It’s common for people to experience worse-than-normal odor when transitioning to naturals. There’s no scientific research that confirms exactly why, but there are many hypotheses. One is that the armpit’s natural microbiome is disrupted by conventional underarm products, so it needs time to readjust. Another is that the first weeks after wearing deodorant are a major detox period, especially for regular antiperspirant users. With all the buzz around naturals, there’s been some warranted backlash. A handful of beauty bloggers and editors have tried to unsuccessfully transition because they weren’t able to find a brand or formula that works for them. The reality is that finding a natural deodorant is like finding a signature scent—there many different formulas, formats, and scents, and you have to find one that works for you. Apply the mask when you get into the shower, go about your business, and then rinse it off as the last step. It’s OK if it doesn’t completely dry out—the mask is still working. If you’re feeling dry or sensitive afterward, go bare, or apply moisturizer or deodorant primer and skip anything with a fragrance until your skin settles down. Think you’re ready to make the switch? Here are mbg’s fitness editors’ favorite, sweat-tested natural deodorants.
