Hey, hey, hey, it’s another…
…and today is ALL NATURAL DEODORANT PART THREE.
Wait?
When did you share PART TWO?
Or PART ONE for that matter?
In 2019.
Yeah, it’s been a minute.
I decided to bring back this topic today for two reasons: First, I think it’s certainly worth discussing deodorant again because…I stopped wearing it completely in 2020 and haven’t missed it one time (yeah, we’ll come back to that)…and second, because I would love to encourage anyone else out there who is “doing something just because they think they should instead of doing it because they need it” to maybe reconsider.
This is one of those “ponder for yourself” kind of wellness posts.
Okay, hi my name is Shay, and I shared HERE that in 2018 a friend of mine shared in great detail with me the importance of switching to a natural deodorant instead of using one filled with nasty chemicals. I did my own research and realized yeah, I should probably make the switch too.
(Who wants chemicals next to their lymph nodes and breast tissue? Not me!).
I tried many different varieties over about a year and liked them all for various reasons but landed on Native being my favorite.
Fast forward to 2020 and well, it was 2020.
We were all home. Everything was weird. Nothing was “normal” any more, and after using a charcoal deodorant to “detox” my armpits (which was gross and painful but they sure did detox), I decided to try not wearing deodorant. My armpits were freshly detoxed, and I was staying home, so…why not?
Fast forward to today, June 11, 2025, and I’ve yet to put it back on again.
I’ve gone five full years without deodorant and haven’t missed it at all.
I know, I know, I know….that’s disgusting/gross/why would you do that/etc…BUT I am a very ACTIVE girl and have not missed it.
For me, it ended up being an easy switch. I just stopped…and realized I still stayed pretty darn dry and didn’t stink. If you know me well and we’ve had this conversation in person, there is a 100% chance I’ve asked you to smell me. I have no shame…and no odor. I haven’t missed deodorant one single bit.
Okay, what’s the point?
The point is, switching to an all-natural deodorant (and then removing it entirely) was truly my first health/wellness step in the direction of “doing something because it works for me/my goals and not just because everyone else is doing it”.
And I’m thinking perhaps, there is something out there like this you might need to consider/reconsider.
Maybe it’s deodorant?
Maybe it’s taking supplements?
Maybe it’s not getting a vaccine or maybe it’s getting a vaccine?
Maybe it’s the detergent you use or the skincare products or the toothpaste?
I don’t know what it could be, but I think so often we just do things because we’re conditioned to do things instead of actively choosing things based on our bio-individuality.
Just like when I wanted us to think about our breasts and our urinary health, maybe we should just stopped going through the motions with some “other things” and instead really decide to do them because we need to do them and not just because “well, we’re supposed to do them”.
So, that’s my little wellness encouragement today 🙂 .
I have a feeling you guys are about to ask me two questions, so let me answer them here.
Question #1: Which charcoal deodorant did you use? The answer is Primal Pit Paste. This was years ago, so there might be a better option out there now, but this is the one I used.
Question #2: Do your kids use deodorant. The answer is yes, my girls all like Native, so that’s what they all wear (they like the coconut scent). Smith and Andrew tried natural deodorant for all of five minutes and are still in the camp of “regular” which is their prerogative. Clearly our family does deo three very different ways.
Alrighty, I am also sharing my personal TRAVEL BUCKET LIST today too! Make sure you see where I want to go in the future HERE!
Head to the comment section please! I’m excited to read your thoughts 🙂 .
I’ll see you tomorrow! xx
Elspeth Mizner says
I haven’t taken the plunge yet, but given you so much credit for trying it!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Carrie Martens says
You have given me much to think about today! I never even thought that I could ditch the deodorant. It’s just something I always thought I had to use. I may still use it, of course, but I am certainly going to explore this new idea. Thank you once again for making me think twice.
Libby says
Ugh! I was using Native then became allergic to it. I’ve tried most natural deodorants & nothing keeps me stink free. Had to go back to regular antiperspirant. I try not to think about it. I’m on hormones so maybe that’s the difference for me. IDK.
