8 tips to switch to an aluminum-free deodorant

Thinking of trying a natural deodorant for the first time? Before making the change, it is helpful to understand what happens when you stop using an antiperspirant and start using an aluminum-free deodorant. Here's what you need to know…

Deodorant and antiperspirant – so what’s the difference?

Antiperspirants modify the natural perspiration of the skin. In contact with moisture, aluminum salts form a gel that blocks the sweat glands and thus reduces perspiration.

Natural deodorants, on the other hand, work very differently. They do not alter perspiration, which is a natural reaction of the body to cool down. Deodorants absorb moisture and unpleasant odors. They also form a hydrophobic layer that inhibits the proliferation of odor-causing bacteria.

So, when you switch to an aluminum-free deodorant, your body has to readjust and get used to perspiration again. This is where the armpit detox phase comes in.

This process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. During this period of adaptation, you may find yourself sweating more and noticing changes in the odor of your sweat. Or maybe you are one of the lucky few who won’t notice any difference!

Tips for getting through the transition period:

Here are some helpful tips from our team to get through the adjustment period and reduce underarm sweat and odor:

1. Choose a cooler less humid time of year.

Fall, winter, and spring are all good times to switch to an aluminum-free deodorant!

2. Keep it clean.

Clean your pits at the end of the day with mild natural soap and warm water. Be sure to dry your underarms well after getting out of the shower, as excess moisture can worsen the smell.

3. Exfoliate.

The best way to exfoliate is to use a gentle washcloth or scrub 2-3 times a week. Exfoliation also helps mitigate the odor by clearing up dead skin cells.

4. Vinegar Rub.

Apply a small amount of apple cider vinegar to a cotton ball and dab your armpits to help reduce the pH of your armpits and inhibit bad bacteria causing a foul odor. Allow to air dry and follow with your aluminum-free deodorant.

5. Wear natural fibers.

Wearing natural fibers compared to synthetics can make a huge difference in the smell of your sweat! Synthetic blends do not absorb sweat as much and can in turn cause more odor-causing bacteria. Try cotton, linen, or bamboo instead.

6. Drink water.

Stay well hydrated during the adaptation period. It is important to drink enough water, especially since you may sweat more during the first few weeks.

7. Apply more than once.

If you’re going out for the day, take your aluminum-free deodorant along and reapply a couple of times throughout the day.

8. Give it time.

Give it at least a month to make sure your body has had enough time to adjust.

What about ATTITUDE zero waste deodorant?

ATTITUDE natural deodorants for men and women are aluminum-free deodorants formulated with plant and mineral-based ingredients.

Our Super Leaves™ deodorants use arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) and cornstarch to absorb wetness and odors.

While our leaves bar™ plastic-free deodorants contain moisture-absorbent white-clay.

We also offer a line of Sensitive Skin deodorants with oat extracts, to naturally protect even the most fragile skins.

Upon application, ATTITUDE natural deodorants do not obstruct natural perspiration as antiperspirants do, but create a hydrophobic barrier that inhibits the proliferation of odor-causing bacteria. The smooth texture of vegetal wax, shea butter, and coconut oil make it easy to apply and comfortable to wear all day long.

Proudly bearing the Environmental Working Group’s EWG VERIFIED™️ seal of approval, they check all the boxes: our eco-friendly deodorants are free of aluminum, parabens, triclosan, stearates, phthalates and artificial colors found in traditional deodorants and antiperspirants.

They are also vegan and comes in a revolutionary plastic-free packaging that can add up to a huge reduction in plastic use.

Discover the complete collection of ATTITUDE plastic free deodorants.