As you know, I have adapted a zero-waste/low-impact lifestyle for almost 3 years now and I’m very happy about it. However, I notice that a lot of people haven’t done the same, despite wanting to start. A lot of people would come up to me and say that they are confused and unsure on how to make the same change. Personally, I think this lifestyle requires some trial-runs to find out what the best method and tools for you will be. I’d like to help you figure out exactly what you want, one step at a time.
Last year I posted 3 types of reusable straws to choose from. It has been one of the most frequently asked question in regards to zero-waste living. Today I’d like to walk you through some natural deodorants you can try, as it is what I often find confusing during the transition.
Alum Stone (Batu Tawas)
How to use: soak it in water and apply it on your pits
If you want to go full natural, this is the best option, to be honest. Alum is a type of chemical compound. Most often, the word ‘alum’ actually refers to potassium aluminium sulphate (KAl(SO4)2).
The stone doesn’t prevent you from sweating, but it does keep the bacteria from mixing with your fluid, resulting in reduced body odour—although the stone is unscented. The effect doesn’t last too long—probably less than 12 hours—so it needs to be reapplied repeatedly.
Although the stone needs to be soaked to be applied, it will always stay dry which means it will last you a long time. I’ve had it for over a year now and it’s barely had a dent on it. You can get this one from just about any bulk store.
Organic Roll-On
How to use: roll on your pits to apply
This one is actually a new option for me. I’m not sure how common this option is in the zero-waste lifestyle community, but I do find it very practical. It is scented and will last the whole day. It is also the wettest option in this list, but it will not feel clammy—at least not in my experience.
If you’re used to the regular store-bought roll-on deodorant, this one will be the most comfortable option for you. It also doesn’t leave a stain and may help with your darkening pits. However, for me, this option often doesn’t come with a zero-waste packaging. I had to scour the internet for mine.
The one I got is the orange scent from Halwey in Kulon Progo. As I’ve only got it for a month, I don’t really know how long this will last me yet, although I predict perhaps 6 months.
Cream Deodourme
How to use: take some cream and smear it on your pits
Saving the best for last, here is my favourite kind of zero-waste deodorant. I’ve been using this kind from a couple different brands ever since I transitioned into this lifestyle.
Since it comes in cream form, its solidity may vary depending on the temperature of the room it’s being stored in—I’d take it to an air-conditioned room and it will harden. The cream itself isn’t scented, although it usually smells subtly of coconut. It is not anti-perspirant, but it does keep the sweat from emanating a tangy odour as it contains zinc oxide that absorbs the bacteria.
Although it is usually sold in small batches, these cream deodorants can last up to 3-4 months—and, in my experience, even longer. You can get this variety from Segara Naturals, Dayou and Dimanja Bumi.
For years, I’ve never used deodorant—this was long before transitioning to a low-impact lifestyle—and it hasn’t really done me any harm. It could be another option for you, but if you don’t feel like it, of course you can always choose one of the above options. This is a personal care item, though, so please check the ingredients before you try it on, just in case it will trigger some allergic reaction.
Some of the most common allergenic ingredients usually include aluminium and baking soda, so keep an eye out for that. You can also try making your own deodorant if you’re afraid of all the available products out there—maybe try this recipe. So what would you want me to review next? Let me know in the comments!
Also, which kind of zero-waste deodorant do you like?
As you know, I have adapted a zero-waste/low-impact lifestyle for almost 3 years now and I’m very happy about it. However, I notice that a lot of people haven’t done the same, despite wanting to start. A lot of people would come up to me and say that they are confused and unsure on how to make the same change. Personally, I think this lifestyle requires some trial-runs to find out what the best method and tools for you will be. I’d like to help you figure out exactly what you want, one step at a time.
Last year I posted 3 types of reusable straws to choose from. It has been one of the most frequently asked question in regards to zero-waste living. Today I’d like to walk you through some natural deodorants you can try, as it is what I often find confusing during the transition.
Alum Stone (Batu Tawas)
How to use: soak it in water and apply it on your pits
If you want to go full natural, this is the best option, to be honest. Alum is a type of chemical compound. Most often, the word ‘alum’ actually refers to potassium aluminium sulphate (KAl(SO4)2).
The stone doesn’t prevent you from sweating, but it does keep the bacteria from mixing with your fluid, resulting in reduced body odour—although the stone is unscented. The effect doesn’t last too long—probably less than 12 hours—so it needs to be reapplied repeatedly.
Although the stone needs to be soaked to be applied, it will always stay dry which means it will last you a long time. I’ve had it for over a year now and it’s barely had a dent on it. You can get this one from just about any bulk store.
Organic Roll-On
How to use: roll on your pits to apply
This one is actually a new option for me. I’m not sure how common this option is in the zero-waste lifestyle community, but I do find it very practical. It is scented and will last the whole day. It is also the wettest option in this list, but it will not feel clammy—at least not in my experience.
If you’re used to the regular store-bought roll-on deodorant, this one will be the most comfortable option for you. It also doesn’t leave a stain and may help with your darkening pits. However, for me, this option often doesn’t come with a zero-waste packaging. I had to scour the internet for mine.
The one I got is the orange scent from Halwey in Kulon Progo. As I’ve only got it for a month, I don’t really know how long this will last me yet, although I predict perhaps 6 months.
Cream Deodourme
How to use: take some cream and smear it on your pits
Saving the best for last, here is my favourite kind of zero-waste deodorant. I’ve been using this kind from a couple different brands ever since I transitioned into this lifestyle.
Since it comes in cream form, its solidity may vary depending on the temperature of the room it’s being stored in—I’d take it to an air-conditioned room and it will harden. The cream itself isn’t scented, although it usually smells subtly of coconut. It is not anti-perspirant, but it does keep the sweat from emanating a tangy odour as it contains zinc oxide that absorbs the bacteria.
Although it is usually sold in small batches, these cream deodorants can last up to 3-4 months—and, in my experience, even longer. You can get this variety from Segara Naturals, Dayou and Dimanja Bumi.
For years, I’ve never used deodorant—this was long before transitioning to a low-impact lifestyle—and it hasn’t really done me any harm. It could be another option for you, but if you don’t feel like it, of course you can always choose one of the above options. This is a personal care item, though, so please check the ingredients before you try it on, just in case it will trigger some allergic reaction.
Some of the most common allergenic ingredients usually include aluminium and baking soda, so keep an eye out for that. You can also try making your own deodorant if you’re afraid of all the available products out there—maybe try this recipe. So what would you want me to review next? Let me know in the comments!
Also, which kind of zero-waste deodorant do you like?