If you’ve been thinking about swapping your regular deodorant for a natural one, first of all – brilliant choice! But I know from experience (and from chatting with many of you) that it can feel a little daunting. So I thought I’d write this blog to guide you through the transition, explain what to expect, and hopefully encourage you to stick with it. Because once you do, you’ll feel the difference!
Why switch in the first place?
Conventional deodorants and antiperspirants often contain ingredients like aluminium salts, which block your sweat glands and stop you from sweating altogether. While this might sound like a good thing, sweating is actually one of your body’s natural detox processes. Blocking it can disrupt your skin’s microbiome and even lead to more odour over time. Not to mention the artificial fragrances and preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin.
Natural deodorants, like the ones I make, don’t stop you from sweating and that’s the point. Instead, they work in harmony with your body. They use plant-based powders, clays, and gentle essential oils to help absorb moisture, neutralise bacteria (which is what causes the smell), and soothe the delicate skin under your arms.
The transition period: what actually happens?
Let’s talk honestly for a minute: when you first stop using antiperspirants, your body will likely go through a bit of a detox phase. Because your pores are no longer blocked, you might sweat more than usual for a couple of weeks. This can be surprising at first, but it’s totally normal!
You may also notice a change in the scent of your sweat. That’s because your body is adjusting, and the bacterial balance on your skin is recalibrating. After this phase, things settle down and your body finds a new balance—many people find they actually sweat less once their body adjusts, and odour becomes much more manageable.
Natural ingredients that make a difference
So what makes Bare Natural deodorants different? I use ingredients like:
- Arrowroot powder and zinc oxide: These help absorb moisture and neutralise odour naturally.
- Shea butter and coconut oil: Rich, nourishing ingredients that soothe and protect the skin.
- Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and neroli: These don’t just smell lovely, they have natural antibacterial properties too.
This gentle but effective blend lets your body do what it needs to do while keeping you feeling fresh and confident.
Tips to help you transition smoothly
- Give it time: Stick with it for 2-4 weeks to allow your body to adjust.
- Reapply if needed: It’s fine to top up during the day in the early weeks.
- Gently exfoliate: Once or twice a week can help remove buildup and support the detox.
One important tip!
For best results, always apply your deodorant to clean, dry armpits. If you apply it to damp skin (especially after a shower), it won’t absorb as well and might not work as effectively. I sometimes do a bit of a chicken dance while I wait for mine to dry properly – whatever works, right?
Stick with it – it’s worth it
The transition period might feel a bit awkward, but it’s short-lived. And the long-term benefits of switching to a natural deodorant far outweigh the temporary adjustment. Once you get through the initial phase, you’ll likely notice less irritation, fewer breakouts, and a much better relationship with your body.
If you’d like to know more about the specific ingredients I use and why, you can read my other blog about my natural deodorants here!
Thanks so much for reading! I really hope this helps you feel more prepared (and excited!) for the switch. As always, I’m just a message away if you have any questions or want a bit of encouragement. Be sure to follow Bare Natural onInstagramandFacebookto stay updated on my latest creations and updates. Until next time! ☺️🫧
Dinah x
