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Deodorant 101: Why Go Natural?

Pretty African American woman putting on deodorant

We all want to smell great, and what better way to do it then prevent yourself from sweating in the first place! But how does regular deodorant make this happen? Is it really the best choice for our bodies? It’s important to start making informed choices by learning more about the products you use.

How do deodorants work?

Aluminium ions in regular deodorants affect the cells of your skin, causing them to swell, squeezing the ducts until they are closed. Sweat glands are therefore clogged and prevent sweat from escaping. Natural deodorants however, are free from chemicals and artificial fragrances, making them suitable for people with allergies or sensitive skin. Instead of clogging the pores, they work by fighting bacteria responsible for bad odour with natural essential oils, for example lemongrass, lavender, rosemary and citrus oils.

Benefits of natural deodorants

Natural deodorants do not contain Aluminium, which is a neurotoxin and responsible for blocking sweat glands. Since they are free from aluminum, it prevents that waxy build up that regular deodorants so often leave behind (and is a pain to fully scrub off in the shower!).  Aluminium is also responsible for the yellowish stains on the armpit area of clothes which is almost impossible to remove.

Today, Natural deodorants have made a huge improvement with their effectiveness. Natural deodorants allow your skin to breath and they avoid other harmful ingredients found in ordinary deodorants, such as Triclosan and Propylene Glycol.

Back in history, the technique that was used in Asia was the application of mineral salts on the armpit. The technique killed bacteria and prevented body odour. This technique has since been adopted to form modern natural deodorants. Today, natural deodorants have gained popularity and are made using the same mineral salts but with modern technologies.

Types of natural deodorants

The first type is the deodorant stick, which is made by mixing active ingredients with silicons, oils and waxes, and then molded to form a stick. They are used to reduce wetness and prevent body odor in the arm pits.

The second type is the deodorant paste, which comes in the form of a paste, cream or gel. Deodorant paste is often chemical free. They prevent odor instantly without inhibiting sweat glands, and are blended with pure essential oils.

Lastly, there is the natural crystal deodorant that stops odor by simply inhibiting bacteria growth. These crystals are made up of naturally occurring mineral salts that work by adjusting the natural PH of the skin.

Popular brands of natural deodorants

i. PiperWai crème

PiperWai crème deodorant is made from 100% natural ingredients. The medicinal-grade product is made of charcoal from hardwood. Charcoal has a large surface area and therefore can absorb moisture that is more than a thousand times its weight. Besides, it has no harmful effects on the body; in fact it can help gastrointestinal problems when ingested.

ii. Jason

Jason Lavender Deodorant Stick is clinically tested. It’s zinc ricinoleate, baking soda and corn starch ingredients neutralize odor. Jason uses grapefruit seed extract that has antimicrobial properties to fight bacteria that causes odor. The Lavender extract, Shea Butter and Vitamin E ingredients not only sooth your underarms, but also leave the skin soft and nourished.

iii. Lavanila Healthy Deodorant

Lavanila Healthy Deodorant provides a superior odor protection with 100% natural ingredients. This freshly scented deodorant has soothing essential oils which blends with strong beta glucan technology and strong anti-oxidants to condition your armpits. Lavanila Healthy Deodorant is clinically tested and recommended by Dermatologists. The deodorant is gentle to your skin since it has no harsh chemicals like; Aluminium, Paraben or Propylene Glycol.

Shop for natural deodorants at Cartageous.com!