How to choose a natural deodorant that really works?

Everyone has their preferences and scents, textures, or types cannot be discussed. At J'adore Bio, we thought it was time to share some tips and guide you on your quest towards your new favorite deodorant for healthy pits.

Deodorant vs antiperspirants

A little reminder never hurts. Simply put, deodorants neutralize body odors while antiperspirants block your sweating glands (most double as deodorants too). Sweating IS healthy. Sweat is a natural process to help your body cool down and as we all have different ratios of bacteria on our skin, our body odor differs from one another. Nonetheless, it is understandable that one desires to control it depending on the situation.

What to avoid?

Aluminum chlorohydrate, zirconium, triclosan, parabens, propylene glycol, petrochemical derivatives, artificial fragrances, phthalates, sodium-lauryl sulfate, sodium-laureth sulfate, talc, irritating preservatives like phenoxyethanol, silicones, PPG-15 stearyl ether, steareth-2 and polymers such as polyisobutene.
Not to be confused: aluminum chlorohydrate and potassium alum. While both contain aluminum (in fewer amount for potassium alum), potassium alum has supposedly larger molecules which make it more difficult to be absorbed through human skin. That being said, if you're actively seeking to reduce the aluminum build-up in the body, then it is best to avoid both of them.

Ingredients to look for

Absorbing powders such as baking soda or alternatives such as clay, cornstarch, and arrowroot powder, nourishing and healing plant oils, beeswax, softening shea butter, cocoa butter, and essential oils to reduce unpleasant odors.
A quick note on essential oils: some people are sensitive to it (including pregnant women and children) so there are formulas free from essential oils.

Here are some popular essential oils and scents :

- lemon, grapefruit, orange, bergamot, lemongrass

- peppermint, cypress, rosemary, sage, tea tree

- lavender, rose, patchouli, frankincense, palmarosa, cinnamon

A popular scent tends to be mint/peppermint, not just for its freshness factor but also for its purifying properties. One option to keep in mind would be the Clémence et Vivien mint and sage deodorant. 

Baking soda or no baking soda?

One of the most commonly used ingredients in natural deodorants is baking soda. Baking soda has the ability to absorb sweat and eradicate odor-causing bacteria. However, some people do experience skin irritations with it. If you happen to have this issue, do not worry, many B.S-free options are now available. 

Cream, stick or roll-on?

This is once again, up to your personal preference. Roll-ons are travel-friendly and easy to carry everywhere, whereas cream pots tend to have better and more efficient lasting power. In an effort to reduce our carbon print, we are particularly fond of the zero-waste packaging from We Love The Planet.

Still looking for something that is a a hybrid between deodorant and antiperspirants?

We might have something up our sleeves. It's the You & Oil 'Sweating' blend composed of palmarosa oil, lavender oil, clary sage oil, and geranium oil. This clever combination eliminates body odor and tackles excess sweating.

We hope this little guide debunked some preconceived ideas on natural deodorants and will make you want to explore the amazing options available.