Itchy, Sensitive Underarms? Here's How to Avoid Natural Deodorant Rash

June 14, 2023 Michele Mayhew

The best natural deodorant Australia

Quick answer: why does natural deodorant cause a rash?

Natural deodorant rash is most commonly caused by baking soda (bicarb), which can disrupt the skin’s pH. Switching to a gentler, bicarb-free formula like Biome Natural Deodorant Cream is often the easiest way to avoid irritation.

Many people suffer itchy underarms when they use a natural deodorant. That's because of the bi-carb.

Read on as we uncover why this ingredient is an irritant and what to look for when shopping for a natural deodorant to avoid natural deodorant rash.

How does natural deodorant work?

Natural deodorant helps prevent or mask body odour without using aluminium or synthetic chemicals.

Unlike conventional antiperspirants, it doesn’t block sweat. Instead, it uses ingredients like baking soda, natural butters, coconut oil, essential oils, magnesium hydroxide or probiotics to neutralise odour-causing bacteria.

Some formulas also include moisture-absorbing ingredients such as arrowroot, cornstarch or kaolin clay to reduce wetness.

Natural deodorant benefits

Using a natural deodorant helps you to avoid exposing your body to potentially harmful substances such as aluminium, parabens, phthalates, or artificial fragrances that may have negative effects on hormonal balance, immune system, or neurological function.

Additionally, natural deodorants may be more sustainable and ethical than conventional ones, as they often use organic, vegan, cruelty-free ingredients and biodegradable or reusable packaging.

Why you get a rash from natural deodorant

If you have experienced a rash or irritation soon after switching to natural deodorant, you are not alone. You may get a rash from natural deodorant for several reasons.

Your body is detoxing

When you switch to a natural deodorant, your body will need time to adjust to the absence of aluminium and other chemicals found in conventional deodorant. Aluminium is used to block the sweat glands and prevent odour, but it can also accumulate in the body over time. When you stop using aluminium-based deodorant, your body may release more sweat and toxins through your pores, which can cause irritation and inflammation in the underarm area.

Your skin's pH is out of balance

Your skin has a natural pH level of around 5.5-6.5, which means it is slightly acidic to neutral. Many natural deodorants contain baking soda (also known as bi-carb, bicarb soda or sodium bicarbonate), which has a pH level of 9 so it is very alkaline.

Applying baking soda to your skin can disrupt your skin's acid mantle, which is a protective layer that helps prevent bacteria, fungi, and environmental pollutants from entering your skin. When your skin's pH level is altered, it can cause dryness, irritation, inflammation, and infections.

Baking soda can strip away the protective lipids and proteins found on your skin's barrier, leaving your skin vulnerable to dehydration, sensitivity, and ageing.

An allergic reaction to natural deodorant ingredients

You may be experiencing an allergic reaction to one or more of the ingredients. Baking soda is the most common culprit. Essential oils, coconut oil and shea butter may also cause an allergic reactions in some people though.

How to treat and prevent armpit rash from deodorant

Here are some simple ways to reduce irritation:

Choose a gentle formula

Your natural deodorant should contain ingredients that work with your body, not against it! Choose a natural deodorant that does not contain baking soda, alcohol, or synthetic fragrances. These ingredients can dry out or irritate your skin, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

A well-formulated option like Biome Natural Deodorant Cream is designed to avoid common irritation triggers while still providing reliable odour control.

If your skin is reacting, it’s worth reading → natural deodorant for sensitive skin, where we break down how to choose a gentler formula.

Patch test

Patch test the product before applying it to your underarms. Apply a small amount of the product to your inner elbow or wrist and wait for 24 hours to see if you have any reaction. If you do, discontinue using the product and look for another one that suits your skin type.

Exfoliate and moisturise your underarms regularly

This can help remove dead skin cells and bacteria that can clog your pores and cause inflammation. Use a gentle body scrub or a washcloth to gently exfoliate your underarms once or twice a week. Then apply a natural moisturiser that contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter.

Give your skin time to adjust

It may take some time for your body to get used to natural deodorant, especially if you have been using conventional deodorant for a long time. During this transition period, you may experience more sweating, odour, or irritation than usual. This is normal and temporary, as your body is detoxifying and balancing its pH levels. Be patient and stick with your natural deodorant for at least a month to see the full benefits. Winter is the perfect time to stick it out, as you are not as hot and sweaty.

Detox your armpits

Earth Purities' Detox-A-Pit is designed to detox your armpits by drawing out toxins and heavy metals, and by correcting bacterial imbalances that cause odour and irritation. Using the paste will prepare your body for the switch to natural deodorant, restore pH levels and improve the general health of your armpits.

Best natural deodorant in Australia

The best natural deodorant is one that is pH balanced, bicarb free and aluminium free. It should be comfortable to wear, easy to apply and non-greasy.

Biome Natural Deodorant Cream is designed to do exactly that — helping absorb moisture, neutralise odour and support the skin barrier.