Mainstream Deodorant Can Be The Pits

I am sure you associate organic deodorant with tree huggers. I know I did until a couple of years ago. My first deodorant from my mom was Tom’s of Maine, and when you are a tween going through puberty, good old Tom doesn’t do the trick.

I needed something strong, so I always reached for Secret (because that’s what my older, cooler sister used) and it was my go to for nearly twenty years.

It wasn’t until two years ago when I learned that deodorant has some real nasty toxic stuff in it. Our skin is our largest organ and absorbs nearly 60-70% of what we put on it. Therefore, if you hear what’s in mainstream deodorant, and realize you are literally rubbing chemicals into your bloodstream via your pits, you think twice.

Here are some chemicals that are found in mainstream deodorants:

Aluminum – it’s a potential carcinogen, which can interfere with your hormones, and can cause irritation to your organs

Parabens – these are an “estrogen disruption” and have been linked to reproductive issues

Triclosan – it’s an endocrine disruption  

Propolene Glycerol – a skin irritant containing crystalline quartz, which is a carcinogen (linked to cancer) 

Triethanolamine (TEA) & Diethanolamine (DEA) – these guys are chemicals that can seep into your skin and damage your liver and kidneys overtime

Artificial Coloring – they are made from coal tar or petroleum, which is typically contaminated with heavy metals, like lead or arsenic

Scary, right?

I’m not gonna lie, the process to find a natural deodorant that really works is not an easy one. Also, once you make the switch from regular mainstream deodorant to organic deodorant there’s a two to three week grace period where your body needs to get used to it. However, once you make the switch and find the right one for you, I guarantee you won’t go back.

Below are the top three alternatives I have tried: 

AER – I love the way this one smells (in every scent). It is a bit greasy, so has potential to leave residue on your clothing, just an FYI. It worked on me for a little while, but then I started to smell.

Soapwalla – This one comes in a pot and you have to scoop it out. I didn’t love that because it would get under my fingernails, but this one worked so well for me...for a while. After about a year, it started to burn my armpits and made them turn red. I have friends who use it and it works well for them. 

Ursa Major – Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant has been my winner. I love the scent and the clay ingredient absorbs sweat well. It’s on the higher end price wise at $18, but after a lot of trial and error I have found this one works the best for me, so it’s worth every penny and lasts for a few months. 

I am confident you will find what works best for you, but it’s all about trial and error because every body is different! Hopefully, I was able to at least narrow it down for you. I have tried several others that didn’t work at all.