We’ve had some HOT days lately in Portland, so I thought it would be a good time to talk deodorant.

Summer is my busy season for photography, so I’ve spent a lot of time outside lately. Having a deodorant that holds up on these 95+ degree days is key.

Traditional deodorants use aluminum and other chemicals to block sweat glands. They often contain hormone disruptors, carcinogens, and pesticides, which are absorbed into the bloodstream. Our underarms have lymph nodes, which help keep our immune system in check, so keeping this area free of toxins is especially important.

PiperWai was the first natural deodorant that really worked for me. The main ingredients are activated charcoal, coconut oil and essential oils. The formula is made to keep your skin free of bacteria, which is what causes that B.O. stank in the first place. So the key to this deodorant is to put it on right in the morning after a shower.

Applying it does take a bit of extra time, but it’s worth it. I add a little bit of water on my skin to help it spread easier, and wait a few minutes before getting dressed. It was weird at first to apply it with my fingers, but I got used to it.

The subtle fragrance reminds me of ginger chai, and it’s marketed as a gender-neutral scent. It’s the only deodorant that Zachary will use, and he swears it’s “life-changing.” It seriously lasts all day! Even if you sweat buckets there’s no odor — amazing!

I wanted to find a stick formula that I could keep in my purse or the car, or both, because I’m often a bit scattered. I can’t tell you how often I forget to put deodorant on in the morning! Unfortunately Piperwai’s stick formula didn’t work for me — it just crumbled into bits when applied. So I recently picked up this Schmidt’s Deodorant. It’s formulated with activated charcoal and baking soda, making it great for absorbing moisture and neutralizing odor.

I instantly fell in love with the scent, described as “reminiscent of freshly fallen rain: vaporous, mild, and wispy.” A little goes a long way, and I find it keeps me feeling dry and fresh even on the hottest days. Applying it is super easy, and although the color is a bit grey from the charcoal, it doesn’t stain my clothing.

I’m looking forward to testing more of Schmidt’s deodorant line, especially the formulas that come in a glass jar. I’m trying to get better about using less plastic, and they have a great program where you can send back your used glass jars for a credit.

If you’re considering switching to a natural deodorant, PiperWai and Schmidt’s are great options. Both are cruelty-free and vegan, made with natural ingredients, and most importantly, they actually work.

Stay cool!
xo
Allegra