As you scan the plethora of natural deodorants on store shelves, deciding which one is best for you can be daunting. Not every type of deodorant or ingredient is equally effective, and some keep body odor at bay better than others. If you are planning to switch from a conventional deodorant to one that is free of synthetic chemicals that may be linked to adverse health conditions, research all of the options before making a purchase.
Buy Some Baking Soda
Baking soda is a proven natural odor eliminator. This is true not only for its ability to tame stinky refrigerator scents, but also for its effectiveness against armpit odor. To make your own baking soda deodorant, add a small amount of water to one teaspoon of baking soda until the powder dissolves. Then simply use your fingers to apply the mixture to your armpits. Pay attention to how your body reacts throughout the day. If you notice strong body odor, use more baking soda.
Reach for Rubbing Alcohol
There is a reason doctors use rubbing alcohol to cleanse wounds and the skin around them. The natural astringent kills bacteria that causes infections -- and smelly armpits. To reap the rewards of a natural rubbing alcohol deodorant, pour some rubbing alcohol on a cottonball and swipe the cottonball on your armpits. Use caution when reapplying throughout the day, as alcohol can dry out the skin if used too often.
Opt for Essential Oils
In addition to their natural healing properties, essential oils can neutralize odors and inhibit foul-smelling bacteria from forming under your arms. Make your own two-ingredient essential oil deodorant spray by mixing distilled water and tea tree, peppermint or lavender oil. Fill an empty spray bottle with about 4 ounces of water and 20 drops of essential oil. Shake the mixture, spray your armpit area and add more oil if needed.
Go for Store-Bought
If you would rather head to the store to buy a commercially made natural deodorant, there are plenty to choose from. However, it can be tricky to tell which products are truly natural, as some that are marketed as "natural" still contain chemicals such as propylenes, sulfates and parabens. Your best bet might be an aluminum-free natural deodorant stick or roll-on.
- Breast Cancer Fund: Chemicals in Cosmetics
- Journal of Investigative Dermatology: Sodium Bicarbonate: An Excellent Deodorant
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities, 2008
- Dr. Weil: Natural Treatment of Body Odor
- Fox News: 5 Essential Oils That Heal
- Essential Oils for Beginners: The Guide to Get Started with Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Althea Press
- Good Housekeeping: The 9 Best Natural Deodorants