Your Guide to Original and Sensitive Deodorants

While a lot of us have amazing success with natural deodorants, which can often end up outperforming our old mainstream ones, I have found that a common problem is that some of us can end up with itchy or irritated underarms after using certain brands or formulas. Usually the reason for this is the inclusion of Bicarb, also known as Baking Soda or Sodium Bicarbonate, which is widely used in natural deodorant formulations for its reliable odour-neutralising properties. Thankfully there are now a number of Bicarb-free versions on the market which are perfect for those who know they need to steer clear of the regular formulations!

Is Bicarb safe in deodorant?

Yes! I have noticed that when some people see a deodorant marketed as 'Bicarb-free' they think there might be some sort of issue with it, but really it just means that it is a 'sensitive' formula that can be used by anyone prone to irritation from other deodorants which contain Bicarb. Bicarb is a common ingredient in natural deodorants because it is a natural deodoriser and neutraliser with a higher pH level (meaning it is more alkaline than acidic).¹ Because we all have different skin types, some people find they are very sensitive to Bicarb and their skin can react badly to it, causing itchiness and irritation, while others have absolutely no issues at all and find it very effective. Something to consider is that you may need to prep your underarms when switching from mainstream to natural deodorants by doing an armpit detox first. I recommend the Earths Purities Detox-A-Pit, which is a seven-day treatment designed to help reduce the potential for redness and rashes.

Original and sensitive natural deodorant pastes

No Pong All-Natural Anti-Odourant - ORIGINAL
Designed to provide over 12 hours of reliable protection, the No Pong All-Natural Anti-Odourant - ORIGINAL is a creamy blend of soothing Coconut Oil and Beeswax and deodorising Baking Soda. Formulated to help create a water-resistant environment, this antibacterial deodorant works to prevent body odour and minimise sweat, even throughout exercise and stressful situations. Australian made and packaged in a reusable tin, this lightweight paste has a subtle, gender-neutral fragrance from certified organic essential oils including Sweet Orange, Vanilla and Cedarwood.

No Pong All-Natural Anti-Odourant - BICARB FREE
A bicarb-free formula created especially for those with sensitive skin, the No Pong All-Natural Anti-Odourant - BICARB FREE is designed to be just as effective as the original formula. With hydrating Coconut Oil and Beeswax and deodorising Magnesium Hydroxide, this gentle paste also contains Diatomaceous Earth to help absorb moisture and provide day-long protection from body odour and excess sweat. This version has a reduced concentration of essential oils for a very light fragrance.

Black Chicken Remedies Axilla Deodorant Paste
A bestselling favourite for both men and women, the Black Chicken Remedies Axilla Deodorant Paste has been known to outperform mainstream deodorants thanks to its unique formulation. With nourishing Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and Vitamin E to soothe and protect delicate underarms, this creamy paste also contains antibacterial and absorbent Bicarb, Arrowroot and Kaolin Clay to neutralise odour and help keep underarms dry, and also has a mild scent from Peppermint, Lime and Clove essential oils. This paste is vegan, gluten free, Australian made and free from palm oil.

Black Chicken Axilla Deodorant Paste - BARRIER BOOSTER
Bicarb-free and ideal for sensitive skin, the Black Chicken Axilla Deodorant Paste - BARRIER BOOSTER is designed to help create a barrier against odour-causing bacteria without blocking sweat glands thanks to absorbent Magnesium Hydroxide, Diatomaceous Earth and Tapioca. Soothing and anti-inflammatory, this creamy formula also contains calming Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and Vitamin E to keep skin soft and smooth, and is lightly scented with a lower concentration of Pink Grapefruit and Mandarin essential oils. Like the original version, this paste is vegan, gluten free, palm oil free and Australian made.

Original and sensitive natural deodorant cream sticks

Schmidt's Rose + Vanilla Deodorant Stick
The Schmidt's Rose + Vanilla Deodorant Stick is natural, vegan, and aluminium free. It provides antiseptic and antioxidant properties, as well as all day protection from body odour and sweat. This fast absorbing formula does not leave any sticky residue behind.It uses nourishing ingredients such as Coconut Oil, Arrowroot and Shea Butter combined with rose and vanilla for a subtly luxurious scent.

Original and sensitive roll-on deodorant

Earths Purities Liquid Deodorant - Bianca for Her
An easy to use, roll-on formula, the Earths Purities Liquid Deodorant - Bianca for Her contains hydrating Coconut, Jojoba, Argan, Rosehip and Macadamia Oils as well as absorbent Arrowroot and Bicarb for a gentle and soothing liquid deodorant which cares for skin while helping to prevent body odour. Enriched with nourishing Vitamin E and scented with a floral, citrusy essential oil blend, this vegan and Australian made formula also helps to reduce bacteria and keep armpits dry.

Earths Purities - Pure for Her Bi-Carb Free Deodorant
A gentle yet powerful alternative, the Earths Purities - Pure for Her Bi-Carb Free Deodorant features a blend of antibacterial and moisture-wicking Apple Cider Vinegar, Arrowroot, Witch Hazel, Diatomaceous Earth and Bentonite Clay to help keep your armpits fresh and dry with minimal risk of irritation. Creamy and long lasting, this liquid roll-on has a light fragrance from Lavender, Vanilla and Grapefruit essential oils, and also contains antibacterial Colloidal Silver to help draw out impurities. This vegan, gluten free and Australian made deodorant also comes in a recyclable glass bottle with removable roller ball.

Source: ¹ Good Food.