This post provides a comprehensive overview of plastic free deodorants, including how to choose the right one for you and your lifestyle needs.
There are thousands of personal care products in different fragrances, colors, and formulations. But how often do we pause to consider the impact of our purchase choices on our planet? Have you ever tossed an empty deodorant tube and felt a tiny twinge of regret?
When it comes to the products we purchase, selecting plastic free deodorant can have a bigger impact than you might think on keeping plastic waste out of the environment. Every time we choose a plastic free or more eco-friendly option, we're giving a nod to the planet, saying, "I've got your back."
Making the jump from your tried and true deodorant to a more natural option can seem daunting with all of the different types to choose from. Going plastic free goes beyond just making better environmental choices. It's also about making better choices for your health. Plastic free deodorants come with the dual benefit of being made with natural ingredients that help to support your body's natural detoxification process.
When selecting a plastic free deodorant, it's not just about smelling good; it's about feeling good inside and out. Let's unravel the environmental and health benefits of switching to a plastic free deodorant and how to pick the perfect one for you. Nothing beats trying something new and loving it, right?
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What Exactly Is Plastic Free Deodorant?
As the name suggests, plastic-free deodorant, is a personal hygiene product designed to combat body odor without the use of plastic in its packaging. It's not merely about the contents inside, but the casing it comes in. Most often, these deodorants are housed in eco-friendly containers such as cardboard, glass, or metal. Plastic free deodorant may also come as bars, creams, or even in refillable containers.
Why Make the Switch To Natural, Plastic Free Deodorant?
Imagine a world where our oceans aren’t choked with plastic and where landfills aren't brimming with discarded items that take centuries to decompose. That world seems a tad brighter, doesn't it?
Each time we choose a product, we cast a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. Much of the plastic waste we generate is created by items that we discard after only using them for a brief time. Deodorants, being daily essentials, contribute significantly to this cyclical waste.
By transitioning to a plastic free deodorant, you aren't just selecting a product that keeps you fresh. You're making a conscious choice for the environment, signaling to manufacturers the kind of future you want to invest in.
Why Choose Plastic Free Products?
Combats Plastic Pollution: Every year, approximately 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in our oceans. This doesn’t just mar the beauty of our beaches; it disrupts marine ecosystems and enters our food chain. By opting for plastic free personal care products, we significantly cut down on this staggering number.
Reduces Your Carbon Footprint: Plastic production releases vast amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. By reducing the demand for plastic-packaged products, we decrease the emissions contributing to global warming.
Make A Healthier Choice For Yourself: Plastic-free products often embrace a more comprehensive eco-friendly ethos. They may use natural ingredients, shunning harmful chemicals.
Popular Natural, Plastic Free Deodorants For 2023
Deodorant Sticks
- Resembling the traditional stick deodorants, these are housed in cardboard push-up tubes.
- Pros: Familiar application method, fully compostable packaging, typically offers good coverage.
- Cons: Cardboard might get soggy in humid conditions; may not last as long as other options.
Deodorant Bars
- These are akin to soap bars but for your underarms! They’re usually made with natural ingredients and require a simple rub under the arms.
- Pros: Zero-waste, compact, great for travel, and often packed with skin-loving ingredients.
- Cons: Takes a bit to get used to; may melt in extremely hot conditions.
Deodorant Pastes
- Deodorant pastes have a creamy consistency, and typically come in glass or metal jars. Application typically involves taking a pea-sized amount and rubbing it onto the underarms using your fingertips.
- Pros: Highly effective due to direct application, allows for controlled use, often made with natural and skin-nourishing ingredients.
- Cons: Some might find jar application less convenient or slightly messy; and can leave residues on fingertips.
Deodorants Formulated For Sensitive Skin
- Description: Crafted with minimal, hypoallergenic ingredients, these deodorants cater to those with skin that gets easily irritated.
- Pros: Gentle on the skin, avoids common irritants like baking soda, often enriched with soothing ingredients.
- Cons: Might require reapplication more frequently; might not cater to heavy perspiration.
How to Choose the Right Plastic Free Deodorant for You
Evaluate The Ingredients and Their Effectiveness
Ingredients To Look For In Plastic Free Deodorant
- Baking Soda- Acts as an odor neutralizer by creating an alkaline environment where bacteria (that causes body odor) cannot thrive. Some people might be sensitive to baking soda, resulting in skin irritation. Always patch-test or consider a baking soda-free formula if you have sensitive skin.
- Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch- Natural moisture absorbers, they wick away sweat, keeping you dry without blocking the pores.
- Magnesium Hydroxide- Neutralizes odor and is an excellent alternative for those sensitive to baking soda.
- Coconut Oil- Has antibacterial properties that can help reduce odor-causing bacteria. It also moisturizes and soothes the skin.
- Shea Butter- Acts as a skin conditioner and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin.
- Essential Oils (e.g., Tea Tree, Lavender, Eucalyptus)- Many essential oils are antimicrobial, combatting the bacteria responsible for body odor. They also provide a natural fragrance to deodorants.
- Activated Charcoal- Highly absorbent, activated charcoal can help draw out toxins and absorb sweat and odor.
