Apply a small amount (pea to almond-sized depending on body part) to underarms, breasts, feet, or anywhere you want to control sweat and odour. Massage into skin well for a dry finish. A little goes a very long way.
New to the natural deodorant scene? Here are some common questions and answers to get you started:
Q: why isn't it in a tube like my old deodorant?
A: while there are natural deodorants out there that come packaged in plastic or paper tubes, I personally find them frustrating to use. The more eco-friendly paper tubes don't stay pushed up without your finger in there to hold it, they get oily and break down over time, and the deodorant still needs be rubbed in with your fingers for best results. They also suffer from all the problems of lip balms and similar products - when it's cold they are rock hard and impossible to use, and when it's warm, they turn into a soupy mess. This deodorant is in a tin and has a soft paste-like texture that holds up to temperatures swings. Once you use it for a while you will get used to finger-tip application. And for your health's sake, think of this as some important self care. Applying this deodorant by hand may be one of the few times your forgotten body parts get a bit more hands-on attention, and this can help you detect some often overlooked health conditions (think armpit lumps, cysts, or other concerns). That old tube of deodorant isn't going to tell you if it feels something!
Q: does it have a strong smell?
A: no. I don't use essential oils or synthetic fragrances. The subtle scent of this deo is care of juniper berries that are infused into the ingredients. You will smell it, but no one else will.
Q: so I will still sweat?
A: yes, at times. If you are transitioning from an aluminum-based antiperspirant, sweating will be more pronounced for the first couple weeks as your body learns how to regulate sweating again. It's crucial to eliminating toxins. During normal daily activity you should feel quite dry thanks to arrowroot and diatomaceous earth powders, and during exertion or exercise you can expect to sweat. But, you won't stink!
Q: how does it keep me from smelling bad?
A: magnesium raises your skin's pH making it a not fun place for odor-causing bacteria. Natural zinc oxide and ricinoleate neutralize the odor that is still there, preventing it from multiplying through the day. It's those bacteria that cause the smell. Many natural deodorants have high amounts of essential oils or synthetic fragrance to mask your odor, so they aren't really doing their job.
Q: is it safe on my sensitive skin?
A: yes! Safe for all of your body's most sensitive areas. This is because it only uses natural ingredients, without any synthetics or fragrance, and importantly there is no baking soda or other irritants. Baking soda is unfortunately very common in natural deodorants, and it really aggravates your skin's barrier causing redness, itching and discomfort. Natural magnesium has replaced that problematic ingredient in this deodorant.
