Despite skeptics questioning their effectiveness, natural deodorants have steadily made a vast market for themselves. This new appreciation for natural products is emphasized by the myths claiming that aluminum – the ingredient that actively blocks sweat glands – causes breast cancer.
To date, the National Cancer Institute has not found any direct correlation between the two. In reality, the usual absence of aluminum in natural deodorants tends to raise more skepticism due to its important role in antiperspirants.
Instead of branding itself as an antiperspirant, NATIVE focuses on “reducing and neutralizing odours associated with sweat.” They like to embrace the benefits of sweating, such as temperature regulation and toxin removal. This is why the brand, an affordable and cruelty-free alternative, proudly adversities “Aluminum Free” on all of their products.
While it does not necessarily pose detrimental health risks, aluminum may lead to clogged pores. This is typically why most first-time users have a hard time switching from conventional deodorant to natural. The build-up must first be withdrawn, either with a clarifying treatment or on its own, before the natural deodorant is effective.
All NATIVE products are also paraben-free, preventing underarm exposure to harsh chemicals. Additionally, the Sensitive Collection is made without baking soda. A common ingredient in natural deodorant, bicarbonate, sometimes causes irritation among those prone to rashes or breakouts.
Now that the company has its vegan formula and strong following locked down, they have decided to focus on sustainability. Available in five of their signature scents, NATIVE has recently launched deodorant with plastic-free packaging made from paperboard.
This eco-friendly switch holds the potential to cut plastic waste by up to 169 tons in a year. In addition, they are donating one percent of sales to environmentalist nonprofit organizations.
All images in this article are courtesy of NATIVE.
