Ideal Bite

Wanna say "buh-bye" to B.O.?

07.03.2008

Submitted by tmeronek on Thu, 07/03/2008 - 1:18am.

The Bite:

Then raise your arm and roll or spray on some eco-deodorant. It'll mask not-so-sweet scents without potentially harmful chems, so you can wave farewell to wellness worries too.

The Benefits:

Saying sayonara to smells. Although they won't do much for wetness, natural deodorants can neutralize smells and provide antiseptic action against bacteria.
Bidding adieu to aluminum. The jury's still out, but aluminum (the active ingredient in many deodorants) has been linked to cancer and Alzheimer's, so opt for natural alternatives for peace of mind.
Parting ways with other noxious chems. Pick options sans parabens (linked to cancer), propylene glycol (a neurotoxin), talc (which sometimes contains asbestos), and triclosan (a skin irritant).
A big "what's up" to a cleaner planet. Fewer hazardous chems in your deodorant mean fewer will end up in the waste stream.

Personally Speaking:

Jen usually sticks to Weleda's Wild Rose Spray - unless she's got a hot date during summer months, in which case she takes no chances and uses the regular-old aluminum stuff.

Wanna Try:

Since everyone's body chem is different, you might have to try a couple natural deodorants before you find a good fit, but these worked best for us:

Weleda Wild Rose Spray - a couple spritzes of this flowery concoction will keep most Biters fresh throughout the day ($15).
Miessence Tahitian Breeze Roll-on - our fave roll-on has a summery scent; reapply every few hours ($10).
Crystal Body Deodorant Stick - it didn't work for a couple of us, but some swear by its unscented mineral salts; the stick lasts a year or more and works on feet as well ($7).
Alba Clear Enzyme Stick - light lavender smell with soothing aloe vera, and baking soda to sop up sweat ($6).

Cocktail Fact

Libraries in San Luis Obispo County, CA, can legally kick out people with offensive body odor.

Bang For The Bite

Natural deodorants won't do much for moisture and the eco-impact isn't immense, but they combat odor and are fairly priced in comparison to traditional pit sticks.

1 comment