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We Found the Best Natural
Deodorant for Women (so you
don’t have to)
I have vivid memories of being home from college for the holidays when my uncle first shared with our family the harmful chemicals found in aluminum-based deodorants. It was the first time I’d ever heard about it. He explained that antiperspirants block our body’s natural sweating process—and that the areas where we sweat the most are the very places we should especially avoid applying harmful chemicals.
He continued by explaining how sweating helps regulate body temperature and releases toxins that may have made their way into our system. He said it's natural for our underarms to sweat because they are a closed area of our body and that letting that natural function occur is good. He then shared that he recently transitioned to using a plant-based, all-natural deodorant.
This conversation intrigued me, but I didn't make the all-natural deodorant transition until a couple of years later. Being raised in a small town, whole food stores are nonexistent, and grocery store options are minimal. With only Walmart to choose from, my options for finding a healthy alternative were very limited. It had me wondering, where can I find the best natural deodorant for women?
I knew I didn't like the deodorant I was using, it always gave me a rash, felt heavy once I applied, like my armpits couldn’t breathe. I found myself constantly having to reapply because I was chafing and had red rashes, making it hurt to put my arm down. I even noticed my lymph nodes were swollen, giving me small round bumps, tender and hurt to touch, causing pain when I brought my arm to its normal position.
Overall, it just didn't work well for me. I was ready for a change. After hearing what my uncle said, I couldn't shake the thought away; I knew I had to get something that was natural and most beneficial for women. I knew I couldn't continue buying conventional deodorants anymore.
Before the transition, I thought, “Perhaps I can force myself to try using a gel deodorant again.” I was reminded of being a little girl and raiding my mother’s bathroom cabinets when I ran out of deodorant. She always used a gel deodorant. However, using gel deodorant made my arms stick to my sides. It was extremely uncomfortable.
I wasn’t able to exercise, which is something no kid wants to hear who has a love for sports. I quickly realized I hated gel-type deodorants even more than the regular deodorant I used. I had never tried an all-natural deodorant before, and I still had lingering memories of what my uncle said about the harmful effects of conventional deodorants.
I knew there had to be something out there that was better than what I was using. I was in search of an all-natural and plant-based deodorant for women. One that has lovely smells, so I can smell girly, too! I was on the hunt for the best natural deodorant for women, and soon after, I finally found an all-natural deodorant that worked best for me; I have never gone back. It was the best decision I have made thus far! I’m in love with this all-natural deodorant and am excited to share it with all of you. (link to deodorant here).
The year 2010 sparked an all-time rise in the demand for aluminum-free deodorant. Many were becoming increasingly aware of the potential health risks associated with aluminum exposure, causing a shift to occur and prompting many to seek natural alternatives for their underarm-related needs.
This demand continues to climb; according to The Global News Wire, “The global aluminum-free deoderant market is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 10.2% and thereby increase from a value of US$1.9 billion in 2023 to US$3.8 billion by the end of 2030. Increasing awareness of the potential health risks associated with aluminum exposure, coupled with a rising trend towards clean beauty and natural products, is propelling market expansion.”
It’s clear that natural deodorant is experiencing a resurgence, with more and more people turning to cleaner, safer alternatives for their everyday products.
Many health-conscious consumers are beginning to embark on their natural deodorant journey and reaping the benefits. Natural deodorants aid the health of your underarms by helping you absorb natural ingredients while simultaneously letting you detoxify, sweating the way you should.
These natural deodorants utilize antibacterial and antimicrobial properties to combat odor-causing microorganisms. Antibacterial properties kill bacteria while keeping you fresh and moisturized without harming underarm tissues. These properties use ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, and essential oils. Natural deodorants are gentle, protecting sensitive skin with calming and healing nutrients. It's no wonder so many are starting to switch to all-natural deodorants!
Choosing natural deodorants offers a variety of benefits, especially for those with sensitive skin and those seeking overall better health. Most are not aware of how transformative all-natural deodorants are. Their potency can promote longevity in one’s overall health. Instead of drying out your skin, they help moisturize it, helping repair and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, leaving it soft, smooth, and hydrated, which is perfect for those with dry skin types like me.
Your underarm area is the most frequently shaved area on your body. Therefore, sensitive skin types are often more prone to irritation after shaving their armpits. Natural deodorants possess soothing ingredients like aloe vera and calendula extract to help calm the skin after shaving, reducing the likelihood of post-shave bumps, rashes, or burning sensations. These ingredients also help prevent clogged pores, another common concern after shaving or waxing. Natural alternative deodorants are proven to be the best for gentle skin types!
