Source: Billie on Unsplash
After using the same deodorant brand since middle school, something changed.
It was a regular day when I felt a sudden piercing pain and discovered a huge lump lodged in my armpit. I hopped on Google immediately to read that a lump under the arm could indicate breast cancer. I panicked at first — but researching only creates anxiety, and luckily for me, it improved a week later.
As quickly as the lump disappeared, it came back many times throughout the year. I continued to search for answers to this mysterious symptom. To my surprise, I read that aluminum is a common ingredient found in the deodorant we use every day. If you’re wondering why aluminum could be an issue, let's discuss how it works and why I use aluminum-free deodorant today.
What is aluminum? Well, we know it is one of the most utilized metals on Earth and is found in the earth’s crust. This element is used in antiperspirants to prevent sweating and odor. It creates a gel-like substance that plugs sweat ducts in the skin and prevents sweat from reaching the surface. It has not yet been proven to be a problem for the skin, but as someone who has a long history of skin sensitivities, the deodorant that I used for years suddenly caused a recurrence of skin irritation resulting in painful lumps. I finally went to see my doctor and she advised that I stop using deodorant for a week to see if the symptoms go away.
During that time, I had to manage my sweat and odor by washing my armpits with mild soap as much as I could. I also rubbed a wedge of lemon under my arm once a day. There was an immediate improvement in my skin as the pain went away after a few days and the swelling of the lump decreased. The only problem I had was figuring out how to live without the deodorant that has saved me from the unavoidable odor and sweat I experienced every day.
Through trial and error, here are my three favorite natural deodorants that are formulated for sensitive skin and strong enough to keep body odor away.
1. Weleda Wild Rose 24-hour Deodorant spray has been a summer staple for years. Not only does it smell amazing, its formula includes pure essential oils and ingredients that maintain the skin’s natural detoxification process. It’s also free from aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic preservatives. Additionally, it doesn’t irritate the skin and is extremely reliable for hot and sweaty days.
2. Necessaire's The Deodorant is my favorite brand to use during the cold months. The formula includes silica, zinc, and kaolin clay to absorb wetness which is great for gym days and for avoiding the dreaded sweat stain. Unlike other powdery deodorants, the formula blends into the skin with proper use and doesn't leave a chalky residue on your clothes. I love the fragrance-free option but they also have eucalyptus and sandalwood scents that smell amazing.
3. Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant is a new favorite for its unique 2-in-1 skincare/hygiene approach. The formula includes AHAs that help to reduce odor-causing bacteria — treating body odor at the source. It also brightens and exfoliates the skin, prevents ingrown hairs, and is cruelty-free Vegan.
Fortunately, natural deodorant has grown in popularity as the beauty industry makes room for sensitive skin alternatives. This has been helpful in my journey to find a deodorant that works best for me. Safe ingredients like arrowroot and magnesium help to absorb sweat and neutralize odor. Other ingredients such as essential oils and flower extracts are also safer for the skin versus products that contain artificial fragrances. These natural alternatives don’t prevent sweat like antiperspirants but sweating helps to regulate the body’s temperature. Then you have the lymph nodes that are located in the armpit which are responsible for filtering out toxins. I learned that my lymphatic system was affected by an allergic reaction to the deodorant that I used for years.
Since I made the switch to aluminum-free deodorants four years ago, I haven’t experienced any armpit pain or lumps. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my skin and my body.