If you’ve been doing your research over the years into potentially harmful ingredients in your home, food and personal care products, chances are you’ve come across the term “phthalates”. But what exactly are they, and why should they be avoided?

Why avoid conventional deodorants?

Aluminium is one of the most recognised nasties commonly found in antiperspirants because aluminium is what plugs up your pores. This helps minimise body odour by inhibiting the bacteria that feed on sweat, while the aluminium also helps by preventing you from sweating as much. Deodorants may help you to smell fresh by killing the bacteria that causes sweat to stink, but antiperspirants stymie the natural process. We sweat to release waste and toxins from the body — clogged pores can’t do that. It’s a fairly strong argument against using antiperspirants, especially those containing toxic chemicals. 

Aluminium has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer, while other questionable ingredients like triclosan, propylene glycol, parabens and phthalates pop up on the ingredient deck of many conventional deodorants. No one wants to stink unnecessarily, and deodorants and antiperspirants allow us to feel and smell fresh. But if they are laden with toxic chemicals and metals, is that easy fix really worth it? 

What ingredients are found in natural deodorants?

Natural deodorants are different because they call on all-natural ingredients with odour-absorbing or antibacterial properties, such as coconut oil, tea tree oil, arrowroot powder, and corn starch. Instead of harsh chemical fragrances, most natural deodorants also opt for subtler scents from essential oils. 

Where can I find a great natural deodorant?

One brand that is a major player on the natural deodorant scene is Kaia Naturals, who created the first-ever bamboo charcoal deodorant stick, the Takesumi Detox. Takesumi (activated bamboo charcoal) is a time-honoured Japanese secret for odour control and detoxification and yep, it works. Charcoal acts like a magnet to pull toxins from sweat glands and neutralises underarm bacteria to eliminate odour, and their beautiful formula also comes with a range of natural scents. 

Ethique’s Minimalist Solid Deodorant is another formula that will help you stay fresh and confident all day long, without aluminium. Instead, naturally wonderful ingredients keep sweat and smell away like magnesium hydroxide, zinc oxide and bamboo. Magnesium hydroxide prevents the growth and proliferation of bacteria by altering the pH of your skin – but not enough to cause irritation. This beauty is also unscented for super sensitive skin, with jojoba and sweet almond oil for silky smooth underarms.

If you’re new to natural deodorant, you may go through a period of ‘detox’, which if you persevere with will deliver a great end result. A two to four-week transition period can be expected when changing from antiperspirant to natural deodorant, during which time underarm odour and moisture levels will normalise as your body adjusts. Studies show that antiperspirant users experience an increase in odorous bacteria in the underarm area when they stop using antiperspirant, as well as a little additional moisture, which is temporary. Fight on through and your body will thank you for it! 

Locally crafted body care brand, Ultrella offers some gorgeous natural deodorants in pouches as well as Calm Pits, a detox mask for armpits. If you are new to natural deodorant or have been using antiperspirant for years, it’s the perfect way to ease into using a natural formula. It cleans, detoxifies and brings armpit bacteria back into balance by using ingredients like pink clay to draw out impurities and botanicals like rose, kawakawa and hemp to soothe, support and strengthen sensitive skin.

Want to browse more natural deodorants?

Here at Clean Beauty Collective, we’ve searched the world to bring you only the best deodorant products made with the cleanest ingredients.