Some people believe that antiperspirants and deodorants containing aluminium can contribute to the risk of cancer, others believe it is all a hoax. Regardless of all this, antiperspirants stop you sweating, something that you are naturally designed to do. So antiperspirants are a no-no for me. Something that I’d like to point out about deodorants is that you can’t expect them to have the same effect as an antiperspirant. Deodorants allow you to sweat, but contain ingredients that stop that sweat starting to smell. If you wish to switch to a more natural product, you’ll need to adjust your expectations, and be prepared to re-apply the product on very hot days, or after exercise.
Here are 5 of my favourite natural deodorants:
Tom’s of Maine unscented deodorant stick
There’s a faint smell of coriander about this product, I love the smell, very clean. It also contains lichen and aloe vera. I’ve found it to be effective, not too messy to use, and I can buy it in Waitrose or health food shops. Available online from Natural Collection.
Avalon Organics peppermint roll-on deodorant
This is my favourite for hot, sticky days. The peppermint has a lovely cooling effect on the armpits, just what you want. Available from health food shops, and online from Think Natural.
PitRok natural crystal deodorant
This interesting deodorant is a natural crystal that stops bacteria from multiplying in the areas that it is applied, and so stops smells. The push-up crystal is completely fragrance free and it seems to last forever. Available from Sainsburys and health food shops, or online direct from PitRok.
PitRok citrus fragranced spray deodorant
This non-aerosol spray deodorant smells a little on the manly side for me, but very effective and a firm favourite of my son who seems to spend most of his time getting sweaty by playing sport, riding his bicycle and generally rushing around. Made of the same natural crystals as the push-up solid version. Available from Sainsburys, health food shops and online direct from PitRok.
Bicarbonate of Soda (baking soda)
This is amazing stuff. Not only can you use it in cooking, and around the house for cleaning, it’s also a very effective, cheap and natural deodorant. All you need is a large powder or blusher brush to apply it to your pits, and Bob’s your uncle, you’ll be odour free.