Understanding Natural Ingredients in Deodorants
What constitutes a natural ingredient for deodorants is that they use plant derivatives to retain their natural molecular structure without any harmful chemical modification.
Here are some of the natural ingredients Bend Soap uses in their Unscented Magnesium Deodorant:
- Arrowroot
- Coconut oil
- Sustainable Palm Oil
- Beeswax
- Coca butter
- Shea butter
- Chamomile extract
- Calendula Extract
- Activated Charcoal
If you think this would be a good deodorant for you, you can follow this link. (link here). We think you will love it! Don’t forget to read the reviews our satisfied customers have left at the bottom!
Natural ingredient-based deodorants differ drastically from conventional antiperspirant deodorants. While both aim to tackle body odor, natural deodorants rely on ethically sourced ingredients, while many antiperspirants contain chemicals that may pose health risks. I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather choose a deodorant packed with nourishing, safe ingredients I can feel good about using daily.
Natural deodorants promote long-term body health by providing essential oils, nutrients, and vitamins that support your skin's natural processes. Using natural alternatives allows your sweat glands to function naturally; your body releases toxins and regulates temperature. In contrast, the aluminum-based compounds in conventional antiperspirants block this natural process, potentially interfering with your body's detoxification system.
Natural freshness refers to the clean, pure, and rejuvenating qualities of using natural ingredients in personal hygiene products derived from plants, animals, or minerals. Natural freshness helps balance the skin's health by allowing it to breathe and function. Using natural botanicals and herbs like calendula, beeswax, and chamomile will cultivate natural freshness that is healthy for your underarms, leaving them feeling clean, soft, and moisturized.
This is because these ingredients offer soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties, making this natural product a much more desirable and endearing product. Who wouldn’t want items like this? You know you are on the right track when you make choices to benefit and enhance your skin’s health. Improving your overall health is always a win; it sure was for me.
Key Benefits of Natural Ingredients for Odor Control
The key benefit of natural ingredients in odor control is that they focus on supporting the body’s natural functions and skin nourishment while still providing odor protection. They do not combat your natural detoxification process, so they aid your inner health.
Effective Odor Neutralization
Natural ingredients, like essential oils, get to the root of the issue—removing the odor without the use of harsh chemicals. With these potent essential oils, your odors will not only be neutralized but also revitalize your immune system. The axillary lymph nodes are located in the armpit and are part of the lymphatic system.
Your lymphatic system is also part of your immune system. It maintains fluid balance in your body and plays a significant role in absorbing fats and fat-soluble vitamins. It produces and releases lymphocytes and other immune cells. These cells combat bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that can enter your body. A system that has the power to absorb vitamins and protect you from sickness should be nurtured with the utmost care.
There’s no need to continue using harmful deodorant products to combat orders. It's damaging a very useful system in your body. I love using natural deodorants. My lymph nodes never swelled like they did when I used conventional deodorants. I feel nourished and rejuvenated, and my underarms are moisturized. I am also confident in the antibacterial and antimicrobial compounds, as they fight odor-causing bacteria. In fact, the microbes can’t even live.
I am always looking for products that will help my skin, including deodorant. I want something that will be absorbed into my skin and help me feel better. It’s not just about masking odors; it’s about nourishing and supporting my body with natural ingredients that harmonize with my skincare needs.
I love that essential oils make this possible because of their high concentration of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which serve as powerful agents with a wide range of benefits. Namely, strengthens my skin barrier, hydrates and soothes, kills viruses and fungi, delivering vital nutrients like zinc and iron that support my body’s overall health.
I love that all-natural deodorants use all-natural ingredients to maintain their natural molecular structure without any chemical modification. By using compounds like magnesium hydroxide and baking soda, I’m not using anything harmful to prevent odors or manage sweating.
Magnesium Hydroxide Mg(OH)2: Also known as magnesium milk, is a safe and naturally occurring compound often used as an alternative to aluminum. It is a naturally occurring compound sourced from mineral deposits; it is highly valued in natural deodorant formulations for its gentle, effective properties. Its primary purpose is to combat odor-causing bacteria on the skin surface without penetrating the dermis- the layer of skin where sweat glands, pores, and hair follicles are.
It can naturally balance moisture and maintain the skin’s pH level, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more natural and effective way to stay fresh, helping your underarm area stay dry and comfortable. Magnesium Hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) contains antacid and laxative properties, so it can counteract excess stomach acid and promote water retention in the intestines, helping to relieve constipation. Although that is a great solution for your stomach-related issues, magnesium hydroxide is also a great solution for your underarms, particularly in attracting and retaining water.
