More and more women are consciously choosing what they put on their skin — and deodorant is an important part of that. You use it (almost) every day, often for years, and it comes into direct contact with a sensitive part of your body.
But have you ever wondered what's actually in your deodorant? For many people, that's when they switch to a natural alternative. Especially if, like me, you notice that your skin reacts sensitively to certain ingredients.
My experience: why I stopped using "regular" deodorant
For a long time, I used standard store-bought deodorant. Until my skin started to react.
Red rash, irritation, a burning sensation — especially with deodorants containing baking soda. That was when I decided to look further and investigate what was actually in it.
I wanted something that:
– Works and keeps me fresh
– Is gentle on my skin
– Contains no unnecessary additives
– Allows my body to do its natural work
That's how I started making my own deodorant — without baking soda and without unnecessary chemicals. And the difference was huge.
What is often found in regular deodorant?
Many conventional deodorants contain ingredients you'd rather avoid, especially with daily use on such a sensitive area:
Aluminum salts
These block your sweat glands to reduce sweating. Effective, but not without questions.
Parabens
Used as a preservative, but are controversial due to possible endocrine-disrupting effects.
Synthetic fragrances
Can cause skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin. Often hidden behind the word "perfume" on the ingredient list.
Alcohol
Can dry out and irritate the skin, especially after shaving.
Triclosan
An antibacterial agent that has already been banned in some countries due to concerns about resistance and hormone disruption.
Aluminum in deodorant: what's the deal exactly?
Aluminum is often used in antiperspirants to combat sweating by temporarily blocking the sweat glands. This works effectively, but also raises questions.
In recent years, there has been much discussion about a possible link between aluminum in deodorant and breast cancer, especially because deodorant is used so close to breast tissue.
Important to know:
To date, there is no convincing scientific evidence that aluminum in deodorant causes breast cancer. Research is still ongoing and the results are not conclusive.
However, many women choose to avoid it because:
– It is used close to the breast area
– It is a substance your body doesn't necessarily need
– They prefer to choose a precautionary principle
– They want to let their body perform its natural processes
So it is primarily a conscious, personal choice, not a proven medical necessity.
Why choose a deodorant without "junk"?
A natural deodorant works differently from an antiperspirant – and that's precisely the intention.
Instead of blocking sweat, it supports your body in a milder way. It neutralizes odors without disturbing your natural processes.
Benefits:
– Allows your body to sweat naturally (which is healthy)
– Less chance of skin irritation (especially without baking soda)
– No unnecessary synthetic additives
– Suitable for sensitive skin and even after shaving
– No clogged pores
– Often more environmentally friendly packaging
For many women, this simply feels better — both physically and mentally. You work with your body, not against it.
The role of baking soda (and why it doesn't work for everyone)
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is often used in natural deodorants because it effectively neutralizes odors.
But: it can also be irritating for sensitive skin.
Common complaints:
– Red rash under the armpits
– Itching and burning sensation
– Dark discoloration of the skin
– Dryness and flaking
This is because baking soda has a high pH value (alkaline) and can disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin. Your skin is naturally slightly acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), and baking soda is around pH 9.
That's why more and more people (including me) are choosing a deodorant without baking soda, but with milder ingredients such as arrowroot, magnesium hydroxide, or zinc.
What makes a good natural deodorant?
A good natural deodorant doesn't have to be complicated. Simple often works best.
Look for ingredients such as:
– Natural oils (e.g., coconut oil, shea butter) for care
– Gentle absorbers (like arrowroot or cornstarch) to absorb moisture
– Mild odor neutralizers (magnesium hydroxide, zinc)
– Essential oils for a fresh scent (optional)
– Natural wax (e.g., beeswax or candelilla wax) for texture
And above all: listen to your own skin. What works perfectly for one person doesn't automatically work for another. Also give your skin time to adjust – the transition can take 2-4 weeks.
Natural deodorants in our webshop
Do you want to switch but not make it yourself? In our webshop, you'll find two wonderful options:
Handmade natural deodorant
Our own handmade deodorant, specially developed without baking soda for sensitive skin. With natural ingredients that work without irritation.
Najel Deodorant Balm
A mild, natural deodorant balm without aluminum, parabens, or synthetic additives. Perfect for those looking for a reliable, gentle alternative.
Both options are free from unnecessary junk and suitable for daily use.
Making your own deodorant: simple and effective
Making your own deodorant might sound complicated, but it's not. With a few simple ingredients, you can make an effective deodorant that perfectly suits your skin.
The big advantage:
– You know exactly what's in it
– You can adjust it to your skin (more or less absorbent, different scent)
– You avoid ingredients that you don't react well to
– It is often cheaper in the long run
Especially if you are sensitive to baking soda or certain fragrances, this is a great solution. You have complete control.
Tips for switching to natural deodorant
The transition to natural deodorant can take some getting used to. Here are a few tips:
Give it time → your body needs 2-4 weeks to detox from aluminum
Stay consistent → don't constantly switch between natural and conventional
Exfoliate regularly → helps prevent clogged pores
Apply to clean, dry skin → works better and irritates less
Try different brands → not every natural deodorant works for everyone
Finally
The choice for a deodorant without "junk" is not a hype for many women, but a conscious step towards a healthier, more natural lifestyle.
Not because everything "chemical" is inherently bad — but because you want to stay closer to yourself and listen better to your body. Your skin deserves gentle, honest care.
Whether you choose natural, homemade, or simply milder: the most important thing is that it feels good for you. And that you know what you're putting on your skin.
Your body, your choice — but an informed choice.
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