If you are new to the natural deodorant world, you have probably done some research and stumbled upon countless of articles explaining the benefits of using baking soda as a natural deodorizer. Baking soda does have some useful properties that makes it popular among natural deodorant enthusiasts. For instance, baking soda is effective at absorbing all types of moisture, including sweat, which makes it useful for keeping your underarms dry. It also effectively kills odor causing bacteria. For these reasons, many natural deodorant brands continue to use baking soda as their main ingredient. However, the truth is baking soda is bad for your skin and can have some serious long-term consequences.

Why is baking soda bad in deodorant?

To understand the negative effects of baking soda on your skin, first you need to understand how your skin works. The top layer of your epidermis is the moisture barrier. It is what keeps your skin moisturized and supple. The moisture barrier is protected what is called the acid mantle. This has a pH level of around 5.5, which makes it slightly acidic. This thin acidic layer not only protects the moisture barrier, but also protects your body from pollution and viral and bacterial infections.

Baking soda is a very alkaline ingredient with a pH level around 8.3. When you use baking soda in a deodorant a chemical reaction occurs between your slightly acidic skin and the very alkaline baking soda. During this reaction, the natural acid mantle and moisture barrier are damaged. Over time this damage leaves your skin more vulnerable to infections, pollution, and sun exposure.

What are the side effects of baking soda in deodorant?

People who switch to a baking soda based natural deodorant often experience a skin irritation or rash in their underarms within the first week of use. Many companies will try to attribute this to “detoxing” or an allergic reaction. Please do not be fooled by these myths! A rash is one of the signs that your deodorant is harming your skin. The longer you use the deodorant, the more damage you are doing. Other symptoms include:

• Dryness
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Breakouts
• Discoloration
• Soreness

Baking Soda Free Natural Deodorants

Our motto at Honestly pHresh is “no B.S.” We don’t believe in sacrificing your skin just to smell good! Instead we have spent significant time researching the perfect baking soda free formula that will leave your skin healthy and smelling great.

The journey to a healthier lifestyle is not always an easy one. We know, we have been in your shoes! With all the misinformation out there, it can be frustrating. If you need help making the switch to a natural deodorant that is right for you simply call 888-556-5956 or fill out our contact form to get the conversation started.