What’s all the stink about? Natural deodorants are a thing, and for more reasons than one. Yes, they are typically more expensive. But all natural ingredients means no toxins, parabens, or cancer causing ingredients are being put on your precious skin. For me, there is no debate that health conscious products are worth spending a little extra for. In my search for a natural deodorant, I came across some excellent reviews for a brand called Primal Pit Paste, and decided to purchase the sample pack of 6 trial size deos for $20. Shipping was free (directly via the company’s website) so I figured this was a deal I couldn’t pass up.
I was satisfied, overall, with the performance of these deodorants… some of the fragrances more than others. They all smelled divine fresh out of the jar, especially the “Orange Creamsicle” “Jacked up Jasmine” and “Coconut Lime.” I found that once mixed with the body’s natural scent, however, some of the rogue fragrances (such as “Rough and Rogue”) faired better than others. More about that later.
I loved the idea of deodorant in a jar, and I’m obsessed with their bright, bold packaging. It looks so cool and retro. I did however, find fault in the application. Granted, I did purchase the sample pack so I’m not sure if the full size jars come with something you can use to apply them to your armpits. (There is also a stick version which allows you to apply them like typical deodorants, which I have yet to try.) I found myself having to awkwardly apply using my fingertips but trying to avoid getting it under my fingernails. Easier said than done.
The consistency of the pastes is thick, but smooth rather than gritty. This could be the reason why the skin in the pits of my arm started to darken; product buildup. Initially I freaked out and stopped using it because I was convinced that I was having some type of adverse reaction. When I realized it was the product building up (my skin started to feel thick, coarse, and coated) I began exfoliating my armpits and scrubbing a bit harder when I showered. This– along with using less product– helped minimize the discoloration.
So to keep it funky (pun intended), my honest opinion about this deodorant is simple: I like it. Did it keep me dry and smelling delicious all day? No. My tried and trusted Secret deodorant didn’t either (well, not smelling delicious 24/7 at least). None that I have come across have done so. With this product, I noticed that as the day wore on, the scent heightened as it mixed with my natural scent. It’s hard to explain what that means exactly. But I did find myself running for the shower by the end of the night a few times because the smell of body odor and lemongrass or lavender was too overwhelming!
I know there’s stigma that I need to get past, in thinking that a natural deodorant can’t perform the same way that a “regular” one can, and I am definitely trying to break that mindset. I’m not 100 percent certain that this is the deodorant I can use and feel confident about doing so. Despite how much I loved the fragrances and the all natural ingredients, I noticed I was still on a quest to find something… lighter. Something that would combat odor and help keep sweating to a minimum while not coating my pits. Something I would feel confident in wearing any season, any temperature, and any day. I’d love to use this deodorant in cooler months like Fall and Winter, when using heavier products wouldn’t necessarily be an issue, but I am still looking for something a bit lighter for the warmer months. Especially now that summer is a hop and a skip away. I can say that until I do, this natural deodorant has already replaced my chemical loaded one!
Have a natural deodorant you would recommend? Do share!
UPDATE: I am currently testing a “lighter” natural deodorant that also works wonderfully. I’m also happy to report that the darkening of my armpits has completely diminished. They are actually in the best condition I’ve seen them since before even starting this experiment. I’ll be sharing details soon!
Schmidt’s deodorant stick works the best for me in the Ylang Ylang scent. Stick deodorants seem to stay fresher longer on me. I also alternate with Meow Meow Tweet brand and that is like the Pit Paste in a jar, but whipped and lighter feeling. The grapefruit scent works the best for me and is baking soda-free. The tea tree has baking soda and I suppose works better. The lavender has baking soda and I have that one but it oddly did not stay fresh on me. Also, the smell was a bit hippy-ish. Finally, Birch Box has a brand called Arrow Protect and I tried it once at a friend’s place when I forgot my Schmidt’s. It protected me until the next day. I plan to oder my own stick for the Summer. Please do share the new one that you are trying out!
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Why would you do this to me? So many choices, which way is a girl to go?! Lol. Would you recommend the Schmidt’s or Arrow Protect to start with? I’ve been trying a roll on called Crystal Essence (I believe?). I love the fragrance and it is definitely lighter… sadly, it doesn’t last as long in the protection department and I’m wondering if it’s because it is a roll on. I’m still testing a few factors so we shall see!