Natural Deodorant Stick - Unscented - 70g

Deodorant is a daily essential for most people, but mainstream deodorants often contain harmful chemicals. These chemicals are applied directly to your skin and under your arms near your lymphatic system and mammary glands. Many deodorants come in aerosol form, which may also be inhaled, posing additional risks to your health and the environment. Over a lifetime of daily use, the cumulative exposure to these harmful chemicals is significant and can be avoided when people switch to natural deodorants.

Natural deodorants are not antiperspirants. While antiperspirants use aluminum-based compounds and other chemicals to block sweat glands and prevent perspiration, natural deodorants do not contain these ingredients. Instead, they focus on neutralizing odor by using natural antibacterials like essential oils, magnesium salts, bicarb, and plant-based powders to absorb moisture and reduce bacteria that cause odor. This allows your skin to breathe and sweat naturally, which is important for regulating body temperature while also allowing your body to purge toxins in sweat.

High bicarb levels in many natural deodorants can irritate skin, upsetting its pH balance and causing discomfort and itching. This imbalance may lead to mild chemical burns and skin discoloration over time. Moreover, as bicarb fully dissociates upon contact with sweat, its ability to control odor diminishes, necessitating frequent reapplication. Deodorants with lower bicarb content may offer less irritation but also weaker odor control, while those relying solely on essential oils may lack effectiveness. Opting for magnesium-based deodorants provides the most reliable solution for effective and skin-friendly odor control.

Choosing the best natural deodorant depends on several factors, including skin sensitivity, ingredient preferences, and performance needs. Here are some key properties to look for:

1. Magnesium Deodorant: Unlike baking soda, magnesium-based deodorants effectively neutralize odor without causing irritation or rashes. Magnesium hydroxide balances the pH of your skin gently and is less soluble, providing prolonged protection.
2. Water-Free Formulations: These deodorants do not contain water, reducing the need for preservatives and increasing product safety and longevity.
3. Avoid Aerosol Types: Aerosol deodorants can pose an inhalation risk due to potentially harmful ingredients. Opt for stick, roll-on, or paste formats instead.
4. Non-Comedogenic Ingredients: Ensure the deodorant contains ingredients that won't clog pores, allowing your skin to breathe and sweat naturally without causing breakouts.
5. Scent Options: Avoid deodorants containing artificial fragrances and parfum listed in their ingredients. Opt for deodorants scented with natural essential oils, or choose unscented options for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
6. Consistency in Temperature Variations: High-quality natural deodorant pastes are formulated to maintain a consistent texture, avoiding being too hard in winter or too soft in summer.
7. Eco-Friendly Packaging: Look for deodorants packaged in plastic-free, recyclable, or compostable materials to reduce environmental impact.
8. Refillable Options: While refillable options are better than most, they are not as eco-friendly as options like sticks in paper tubes that are recyclable or compostable. The initial purchase of a refillable deodorant involves a plastic container, which has a higher risk of not being recycled and ending up in landfill. Additionally, some customers may just purchase another plastic container instead of refilling.

By considering these properties, you can find a natural deodorant that suits your needs, promotes your health, and is kind to the planet.

Yes, kids, tweens, and teens can use Totem Eco deodorant. You might need to keep an eye on younger kids to make sure they're not using too much though and applying once a day is more than enough for most adults.

Kids, tweens and teens typically need deodorant around the onset of puberty, which starts between ages 8-13 for girls and 9-14 for boys. As a general rule of thumb, once the undeniable physical changes begin to occur (growth spurts, body hair, breast development, deepening voice) is when you may notice body odor. This is a great time to introduce the benefits of choosing safer and healthier skincare to your child. Some deodorants claim to be appropriate for kids yet contain potentially hazardous chemicals. Opt for a stick or paste type to avoid inhalation risks associated with aerosol types and preservatives found in liquid roll-ons. Natural deodorants are a safe choice.