If you've been thinking about making the switch to an all-natural deodorant, you'll find there’s awesome reasons to do it. Before you commit, though, you’re probably wondering: does natural deodorant work?

Rebalancing, Not Removing

From organic blemish treatment to aromatherapy, you may already be familiar to natural products in your wellness routine. If you've struggled to find an effective natural deodorant, you may want to upgrade to a formula with probiotics. Yes, active probiotics. Your sweat doesn't actually produce the smell we associate with body odor. When the sweat exits your pores, it meets the bacteria that resides in your underarm area. These germs feed on the sweat, which creates the pungent odor (hi, BO) you may notice after the gym or during a long, hot commute.

Most deodorant formulas keep you from sweating by killing off the bacteria, which impacts your skin's natural environment. When you apply a probiotic deodorant, it actually helps your skin regain the healthy bacteria that usage of traditional deodorants and antiperspirants may have disrupted. Introducing good bacteria decreases the levels of malodorous bacteria, so you'll naturally notice less of a smell (bye, BO) with all natural deodorant.

Reasons To Go Natural

Why use natural deodorant? Unlike traditional deodorants and antiperspirants, natural deodorants are free of aluminum, which has been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer and dementia in clinical research. A 2009 study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research associated an rise in cancer cases affecting the upper outer quadrant of the breast with the use of antiperspirants and deodorants. Some research has found aluminum in the brain lesions that occur in individuals who have Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

Because antiperspirants block pores to prevent the release of sweat, many women experience irritation and breakouts. Some people even develop an itchy red rash known as contact dermatitis. If you've struggled with allergic reactions to standard antiperspirants and deodorants, a natural formula could be the right route for you!

As discussed above, antiperspirants eliminate bacteria from the armpit region. Over time, however, this can encourage the growth of more significant germ species and potentially create even worse body odor.

Choosing the Right Formula

In addition to probiotics, a good natural deodorant includes an ingredient to help keep you dry as well as smelling fresh. Just a bit of baking soda is an excellent alternative to pore-clogging aluminum and other chemical irritants. If you're sensitive to artificial fragrance, look for a scent-free product. Essential oils are often used to add a subtle scent. Your skin may also benefit from the addition of natural moisturizers like coconut oil!

Are you wondering how to use natural deodorant? Most products work exactly like their drugstore counterparts. Simply swipe the stick across your armpits and expect to stay dry for a full 24 hours. Although you may need to reapply, most users find that natural deodorant is as effective as the alternatives.