Jessica Tribbett says
Did you try the Native Sensitive skin? I detoxed as well back in 2020 with Charcoal but decided I needed deodorant (I was breastfeeding then so may be different now). Regular Native and other natural deodorants really irritated me but Native’s Sensitive works great for me!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
This is my mom! She quit wearing it too after reading about the chemicals in it. I swapped to Primally Pure deo late fall and wore it all winter. But once it turned warm, I had a fear that I smelled so I went back to the regular stuff. Now that I’m home, I need to try again because maybe it was all in my head?? I’m very pro-natural deo and I want it to work so badly for me! Thanks for sharing this topic–more women need to be aware!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Kara says
Curious, Did you trial it in 2020 bc you felt like the natural deodorants were also not great for you or just to experiment with none?? Do you use any body sprays (besides perfume) daily that have a fresh smell? Thanks for always being willing to share!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Great question! I am pretty sure a blog reader (always!) told me about the charcoal detox and after I did that, I didn’t want to put anything on there (because they were so squeaky clean, ha!).
Jayme S Geeslin says
So interesting! If you decide to stop wearing it ( which I have also pondered) do you think you need to do the detox first?
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know the answer here. My first thought is “probably not”.
Emi says
I did something similar in 2020 but went from antiperspirant to deodorant. I use Lume. I do have to reapply after being active/hot but I love it! Never going back to antiperspirant! I also switched to the curly girl method back then. It was brutal at first but now I can go a good week or two without washing! My scalp is far less oily than when I was using shampoo. Again, never going back! 🙂
Lois says
What is the curly girl method? Thank you!
Kaylee F says
This made me really think…back in 2019 and again in 2022 when I was doing my IVF transfers, they tell you not to wear deodorant or any types of hairspray or aerosol spray. Makes you really stop and think about what we are putting on our bodies. Very good topic for today (I’m back from vaca and getting caught up on emails) that most people don’t even think about because it is such a habit.
K.K. says
Love the freedom here! Yes, Shay!!
Adrienne N says
Yes! I 100% agree. I quit wearing deodorant a few years ago as well and had no issues. However, with recent hormone changes and who knows why, I started smelling way gross when sweaty (menopause maybe???). I found a happy medium with Lume unscented deo for workouts and still go without after showering. Like you said, why keep using chemicals you don’t need just because you’re “supposed to”?!
Mary says
Hi! Thank you for always sharing your health journey. Can you explain how you detoxed?
Jennifer C. says
Haha, I’m laughing because you answered my questions at the end! You’re a mind-reader! I did want to ask…do you think the charcoal detox was a necessary first step to not wearing it? Like, do you think you would’ve been stinky had you not done that? This intrigues me!! Thanks for sharing, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
That’s a great question…and honestly, I’m not sure. I totally don’t think you would “have” to detox.
Bayley says
This crunchy mama loves seeing posts like this!! Might be my favorite post you’ve ever done! ha
For those who might be shocked to hear this– switching to no deo or natural deo can totally be done! Another amazing brand is Primally Pure! Their deodorants (& other items) are amazing and smell so good! If you try natural deo and get a rash it could be that you need to try a baking soda free option.
If anyone is new to anything “clean” & has questions or if you’re already a fellow crunchy and want to connect, I share @thetoxinfreetexan. I’m just a young mom who had MANY hormone issues starting in 2015 and switched my life/food/products/way of thinking back then and it has changed my life and I love sharing. Thank you Shay for this post and bringing all of this to light! I love your point about questioning the “norm” on all things. I think 2020 taught a lot of other people to do that as well. Hope you have a great day! Love reading your blog every day 🙂 PS I randomly met your parents in Seaside a few years ago and shamelessly introduced myself lol they were very sweet!
Ashley D says
Love this discussion! I am very passionate about switching as many personal products as you can to “better” options! We were given one body, and I believe God calls us to be good stewards of that body.
I do wear deodorant, but have found two VERY clean options (and even got my hubby to switch and my parents too 🙂 )
•They use Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream (Activated Charcoal scent) from Amazon. It comes in a little glass jar and a little goes a long way. My husband was apprehensive at first because he thought it was weird putting a cream in his pits, but now he raves about it! I also love supporting this small business and it keeps you smelling fresh all day!
•Another option that I also use is from Sky & Sol – it is a Beef Tallow Base and is a two step process. A spray and then a stick.
I switch back and forth between these two deodorant options! Hope this helps someone!
Lisa P says
My 15 year old son and I both use Little Seed Farm deodorant too! We order directly from their site and have found any of the scents that have activated charcoal in them work best for us. I was excited to see another Little Seed Farm fan!
Carolyn says
Hi Shay! I’m intrigued about the charcoal detox. What made it painful? And was it just a one day kinda thing and then you were good to go?
Mix and Match Mama says
No, I used it for several days (I can’t remember…a week or two?) and basically my armpits detoxed so all sorts of you know “stuff” came out and then it got really red and bumpy and inflamed…it was super irritated.
