7 Tips for Switching to Natural Deodorant

Switching to natural deodorant is a bit easier said than done. We share 7 tips you need to know if you're making the move to natural deodorants.

What to Expect When Switching to Natural Deodorant

If you've been using standard deodorants or antiperspirants for awhile, your skin will need some time to adjust to the new product. Also, keep in mind that natural deodorants contain different ingredients that can affect the results or performance of the product.

1. Natural deodorants are harder to apply

Many natural deodorants feel like a hard, gritty ChapStick when applied. This is due to the combination of shea butter, baking soda and wax.

To help with application, natural deodorant instructions typically recommend holding the product against your underarms for a few moments before swiping on to allow your body heat to soften the solution. While pressing the deodorant against your skin does help with the application — it's not ideal when rushed in the morning.

If you dislike that gritty texture, opt for a cream deodorant that doesn’t contain wax.

2. Some natural deodorants leave a residue

Natural deodorants with beeswax can leave a residue on clothes and skin — even after showering. So to avoid residue on your skin and shirts, choose a natural deodorant that doesn’t contain beeswax.

Schmidt’s natural deodorant uses a candelilla wax, which is thinner and smoother in consistency compared to beeswax, which is thicker and stickier.

3. Many natural deodorants melt in the heat

Coconut oil is a common base of natural deodorants. But because coconut oil has a melting point of 77°F, many natural deodorants melt much faster than their non-natural counterparts.

Avoid storing your natural deodorant in hot climates (like the car) to maintain a solid form.

4. Many natural brands lack strong scents

The ingredient "fragrance" is found in many cosmetic products and often implies the product contains chemicals. So it makes sense that many natural deodorants are unscented. However, if you sweat heavily or struggle with B.O., scent is essential to shield. Opt for a scented natural deodorant if body odor is a bigger concern.

5. Baking soda can irritate the skin

Baking soda is one of the most effective natural deodorizers out there. But if you have sensitive skin, the formula can cause redness and rashes. When using natural deodorants on sensitive skin, make sure to apply a light layer and gradually experiment with more over time to prevent potential discomfort.

6. Consider doing an armpit detox beforehand

Armpit detoxing can improve the effectiveness of natural deodorant and ease with your transition to the new product. This deep cleansing process removes buildup of deodorant and antiperspirant ingredients trapped in your pits over time, resulting in a rebalance of natural bacteria.

7. Wear a sweat proof undershirt while transitioning

For those who sweat mildly, the transition to natural deodorant may be relatively smooth. But if you're a heavy sweater, you need an extra layer to block armpit sweat and pit stains. That's where sweat proof undershirts can help.

Thompson Tee's patented sweat proof undershirts for men and women are guaranteed to prevent armpit sweat from permeating your clothing and showing through.

As you switch to natural deodorant, it's highly likely that you'll start sweating more, because your body is adjusting to the lack of aluminum found in standard antiperspirants. Wearing a sweat proof Thompson Tee is sure to come in handy as you transition to natural deodorant. Thompson Tees are also ideal for daily wear and around-the-clock sweat protection.