Baking soda: Like magnesium hydroxide, it is known for its natural deodorizing properties. You probably remember using baking soda in science class as a kid—it’s an excellent resource for creating chemical reactions in science experiments. But did you know that it’s also an excellent ingredient for deodorants? This is because it possesses an alkaline substance, which makes it perfect for deodorants. After all, it neutralizes the smell. Now, you don't just have these childhood memories with it in science class. You can also play with this experiment under your arms!
Baking Soda is used in various ways to address orders, including those from pet accidents, spoiled food, or bathroom smells. Because of its chemical properties, it effectively reacts with and neutralizes acidic substances, making it an ideal solution for tackling these unwanted odors. It is so good for instances like these because it acts like a molecular sponge, soaking up and neutralizing odors, which is why it is the perfect ingredient for deodorant.
Similar to magnesium hydroxide, it not only aims to address the pH level but also to moisturize. One cool aspect of it is that it acts like an exfoliant because it is mildly abrasive. It removes dead skin cells, making it great for facial washes, scrubs, masks, and, of course, deodorant! It will gently exfoliate and cleanse your underarms, removing dead skin cells from your underarms, giving you smoother and softer skin, and preventing you from getting clogged pores that lead to irritation and even ingrown hairs. I would much rather use ingredients like magnesium hydroxide and baking soda in my deodorant because aluminum-based deodorants use harmful ingredients that can potentially damage my health, irritate my skin, and overall be wholly ineffective.
Gentle on Sensitive Skin
Many suffer from sensitive skin-related issues and are in search of an antidote. Maybe you’ve had a consistent battle with eczema and can’t seem to find relief. Maybe you have naturally dry skin, and no matter what products you use, it never seems to stay moisturized. Or perhaps you have redness and irritation; no matter what you try, the discomfort never seems to subside. I have been there! You are not alone. Many have sensitive skin and are on a wild search but feel frustrated by the lack of nutritional and effective options.
Natural deodorants are free from the things that can lead to long-term damage, Like aluminum, parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and many other harmful substances that irritate skin, leading to redness, rashes, or discomfort. The key difference is that natural deodorants are free from abrasive ingredients. Natural deodorants are formulated with soothing, non-irritating elements such as shea butter, coconut oil, and palm oil. They are plant-based alternatives that nourish and hydrate the skin while controlling the odor.
The essential oils utilized in deodorants have botanical properties, such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal. They are the perfect solution to enhance your overall health and wellness because they are packed with essential vitamins and minerals your body desires. They are the best things to apply to your skin once you have shaved under your arms.
Supporting your skin’s natural health is one of the best things you can do for your body. Many are unaware of just how important it is to nurture it correctly. It has an incredible ability to absorb nutrients directly from the products we apply. Therefore, when we use skincare products rich in natural ingredients like essential oils, vitamins, and minerals, our skin can take in these nourishing compounds, allowing them to support and improve our skin's health from the inside out. It’s a total game changer you are making for your body. It was for me. Here are two that helped me:
Coconut oil: An amazing oil that is incredibly versatile for your skin. It contains natural antibacterial properties that can eliminate odor-causing bacteria in the underarm without causing irritation. It helps keep our skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy. I am obsessed with coconut oil and will continue to use it! One surprising benefit is that coconut oil can soften dark underarm skin because its properties reduce hyperpigmentation and lighten skin over time.
Aloe Vera: Like coconut oil, aloe vera also contains potent properties that aid in hyperpigmentation. Maybe you nicked yourself shaving your underarms in the past, and now you are left with a scar. Aloe vera can help lighten this skin over time. What I love about aloe vera is how smooth and hydrated it makes my skin. I love that aloe vera is packed with anti-inflammatory properties that aid any possible inflammation I could potentially have in those areas.
Free from Harmful Chemicals
The best thing about natural deodorants is that they are free from harmful chemicals in conventional antiperspirants. Choosing something that cares for my skin and respects my body’s natural processes is reassuring—no artificial fragrances, no aluminum, just simple, effective ingredients that nourish and protect. Here are the things I know I am avoiding:
- Aluminum: The ingredient most are eager to avoid, rightfully so! I stay as far away from it as I can! The great thing is that it’s utterly absent from natural deodorants, which is a huge relief! Aluminum is used to block perspiration; large amounts have been linked to health risks, including damage to organs and glands, as well as associations with breast cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and hormonal disruption. It is best to cut it out altogether. I can feel safe knowing the all-natural deodorant I use is aluminum-free!
