Why some people experience irritation from natural deodorant

Have you tried clean deodorants that have left you red and irritated? If so, you’re not alone. There’s a big possibility that the annoying irritation you experienced was caused by baking soda, which happens to be one of the most common natural deodorant ingredients — we even use it at Curie! But you shouldn’t write off our clean deodorant quite yet if you’re sensitive to baking soda. 

In our unique formulas, we combine sodium bicarbonate (the scientific name for baking soda) with calming elements to minimize the risk of irritation. For those who are extra sensitive to baking soda, we even created a spray version that ditches the ingredient completely. You shouldn’t have to suffer through red, inflamed armpits, which is why we put you first with our gentle deodorants.

The Common Culprit: Baking Soda

There’s a reason why you’ll find baking soda in so many clean deodorants: It’s a natural odor-neutralizing ingredient that staves off the bacteria that makes you stink in the first place. That effectiveness is difficult to replicate with other natural ingredients — but not impossible.  

Why does baking soda sometimes cause irritation in the first place? It all comes down to science. Remember that epic elementary school science experiment where you used vinegar and baking soda to make a volcano? Your teacher probably took the time to explain why baking soda + vinegar = volcano, but here’s a quick refresher: That reaction happens because baking soda has a basic (high) pH and vinegar has an acidic (low) pH. The combination of high and low pH causes a reaction. 

Skin is naturally more acidic than baking soda, which can result in that less-than-ideal reaction. But no sweat! We figured out a way to lessen the chance of irritation without completely nixing the effective ingredient. (And for those with super sensitive skin, we created another solution that doesn’t include it at all!)

Why Some React & Others Don’t 

You may be wondering why some people are sensitive to baking soda while others aren’t. Well, it all comes down to science — and your skin’s natural pH levels. 

Your pH can be affected by age, gender, diet, and hormones, among other things. We spoke with a dermatologist who estimated that only ~5-10% of women experience skin reactions from baking soda, and some only experience it during their menstrual cycles. The more you know!

The Solution? Curie

Perfection takes time, that’s why it took dozens of formulas, along with tons of real-world testing and feedback from our customers to develop a formula that is gentle — yet still effective — enough for those who are sensitive to baking soda. 

Our clean deodorant stick is made with minimal amounts of baking soda, but we also added extra soothing ingredients — like arrowroot powder and sage oil — to offset any adverse reactions.

Still, if you prefer to avoid baking soda completely, we developed our Deodorant & Body Spray. This spritzer is 100% baking soda-free so there’s no room for irritation! Instead, a mix of sage oil, witch hazel, and probiotics sop up sweat and rebalance your skin so you don’t experience any funky odors. Plus, you can spritz this anywhere you sweat (not just your pits!) for extra protection throughout the day. 

“For a person who has sensitive skin, Curie means I get to wear tank tops again! My pits were always in a constant state of breaking out and that has completely stopped since switching to Curie!” - Joann

Making the switch to clean deodorant can feel like a battle for your skin. With Curie, you can confidently make the swap without worrying about that pesky redness and irritation. We design every formula all skin types in mind — because we <3 you! Try out Curie’s deodorants today! If you can’t decide between the stick or spray, you can shop out Deodorant Duo to try out both. 

Shop today to experience the Curie Difference ✨