For many of us, starting our day by applying some deodorant is just as important as getting dresses and brushing our teeth. We want to feel good about ourselves as we go about our usual routine, without worrying about whether we are smelling fresh and clean or not. But it’s also been no secret in recent years that many commercial deodorants are not quite what they’re made out to be. From aluminium to harsh toxic chemicals, the ingredients we are putting onto (and therefore into!) our bodies on a daily basis are definitely worth paying attention to. It’s important to remember though, that alternatives are available – we just might need to dig a little deeper.

Deodorant vs Antiperspirant

We often throw these terms around interchangeably, but there is a significant difference between the function of a deodorant and an antiperspirant. A deodorant works by using an antimicrobial to kill the odour causing bacteria on the skin, therefore preventing any unpleasant smell when you sweat – this is because sweat itself is actually odourless, its when it mixes with bacteria that an odour is actually formed. On the other hand, an antiperspirant works by using aluminium salts to simply stop your sweat glands from producing sweat. What makes this concerning is that sweating is an important and necessary bodily function, as it serves to cool down our body when it notices it is overheating, as well as to release toxins from within the body – to block this function altogether works against, not in favour of our body. Now does it make sense why we were always told us sweating when experiencing that dreaded fever is ‘our body getting rid of all the bad stuff’? – Yep, its actually true!

So whilst it may seem the obvious choice is to opt for a deodorant to let our sweat glands breathe without any odour, often the conventional deodorants we find in most supermarkets and drugstores are a combination of deodorant and antiperspirant – meaning they contain both antimicrobials, but also contain aluminium to reduce the production of sweat. Which is where natural deodorants come into play.

Natural Deodorants Keep You Smelling Fresh (without the added toxins!)

Natural deodorants do not work by clogging your sweat glands, but they do contain disinfecting and antibacterial properties by including ingredients like coconut oil which works effectively to neutralise any body odour, without the use of aluminium. You might be wondering – what does using a deodorant containing aluminium, phthalates, and parabens actually do to the body? Unfortunately, studies have found these chemicals and synthetic fragrances have been linked to serious health conditions like Alzheimer’s, hormonal disorders and even cancer. Whilst we can never be sure whether there is a direct link, we prefer to keep things simple with naturally sourced, non-toxic ingredients – just to be safe.

A perfect example is the Vemel Soothing Deodorant Balm – with Coconut Oil and all its wonderful antibacterial properties as well as nourishing the skin, and perspiration absorbing Colloidal Oats and Arrowroot, its the perfect blend for all day odour protection (not a drop of aluminium in sight!).

It’s A Sensitive Skin Saviour!

Did you know deodorants are the number one cause of fragrance related allergic rashes?

When most commercial deodorants are filled with synthetic fragrance and deodorant is something applied everyday by most people, its no surprise. Which is why a natural deodorant which uses naturally derived source of scent can avoid irritation and sensitivity under the arms. The Vemel Soothing Deodorant Balm mentioned earlier has a delicate scent of Rosemary, which is included in the form of Rosemary Antioxidant, no harsh chemicals or essential oils. And just like the skin on your face, the skin under your arm should be nourished and not stripped, which is why finding a product that keeps the area fresh but also hydrated is key. 

No More Plastic Waste

Most commercial deodorants are packaged in plastic containers with a plastic ball attached end of it – and given that most people are using deodorant on a daily basis, you can imagine the amount of unnecessary waste being created. In fact, its been found that the deodorant industry produces over 15 million pounds of plastic waste each year. Which is why when looking for a natural deodorant, look for one that prioritises its impact on our environment too. 

Our Vemel Soothing Deodorant Balm comes packaged in our reusable and fully recyclable glass jars, simply take the organic bamboo spatula provided and apply a fingertip amount onto the underarm area and rub in. Because smelling and feeling good shouldn’t cost the earth.

Ultimately, finding a product that works harmoniously with your body makes all the difference. Rather than blocking your body as it attempts to protect and preserve you, work with your body, and see yourself flourish.