Beth Knecht says
Currently breastfeeding and holy shoot the stank!
Someone recommended benzoyl peroxide to wash with to help reduce the smell. Sharing in case any other mamas are in the throes of it!
Katie Stewart says
You are the sole reason I made the switch to Native deodorant some 5 or 6 years ago! I was very nervous because I struggle with hyperhidrosis (I never sweat anywhere EXCEPT my pits 🫠) but it has worked like a charm!
It is so true though… the thought of putting chemicals right next to your lymph nodes and breast tissue… really makes you wonder what’s actually happening!
Vickie says
Shay, this is great! I am so glad you spoke out on this topic!
I stopped wearing regular deodorant in 2001! I had read so much about women and breast cancer and the effects of deodorant. I used an all natural deodorant that was made in Texas for a while and still noticed a little odor after exercise, but it totally went away once I went to a completely whole foods plant based style of eating in 2019. Zero odor! Every now and then I will use a distilled water/mineral salt spray, especially in the summer. I have loved your series on Wellness!
Erin says
Hey! Do you have a recommendation for a distilled water/mineral salt spray? Thanks!
Vickie says
Hi, yes, my husband and I currently use the Sprouts brand – only mineral salt and distilled water. I have used several brands over the years. I have used the Thai brand and one other that I cannot recall, however, they all only had two ingredients. I would do a patch test first, but I have very sensitive skin and I mean uber sensitive. It dries quickly and I am amazed at how it works plus it is natural!
Erin says
Thank you!
Kristen says
Hi- I have not worn deodorant probably in the past 10 yrs. I realized I don’t sweat either and gave it up. Once and awhile I will put it on if I go out but I do not wear it at all! Works for me too!
SS says
Shay,
I am wondering if your girls have tried Hello? Our kiddo liked native but likes Hello better.
Mix and Match Mama says
They have not! I’m unfamiliar with that brand. I’ll look it up!
Anne says
Hello toothpaste is amazing!
Lissy says
Hello is the best. There is NO smell. It’s crazy.
Kristy says
I use natural deodorant but I’m very intrigued by no deodorant! I sweat, I think that’s hard to get used to, to have sweaty pits during thr summer.
Lori says
I can’t go without deodorant because I sweat. i really like Primally Pure in Blue Tansy or Charcoal. It really keeps me dry.
Jennifer says
Shay – Can you tell me more about the “gross and painful” part of the armpit detox? I have considered several times trying something other than normal deodorant and I just haven’t done it. I have also considered none at all. Any help on the subject would be helpful.
Mix and Match Mama says
When all of the stuff came up from the charcoal, it was just really irritating. It produced red bumps under my arms (like razor burn) that made it super uncomfortable. I only lasted a few days.
Sandy Blitch says
It is wonderful that you can go without deodorant. I cannot do it, I have tried all those brands mentioned above. I am post-menopausal, everything changes, including your body odor. I had to go back to real deodorant, nothing else would work! I will try to be discreet, but ALL areas need help when you get old, I am 72. I do not need the products with chemicals/aluminum for nether regions, but it was becoming a problem to not use anything…..so, LUME all-over body spray became my new friend. Most of my friends the same age or older have the same issue. It is called Presbyosmia, it can be caused by loss of estrogen and even the foods you eat. Just a special part of being female!
Karah Stracener says
I find this post fascinating. I switched to natural deodorant a few years ago. At first I thought this is not too bad but then I couldn’t stand the smell of myself. Maybe I should have detoxed first. I used Native for a while and then it was like they switched there formula because all of a sudden my armpits got red itchy and bumpy. It was so uncomfortable. I switched to a men’s deodorant and haven’t looked back. I am now thinking about trying a detox phase first and then going back to all natural deodorant. Thank you for sharing. My oldest daughter uses Native and so far so good.
Jill L says
I really like Native, but sometimes I’m like do I even need this? Thanks Shay.
Carly says
Did the girls have to detox before using Native?
Mix and Match Mama says
No, they did not! It’s easy to make the switch to a natural one. You do not have to detox.
Sharon says
I’m allergic to both Native and Lume, so I had to go back to “regular” deodorant. Since I’m 75, I worry about having an “old person” smell. I really enjoy your health posts.
Carly says
Thanks for sharing!
I have noticed my armpits have been so irritated this year so I made the switch to Almay hypoallergenic, fragrance free deodorant last week and it’s been better.
Need to look more closely into the natural deodorants and see if those would be even better for me.