- Probiotics- Introducing beneficial bacteria can help keep odor-causing bacteria in check.
- Aloe Vera- Soothes and hydrates the skin, making it perfect for sensitive areas like the underarms.
Take You Skin’s Specific Needs Into Consideration
Consider The Unique Needs Of You Lifestyle
Whether you're breaking a sweat at the gym or exploring cobblestone streets in a quaint remote village, your deodorant should complement, not complicate your lifestyle. No matter where your day takes you, your plastic free deodorant should leave you feeling confident.
Athlete or Fitness Enthusiast- Opt for high-performance formulas. These variants usually contain natural antibacterials that fight odor-causing bacteria even during the most grueling exercises. A promise of extended protection isn’t just a label claim – it’s a commitment to keep you fresh from start to finish line. We like PĀPR's Yoga Flow Plastic Free Deodorant for any activity where we know we'll be in tight quarters and will be breaking a sweat.
Traveler- The compactness of solid bars or sticks is perfect for traveling. Designed with no risk of spillage, they are perfect for on-the-go freshness. Plus, their often minimalist design makes them a traveler's delight, ensuring you leave behind nothing but footprints. Ethique's mini deodorant bars are the perfect size for packing in evening the smallest carry-on.
Office Professional- Look for deodorants that offer day-long protection. Mild fragrances can be a bonus, providing subtle freshness without overpowering the workspace. The last thing we want to do is subject our coworkers to headache inducing fragrances all day long, so we like to opt for a high-performance, fragrance-free deodorant like FREEDOM's unscented deodorant when we have a stressful day in the office.
Minimalist- Deodorant balms or pastes, which can sometimes double up as body balms, are a great fit. Brands that offer refill options also align with the minimalist approach to reducing waste. Peach is a newer option on the scene. Peach's Coconut Jasmine aluminum-free deodorant comes with a plastic free forever, refillable deodorant case.
Student- Look for affordable yet effective plastic free deodorants that can transition from day to night seamlessly. NaturePro's deodorants are super effective and come at a really affordable price point.
Assess The Brand's Commitment To Sustainability
- Look for deodorants packaged in materials like cardboard, metal, or glass. These materials are either recyclable or compostable, ensuring they don't end up as waste.
- Seek out brands that go the extra mile. Companies that offer refill options, for instance, speak to their commitment to reducing waste. Some innovative companies also offer send-back programs, ensuring the product lifecycle is circular.
- Recognize that an eco-friendly deodorant's slightly higher upfront cost is often an investment in quality ingredients and sustainable practices. Moreover, these products often last longer, ensuring that your per-use expense is competitive, if not better.
- Dig deeper into a brand's ethos. Are their sustainability practices deeply rooted in their mission, or are they just skimming the surface?
- Seek out brands that engage in community upliftment, responsible sourcing, and waste-reducing initiatives. When you back such brands, you’re not just buying a product, you’re supporting a vision.
Tips For Switching to Plastic Free Deodorant
- Be patient. This phase, characterized by increased sweat and odor, may last up to a month. But like the fleeting discomfort of a long run, the outcome is worth the effort. During this period, wash regularly and wear breathable fabrics made from natural fibers like cotton or silk to ease the transition.
- Experiment. Before committing to a full-size product, opt for samples or travel sizes. This way, you can test different formulations, identifying which is best suited to your unique chemistry.
- Plan Ahead. Keep a travel-sized version in your bag for touch-ups, ensuring you stay fresh throughout the day.
- Listen To Your Skin. You may need to try a couple different options before finding a deodorant that works best for you. The trick is to find a balance between effective odor protection and skin comfort.
How to Use Plastic Free Deodorant Effectively
- Embrace natural sweating. These deodorants allow your pores to breathe and release toxins. During the first few weeks, expect increased perspiration as your body adjusts.
- Use just enough. One or two swipes under clean, dry armpits should suffice. For pastes or creams, aim for a pea-sized amount per armpit, ensuring you spread it evenly.
- Start by showering with antibacterial soap to combat odor-causing bacteria. Applying your natural deodorant on clean, dry skin will yield the best results.
- Stay patient and committed. This phase, where built-up toxins are released, can last up to a month. During this period, consider wearing breathable natural fibers like cotton to help manage increased perspiration.
- Listen to your body's needs. Some might find a midday touch-up necessary to maintain freshness.
- Always store your deodorant in a cool, dry place. If the consistency changes, use temperature to adjust it. For instance, if it's too soft, briefly refrigerate; if too hard, warm it with your fingers before application.
This blog post was all about plastic free deodorant.
In our bustling world of countless personal care options, it's essential to remember the ripple effect of our choices. Plastic-free deodorant isn't just about smelling fresh; it's a nod to the Earth and a commitment to your health. With each eco-friendly choice we make, we chip away at the mountain of plastic pollution and cast our vote for a cleaner, healthier world.
Making the switch to plastic free deodorant might seem overwhelming with so many options out there, but with a little trial and error you'll be happy you made the switch. Beyond the environmental benefits, these deodorants pack a punch with natural ingredients that support our body's natural detoxification process.
So, are you ready to make a change that's good for you and the planet? Share this post with others and spread the word – because every choice, no matter how small, creates ripples of impact.
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