I was very excited when I first got the EcoBody Deodorant Paste. I read so much about natural deos that I thought I was finally ready for the change. I was initially hesitant because of the thing they call “Transitional Body Odour,” which you normally get when you stop using chemical-laden anti-perspirant as your body finally gets rid of toxins that are meant to come out in the first place. I even bought bentonite clay so I can do the armpit detox effectively!

Some people who have tried natural deodorants and failed is because they didn't know what to expect about the possibility of 'stinking' for the first week or two. If you ever try this swap, make sure that you are aware of the transitional body odour, and that you're ready to do the armpit detox.  

This is the best armpit detox regime I found:

You need 1 Tbsp bentonite clay and 1-2 tsp and water. Just combine the bentonite clay and water to form a slightly watery paste. Apply it on your armpits, and let it sit there for 5-15 minutes. Bentonite clay is meant to draw out impurities, but watch out for a bit of a reaction; after all, armpit is a sensitive area. Then wash off the clay with a damp cloth or in the shower. Many sources recommend the use of apple cider vinegar (ACV) in conjunction with the bentonite clay. Soak your reusable facial pads in ACV, and swipe your armpits with it. If you have sensitive skin, you can dilute the ACV with water to make it less acidic. ACV neutralises bad bacteria that may be causing the bad odour. You can do this regime for a week or two depending on how your body is reacting to the natural deodorant.

I also checked the common ingredients used for natural deos, and I was so surprised to find out that some of the leading natural deodorants out there contain sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Apparently, most people react to sodium bicarbonate because it changes the pH in the armpit area, which causes the common irritation. I was glad to know that the EcoBody deo doesn't have this. 

When Ecobody Deo Paste arrived on my doorstep, I changed my mind about the armpit detox. That same day, I went cold turkey (it also happened that my old deo was almost empty - perfect timing!). As stupid as it may sound, I thought I’d want to experience the transitional body odour to get the full experience. I was so conscious about my smell for the first few days of using the EcoBody deo in fear of offending my workmates or my friends. But guess what, it never came!  The dreaded ‘transitional body odour’ didn’t happen to me. How lucky!

But to be fair, I ensured that my hygiene is on point. I used the EcoShack soap mesh to gently  rub my underarm when showering, and I made sure that my armpits were nice and dry before I applied the EcoBody deo paste. I am guessing that what made the difference for me. 

In the last month, I also did varying levels of activity to challenge this new deo. And believe it or not, the more I sweat I had, the more I can smell the mild scent of the EcoBody Deo Paste, with no top-up needed! I was a bit hesitant with how you apply this deo paste as well, but it's actually not an issue at all; it's different, but good different. 

I’m converted.

I know that I have only been using this for a month or so, but this has exceeded my expectation. This kiwi-made natural deodorant is the real deal.