- Phthalates: Harmful chemicals I avoid at all costs as they are used to enhance the fragrance in deodorants. The risks associated make them are not even worth trying. They mimic and disrupt your natural estrogen and testosterone, which induce neurological disorders and developmental problems in children and highly affect fertility issues. They should be avoided altogether for long-term health.
- Parabens: Like phthalates, they confuse your hormones and act like estrogen and testosterone, preventing them from functioning regularly and affecting reproductive development and birth outcomes. Even the EU (European Union) has banned parabens in 2014.
- Propylene Glycol: a petroleum-based chemical that is supposed to make your deodorant or antiperspirant softer upon application. Nevertheless, there is enough evidence to see that this harmful substance causes allergic reactions, kidney damage, and even liver damage.
- Triclosan: A chemical known to disrupt your thyroid hormone metabolism and is an endocrine disruptor. Evidence also claims those who use it typically have allergic reactions and skin irritations. Sadly, it is used in many deodorants. It is best to avoid triclosan altogether.
- Talc: Commonly found in deodorants to help prevent clumping and absorb moisture. However, evidence proves that breathing in large amounts (especially if it is near a baby’s face) leads to severe lung disease. Long-term use of talc can increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer by 30% if used in the genital area, as well as its possible contamination with asbestos.
- Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen linked to nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia. It will irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. One will need a sound ventilation system if they are using it in the shower because it will cause shortness of breath and wheezing and disrupt lung functioning.
- Artificial Fragrances: Also known to deteriorate indoor air quality and negatively affect human health. The adverse effects are vast, including cutaneous reactions and pulmonary hypersensitivity. Artificial fragrances are associated with perturbation of the endocrine-immune-neuronal axis and contribute to headaches, asthma attacks, breathing difficulties, and even cardiovascular and neurological problems.
- Benzene: Causes an umbrella of health-related issues. Exposure to benzene leads to central nervous system (CNS) depression, resulting in symptoms like dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and even loss of consciousness. In cases of acute exposure to high concentrations, will lead to cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). Long-term exposure, particularly in women, can increase the risk of anemia, a condition characterized by low red and white blood cell counts and low blood platelet levels. Since many women are already at risk for anemia, further exposure to benzene is especially concerning.
- Silicones: (Cyclopentasiloxane and Dimethicone): Can build up on the skin and trap sweat and bacteria under the surface. In other words, they clog your pores. It also contributes to pollution when it evaporates into the atmosphere, which is harmful to breathing.
There are numerous benefits as it pertains to using synthetic free deodorants. By committing to all-natural options, you’re making a proactive choice for your health. Harmful chemicals found in Conventional antipersirants will build up over time, leading you to a wide arry of health concerns.
When you opt for natural deodorants that are made with natural ingredients, like baking soda, magnesium, coconut oil, aloe vera, palm oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter, it is a total game changer for your body. By choosing these natural formulas, you support your body’s ability to function optimally and improve its health and longevity. These natural formulas will let your body sweat and detoxify naturally, which is crucial for good health.
Most do not realize that the ingredients in natural deodorants are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which will in return give you a more balanced, completion even skin tone, reducing hyperpigmination of the dark spots under your arms. These nourishing components not only revitalize your skin but also provide long-lasting care. Natural deodorants offer a sustainable or an unstable solution because you are making a choice that supports your health, wellness, and longevity when many are making choices that are deteriorating theirs.
Essential Natural Ingredients to Include in Your Deodorant
Essential Oils for Natural Fragrance
Essential oils are the cornerstone of all-natural deodorants because they possess natural compounds that smell amazing and offer incredible skincare benefits. Being rich in antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, essential oils are the perfect choice for nourishing and protecting your skin. This is the very reason I use natural deodorants. I'm pleased to know these potent properties aid my underarm health and give me the nutrients my body needs. Below are some of my favorites that I think you should try:
Lavender: Mhmmm! It has the most lovely smell! It is a great natural ingredient in deodorants to combat orders with its fantastic smell! It is known to have the most powerful antibacterial healing properties, so it can fight infection and inflammation and aid irritated skin. Moreover, it has incredible antioxidants, so if you have nicked your underarm skin while shaving, this can help heal those skin barriers.
Lemon Oil: Another great ingredient to add to your deodorant! It contains antioxidants and antibacterial and antifungal properties, and lemon oil fights odor-causing bacteria while offering astringent qualities that tighten and tone the skin. It is especially beneficial for oily skin, as it helps balance and reduce excess moisture. Rich in vitamin C, it also promotes skin regeneration, aiding in maintaining healthy, vibrant skin. I always want anything containing vitamin C on my skincare shelf because I know how good it is for my skin. Plus, I love its smell! With its refreshing, citrusy scent, you can’t go wrong with this ingredient! Lemon oil keeps you feeling clean, refreshed, and revitalized and is also a must-have in your natural deodorant!
