We caught up with the team at Salt Of The Earth to understand more about traditional versus natural deodorants, find what they are made of, and answer the infamous question 'Why is aluminium in deodorant bad for you?'.
What’s a surprising fact about deodorant people should know?
Many people are surprised to learn that deodorants, including ours at Salt of the Earth, don’t stop you from sweating— antiperspirants do. Instead, our deodorants work by inhibiting the bacteria that cause body odour, allowing your body to do its natural thing without the unwanted smells. This means you can stay fresh while letting your skin breathe and your body regulate itself naturally. Interestingly, antiperspirants are even classified as a drug in the US because they alter your body’s natural processes.
What's the biggest misconception about natural deodorant?
Many people assume that natural deodorants can’t measure up to traditional ones in terms of effectiveness, but that’s simply not the case. At Salt of the Earth, our natural deodorants are crafted to provide long-lasting protection by inhibiting odour-causing bacteria without the use of synthetic chemicals. We’ve put a lot of effort into creating products that not only match but often exceed the performance of conventional deodorants, all while being gentle on you and better for the environment.
Why is aluminium in deodorant bad for you?
Aluminium chlorohydrate in deodorant can be a concern for some because it works by blocking sweat glands to reduce perspiration, potentially interfering with the body’s natural processes. While the scientific evidence on its long-term health impacts is still debated, many people prefer to avoid it as a precaution. That’s why, at Salt of the Earth, we use potassium alum instead, a mineral salt that neutralises odour without blocking sweat. We also use other natural actives like magnesium and sodium bicarbonate, which help keep you fresh while allowing your skin to breathe and your body to function as it should.
Are there any other chemicals consumers should watch out for?
Yes, there are a few other chemicals that consumers might want to be cautious about in personal care products, including deodorants.
- Parabens: Used to extend the shelf life of products, these preservatives have been linked to risk of hormone disruption.
- Phthalates: Often found in synthetic fragrances, phthalates are under scrutiny for their potential impact on reproductive health.
- Triclosan: An antibacterial agent that can contribute to skin irritation and has raised concerns about antibiotic resistance.
At Salt of the Earth, we avoid these chemicals, opting for natural alternatives that are gentle on the skin and safer for long-term use.
Do you have any tips or hacks on how to get deodorant stains out of clothes?
Absolutely! Here are a few easy methods to help remove deodorant stains from your clothes, using ingredients you likely have at home:
- Baking soda paste is great for breaking down the oils in deodorant. Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply it directly to the stain, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and wash as usual.
- White vinegar helps to lift stains and neutralise odours. Soak the stained area in white vinegar for about an hour before washing.
- Always rinse the stained area with cold water before applying any treatment, as hot water can set the stain.
About Salth of the Earth
Salt of the Earth is an independent, family-owned brand that has been dedicated to creating natural, effective and eco-friendly deodorants since 1993. Over the years, they've sold over 8 million deodorants across more than 35 countries worldwide. Their products are certified 100% COSMOS Natural, Vegan Society approved, Leaping Bunny approved, and Vegetarian Society approved. They're passionate about reducing waste and minimising their environmental impact, offering refillable options and using recycled materials in their packaging.