Deb says
I was also on the bandwagon of deodorant is just something you apply every day. About 10 years ago, I started reading about potential impacts of deodorant and tried not using it and realized I don’t need it. I have been deodorant free since.
Meghan says
Thank you for all the great wellness posts! Has what you researched and your desire to not put chemicals and toxins into your body also changed your perspective on botox? Sometimes it seems like anything we try to do has some potential negative effect, some more than others…maybe like botox in the longterm? But it all can be overwhelming. Thank you for breaking things down and sharing!
Karen says
I just went back and read your previous posts. So you are using nothing at all?
Mix and Match Mama says
Nothing.
samantha says
I’ve heard about this and thought of it for years but never deviated from traditional. This post is intriguing me to the point of taking the step to start with trying the Native. Thanks!
Cherie says
Great topic! I switched to Just Ingredients cream deodorant (I like the citrus but there is unscented) a few years ago. I don’t use it daily, but some days I feel like I need a little help. Thanks menopause? TMI? Sorry.
Beth Hall says
Omg i stopped wearing deodorant almost 11 years ago and have not noticed ANY issues! And i pride myself on smelling good. I just rarely have “BO”. If i notice anything i just take a shower and im fine! I don’t even tell people bc they think im crazy!
Robin says
Tons, and I mean TONS of soaps, detergents, lotions, shampoos, makeup, self-tanners, deodorant, etc .have formaldehyde-based preservatives in them. After years of battling skin issues, I discovered that I am highly allergic to them. My skin is still freakishly sensitive, but there has been a marked improvement since I started using products that don’t have those ingredients.
We are also surrounded environmentally with objects containing those preservatives. They are used as “sizing” in new clothes(I used to wonder why my eyes would water and itch when clothes shopping.), in carpet, upholstery, in furniture stains (This I discovered with a bad asthma attack after helping a friend with lining her brand-new kitchen cabinets.)
Just thought I would share as an FYI for your readers if they are struggling with skin issues/allergies and haven’t discovered the cause.
Laura Holmes says
I’ve tried natural deodorants several times without success. Still getting odor issues. I know it’s so bad to use the chemicals and I’d love to go without it. Maybe I should do the detox and see if that’s the key. Something to think about…
Jenn Workman says
I had breast cancer in 2019 that spread to my lymph nodes (currently cancer-free- YAY me!). After I healed from my double mastectomy, lymph node removal, and reconstruction, I wanted to be more mindful of what deo I used since I was missing 22 lymph nodes under my left arm. I tried about 5 natural ones and finally landed on Primally Pure Charcoal Deodorant. I have not looked back! I also use a body oil by Dime (they are another clean brand).
On another note, I wanted to share that some of your readers reached out to me after I made a post about my journey with caring for both of my parents who had Alzheimer’s disease (it was on your May 2025 Book Review post). I had given my email address to a commenter and told her I could share some resources that I developed while getting my doctorate. I was able to share my information with 3 additional sweet women who read my post & reached out. So, all of that to say that your blog is helping others and making a difference! I love the connections that can be made in this corner of the internet.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, I could just cry! I absolutely love how we have created this really sincere and encouraging space online. You truly have no idea how blessed I am by your comment today. I feel so fortunate to be a part of a space where women support and lift up other women.
Jenn Workman says
It is so refreshing to be in a space where we are all allies! It brings me great joy to share my knowledge with others who face the same challenges I did when caring for each of my parents.
Karlee says
Shay, I am so glad you are addressing this topic. I too am deodorant free, have been for at least 3 years, and have never missed it. I didn’t intentionally set out to be deo free, but I have very sensitive skin. Every deodorant I tried to use broke me out and made me itch, even the “natural” ones. I was in pain a lot. The dermatologist suggested I would be better off without the trauma using deodorant caused to my skin and she was right. Do I sweat? Of course! Do I stink? Never! It works for me!
Melisa Johnson says
Hi Shay – I highly recommend for you and your readers to try a free app called Yuka. It turns out that Native deodorant, which I used to use and love, has a very poor rating on that app. It’s interesting because some products made by Native are fine and others get a very poor rating. I would encourage everyone to do their own research regarding clean products! My boys suggested this app to me and now I am addicted and use it for everything, body wash, toothpaste, face cleanser, shampoo and conditioner. Just because a product claims it is organic and safe it isn’t! For example Cetaphil daily facial cleanser fragrance free is rated excellent, but the extra gentle daily scrub is rated poor. Go figure! For guys tell them to try Dr. Squatch products. They all have excellent ratings! By the way I am not affiliated with Yuka or any brand at all. Just a concerned and informed consumer 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
I use the Yuka app!
