic preservatives. Mimic estrogen in the body and are endocrine (hormone) disruptors. Methylparabens have been found in breast tumours in some studies.


Steareth-100 / AKA: Polyoxyethylene, PEG-100

There are very high contamination concerns with this ingredient. 
The two notable contaminants are Ethylene Oxide, a known human carcinogen, human respiratory toxin, and organ system toxicity. The other is 1,4 Dioxane, a highly toxic substance that is "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen", known human respiratory toxin, concerns regarding organ system toxicity.

These two substances have also been shown to contaminate up to 40% of cosmetic and personal care products. As a by-product of processing, you won't find them listed on the ingredient label. The adverse health effects of these substances and their contamination of many ingredients has been known for decades. 


 
Still convinced conventional deo's are the best option?
Check out my 100% non-toxic and natural recommendations below!


Woohoo! Body Deodorant Paste / SHOP

This is my favourite deodorant for a number of reasons. 
For a start, the scent is very subtle and doesn't linger, so won't clash with any perfume or fragrance you've chosen to wear. Secondly, I've been using this for months and never had any issues with it staining clothing - including whites. Thirdly, (and most importantly) - it completely kills BO. I live in tropical North Queensland, and used it all through our hot and humid Summer with no issues whatsoever. 

It also comes with a small spatula to scoop out the product  - and the gigantic tub lasts months. 

Also don't fear the bi-carb soda aspect. According to Woohoo! the irritation commonly experienced from bicarbonate soda-containing deo's is all to do with incorrect pH balance. I'm not super-sensitive, but I do consider my skin sensitive- and I've never had a problem with this deo - even on freshly shaved skin.


Black Chicken Axilla Paste / SHOP

This is another highly popular option (actually, it's become a bit of a cult-favourite) - particularly for the hot Australian weather! 100% natural, this does contain bicarb soda, but is known to be suitable for sensitive skin. You won't miss your toxic roll-on one bit. I promise.



Erica Brooke Skincare Deodorant Creme / SHOP

Available in a number of different scents (including the feminine Wildflowers, Unisex, Unscented AND a double strength option!!), Erica Brooke is another popular choice. Neutralises odour, lasts all day (including through a workout), and is very moisturising and smooth on the skin!




Mukti Botanique Deodorant / SHOP

If you're after a spray-on with a more unisex or masculine scent, then the Mukti Botanique is a brilliant option. Certified Organic and 100% natural, and won't stain your clothes!


Schmidts Deodorant / SHOP 

Schmidts deo's are available in both a cream paste and stick formula (easy application!), and a number of different scents, including a fragrance free and sensitive skin bi-carb free option. 
There are both feminine, masculine and unisex scents available. 100% natural, effective and won't break the bank!



If you'd like further recommendations, don't hesitate to email me or leave a comment below!

Kelsey xx
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