Fall has finally arrived and because cooler temperatures are now upon us, you may be feeling more confident in making the switch to natural deodorant.
According to studies conducted by Dove, two-thirds of women (67%) said they would no longer worry about sweat if they knew they were protected against odor — and going natural ensures just that.
In addition, making the switch to natural deodorant also poses many benefits for your body. As 21Ninety has previously reported, aluminum deodorants prevent our body’s natural ability to sweat and release toxins which therefore traps those toxins in our body, potentially causing hormonal imbalances. It has even been suspected to cause breast cancer and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease.
If you’re ready to make the switch, here are six tips to keep in mind — according to board-certified dermatologist Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD.
Reach For Dove Products
If you have sensitive skin, choose an aluminum-free deodorant that does not contain sodium bicarbonate, which can be irritating for sensitive skin. Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant Spray is a great option and also contains hydrating ingredients to help protect delicate underarm skin.
Embrace The Sweat.
Understand that aluminum-free deodorants help control odor, but they do not stop sweating. Once you understand this key difference, the transition will be much easier.
Patience Is Key.
Be patient, it can take up to 4 weeks for your skin to adjust to a new deodorant. This may be due to changes in the skin’s microbiome when switching to an aluminum-free deodorant. There may be a slight initial increase in odor-causing bacteria during the first week. This change is completely expected and the slight increase in odor goes back to normal within a week or two.
Use Gentle Products During The Early Stages Of Transition
Consider using a gentle antibacterial soap in the underarms during the transition process. This may help reduce odor-causing bacteria during the transition.
Reach For A Spray
If you are nervous about going aluminum-free, consider an aluminum-free spray like Dove 0% Aluminum Spray vs. a stick, which can sometimes cause irritation to the sensitive underarm skin. A spray can also easily be reapplied during the day if needed without irritation.
Try Different Products Until You Find The Right One
If you try a product that doesn’t work for your body switch to a different scent or formula. There are so many options available, and it is not uncommon for certain scents to work better for your body chemistry.
Bonus Tip
This Body Deodorizing Supplement by It Just Works is a great product to reach for when you need a little extra reassurance that body odor won’t be a bother to you or those around you during your transition process and beyond. This product comes with 30 capsules that are to be taken for 30 days, with results that are sure to be noticed.
Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. She has lectured at national and international conferences on anti-aging strategies in skincare and wellness and participates extensively in clinical research, serving as an investigator in dozens of FDA clinical trials with an emphasis on increasing the inclusion of skin of color patients. Dr. Woolery-Lloyd has been featured as an expert in various publications including Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times.