Summer is the season when most of us think twice about deodorant. If you've been wanting to switch to a natural option but are worried about how it'll go on a hot summers day, this guide is for you. Here's what actually happens when you switch, and how to make it easy.
Deodorant vs antiperspirant: what's the difference?
They're often used interchangeably, but they work very differently:
- Antiperspirants use aluminium salts to temporarily plug your sweat ducts so you sweat less.
- Deodorants don't stop sweat. They work on odour, using ingredients that neutralise smells or make your skin less friendly to odour-causing bacteria.
Natural deodorants fall into the second camp. You'll still sweat, which is your body's natural way of cooling down, but you shouldn't smell.
Why do underarms smell in the first place?
Fresh sweat is actually almost odourless. The smell comes from bacteria living on your skin breaking down compounds in sweat.
Interestingly, the research has found that antiperspirant use can actually shift the underarm microbiome, and in some people this favours more odour-causing bacteria. This helps explain why switching to natural deodorants takes a little patience.
What happens when you switch?
Many people notice they sweat more, or smell a bit stronger, in the first couple of weeks. This is because:
- Your sweat glands are no longer being blocked, so you notice your normal sweat levels again.
- Your skin's bacterial community or "microbiome" is rebalancing.
For most people, this settles within 2 to 4 weeks.
Tips for a smooth switch
- Start in a cooler week if you can, rather than in the middle of a heatwave or a big week at work.
- Apply to clean, dry skin. Natural deodorants work best on freshly washed underarms.
- Reapply on hot or active days. Pop a roll-on in your bag for the beach or after sport.
- Choose natural fibres like cotton and linen, which breathe better and hold less odour and bacteria than synthetics.
- Watch for sensitivity. Some natural deodorants contain bicarbonate soda, which works really well but can irritate sensitive skin. If you have a skin condition like eczema or you get redness when testing, look for a bicarb-free formula, such as one using magnesium like this one.
- Give it at least a month before deciding whether it works for you.
What to look for in a natural deodorant
- Aluminium-free, with a short ingredient list you can understand
- Odour-neutralising ingredients like bicarb soda, magnesium, plant extracts or essential oils
- Soothing oils and butters to care for skin, especially after shaving
- A formula that suits your skin.
Our most popular options are the Noosa Basics Organic Roll On Deodorants, made by a small Australian maker with organic ingredients. The Rose & Frankincense roll-on has a soft floral scent, while the Organic Roll On Deodorant with Magnesium adds magnesium for odour control. Explore our full Natural Deodorants collection.
Make it part of a low-tox summer routine
If you're simplifying your underarm routine, it's a natural time to look at your other daily essentials too. Read our guide to natural sunscreen in New Zealand, or browse our Body & Skin range.
This article is general information and not a substitute for personalised advice. If you have a skin condition, or experience persistent irritation, rash or very heavy sweating, check with your health practitioner.