Tea Tree Oil: another essential oil that makes for a perfect natural deodorant ingredient. This unique ingredient acts as a toner, mimics pores, and smoothes skin. Helping to heal those cuts you could have made from your razor when shaving your underarms. Tea Tree Oil combats fungi and will help keep your underarms free from rashes like razor burn.
Plant-Based Butters for Skin Conditioning
As the natural market grows, certain natural ingredients become increasingly popular. It has been shea butter and cocoa butter in the plant-based butter world. These have become very popular natural ingredients in deodorants. As much as I love essential oils and want them in my everyday products, I also love plant butter. Not only do they provide many great benefits for my skin, but they are particularly so good for sensitive areas like underarms. I will explain why:
Shea Butter: Rich in vitamin A, it helps your skin maintain that firm texture you long for. It increases your skin-cell turnover rate by stimulating collagen production, which smoothens and plumps your skin’s surface so your skin won’t sag. It is naturally high in vitamin E, mostly alpha-tocopherol (one of eight forms of vitamin E), making it the highest in the antioxidant family.
Sebum declines with age, but vitamin E helps prevent cellular damage by boosting moisture, which is vital in preserving skin hydration and elasticity. Shea butter is known for improving conditions such as eczema and treating itchy red rashes, offering gentle care for sensitive skin.
Although it does not replace sunscreen, its anti-aging properties help minimize the effects of sun exposure. It is also allergen-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies. Using it as a daily deodorant will help your skin retain moisture, making it soft, smooth, and rejuvenated while providing a healthy, supple texture.
Coca butter: What is cool about cocoa butter is that it comes from the same source as chocolate- the cacao tree- making it smell chocolatey. Who doesn’t love the smell of sweet chocolate? it provides a plethora of health benefits. Like shea butter, it also contains vitamin A, improving skin elasticity and hydration.
Containing high levels of vitamin E, cocoa butter creates a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and preventing dryness. Similar to shea butter, it treats eczema and dermatitis, easing the itching and allowing the skin to heal after flare-ups. Cocoa butter is known for its ability to improve the appearance of stretch marks, fade dark spots, and improve the appearance of scars in the underarm area.
How to Transition to Natural Deodorants
If you are considering transitioning from your conventional deodorant to an all-natural deodorant, here are some next steps you can take:
We look forward to hearing about your new experience with natural deodorants! Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.
Conclusion
Remember to be cautiously aware of your deodorant labels. High-quality natural deodorants like ours will list all ingredients on the label. Watch for vague terms like "fragrance" or "parfum" without specifying what's in it. You want to avoid these things because it does not explain what that means.
Look for clear, specific ingredients like plant oils, essential oils, and minerals. Long lists with unrecognizable ingredients that are hard to pronounce are typically red flags. Natural deodorants typically have a shorter ingredient list, as they do not contain synthetics and preservatives.
Switching to natural deodorants is a choice that will not disappoint. Not only will it enhance the health of your skin, but it will also support your overall well-being. Natural deodorants are free from harmful chemicals like aluminum, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, which can irritate the skin and disrupt hormonal balance.
Natural ingredient deodorants rely on plant-based nutrients, essential oils, and minerals that yield drastic health benefits for your skin. Ingredients like magnesium hydroxide and baking soda will control your oder without clogging pores and reduce inflammation. Choosing natural deodorants means you are choosing to let your underarms sweat naturally, allowing them to detoxify. You are taking steps to improve your health by switching to natural deodorants.
One product I highly recommend to anyone is the all-natural Unscented Magnesium Deodorant (Baking Soda Free) (link here). This has been the perfect natural deodorant for me. It is gentle and effective, providing me with the long-lasting oder protection I need without the irritants from baking soda or the pore-clogging effects of aluminum.
It is infused with nursing ingredients that your underarms are keen to, like coconut oil, shea butter, and chamomile extract. It will not only help you stay soothed but will also moisturize your skin. Plus, it comes in both a regular size and a convenient travel size for those always on the go.
Our Unscented Magnesium Deodorant (Baking Soda Free) is just one of our many rejuvenating products. We invite you to explore our entire collection, which includes a wide array of skin-related products. From nourishing lotions and soothing lip balms to exfoliating salt scrubs and luxurious bath minerals—there's something for everyone. Explore our site here! (link here)