Kaitlin says
So I also tried Native and am allergic to it as well – I think there’s something about baking soda in natural deodorants that I have a reaction to? Anyway, big Lume fan here! No reaction and it works! And the mens version, Mando is amazing as well – I actually like those scents better. Just a shout out for something that has worked for me!
Dawn Keller says
Next you guys will not be shaving your armpits and going au naturel!!😜🤣 I may try with out too and see if I stink!🥳
Lynn says
Shay, have you listened to the “Sue’s Healthy Minutes” podcast that I recommended a few weeks ago? It lead me to make one big switch that a lot of people don’t understand right away…using freshly-milled flour instead of commercially processed white flour. I didn’t realize **real** bread (not anything found in a store) was actually one of the most nutrient-dense foods available to us! It is full of so many vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin E that is SO important to every cell in our body. Using freshly-milled flour in bread and other baked goods actually has a ton of health benefits..from constipation or IBS to women’s hormones and reproductive health. It’s been truly eye-opening!
If you don’t want to listen to all the different podcast episodes, you can also learn about everything in this one long YouTube video:
https://youtu.be/43s0MWGrlT8?si=gHJ9xuAQZuJVHcc1
Now it all makes sense…why would Jesus call himself the “Bread of Life” if bread was actually bad for us? He wouldn’t. We need more Jesus and more *real* bread in our lives!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have not! Thank you so much for the rec!
Holly says
I’ve never heard of detoxing your armpits! What do you mean by “it was painful”? Please explain!! I always appreciate your info!! 💗💗
Mix and Match Mama says
It was just really irritating…like a really really bad razor burn that lasted a few days.
Penny Jones says
Sorry but …. Too many of my acquaintances have foregone antiperspirant or deodorant for healthier more natural alternatives and absolutely should not. This is a big no for me and any of my friends who have tried. We have been honest with each other and it’s not always pretty. I’m thrilled that your body adapted! You were one of the chosen and blessed. To others, please let your friends know if they stink regardless of how hard they are wanting this to work… and congrats to those who successfully made the leap!!
~B~ says
Have any of you that use Lume, found that it has a musty smell to it? I guess it’s a whole thing, where to some (myself included), it has such an off-putting smell. I still use it occasionally because I feel it’s a good alternative, but man sometimes I can’t. I’m sure a search would bring up the info about why this happens with some of us. Thanks for sharing, Shay!
Maddy says
Do you use a toxic free laundry and dishwasher detergent? I’ve been trying to do my research but haven’t bought a certain brand yet!
Mix and Match Mama says
My laundry detergent is fantastic! I use Laundry Sauce 🙂 . https://laundrysauce.com
Jamie says
i have used [just ingredients] sweet citrus deodorant for years and i love it! my armpits used to be rashy and bumpy prior to my detox and switch to [just ingredients] and now they’re smooth!
Amy Fahrubel says
I’m in the “no deodorant” camp as well! People look at me like I have lost my mind and I am always telling them to smell me. Ha! The only thing I do every so often (maybe once a month because I’m peri-menopause and I find hormones can do me dirty sometimes) is I use glycolic acid and I’m good to go (also is good for dry heels). I didn’t do it for health reasons (that’s just a bonus), I was having a hard time finding one I could wear. I had gotten super sensitive to all deodorant and my armpits would get irritated.
Susan McKain says
Good topic! For these same reasons, I focus on timing by shaving my armpits only at night and applying deodorant only in the morning (instead of immediately after shaving). Just a gut feeling I have about it.
Lois says
Never tried using a natural deodorant, but one day maybe 7 yrs. ago just didn’t put my regular deodorant on following my evening bath. Next morning, decided to try going without since I was staying home. Maybe eating cleaner & drinking lots of water helps me? I still “smell” the underarm areas of my clothes after wearing them to see if I have a stink, but there is no smell. Just launder my clothing as usual. Did no detox.
Jami Romano says
This is so interesting! I’m not a sweater or stinker either, might have to give it a try!!!!
Marisa Patel says
I tried this when you first blogged about it and I am not sure why I stopped, I think maybe because I just don’t use antiperspirant very often but I have definitely gone back to it when I started having hot flashes even though it doesnt do much for it. You have inspired me to try again. I found Megababe Happy Pits Detoxifying Underarm Mask at Target so wish me luck!