So as you all know, I’m a huge fan of anything clean, green, and natural. I’ve been trying to transition all my skincare and beauty products to natural options for the past while in an effort to be more mindful of what I’m putting into (and on) my body. After having Pierce, I became hyper-aware of all the crazy chemicals that seemed to be in a LOT of products. It’s never a good sign to see an ingredient you can’t pronounce or spell!!! I knew I didn’t want to be using any scary chemicals on my newborn, but it also got me thinking about what I was using for myself. Why would I want to be soaking in unnecessary harmful toxins!? Especially while breastfeeding! I slowly started to research and incorporate more plant-based foods, move away from products tested on animals, and put more care and thought behind what I was buying for myself and my fam. This was a life shift for me, and I wanted all these changes to work hand-in-hand and make a lasting commitment to a cleaner lifestyle. I wasn’t going to overhaul my family’s habits just to counteract those changes by using products that weren’t aligned with this mindset!

Deodorant was the first product that had to change. With how much we now know about how harmful those little drugstore sticks can be for your health long term (aluminum can even lead to breast cancer!!), it was time to switch things up. The road to natural deodorant has not always been smooth. I’ve tried LOTS of different brands, and for those of you who have made the switch….you know that you can be left smelling stinky like an onion with the wrong brand. Enter I Luv It Natural Deodorant!! This is by far my favourite natural deodorant and it ACTUALLY works (promise). I love all the essential oil scents and it gives me such peace of mind to know that it’s made locally in Abbotsford with no chemicals, synthetic ingredients, or any kind of animal testing. They use natural ingredients that are beneficial instead of harmful to your underarms like nourishing cocoa butter and coconut oil. Say goodbye to razor rash! Not to mention I love supporting strong, female-owned and operated businesses. Now more than ever, it’s important to rally behind your favourite local brands and show them some love!!

Ok, here’s what you need to know before going au naturel with I Luv It Natural Deodorant, and everything I wish I’d known before making the switch! When you start using natural deodorant it takes 1-2 weeks for your pits to detox from drugstore deodorant chemicals. This phase can get a little stinky, but don’t let it scare you—I promise it gets better! Our bodies become used to having these chemicals in our system and have forgotten how to regulate our own sweat and stink. I found it to be a little bit of an adjustment to apply my deodorant with my fingers at first, but got totally used to it by the time the detox phase was over. It’s also great to think about all the waste you’re cutting down on by eliminating plastic applicators. The I Luv It jars make great little storage tins once they’re empty!! Although a little birdy did tell me that I Luv It is working on a sustainable stick version, which I can’t wait to try. I usually apply in the morning which keeps me smelling and feeling fresh all day, but if I have a stressful or busy day I’ll usually re-apply every 4-5 hours just to be safe!

My biggest takeaway is to start the transition when you’re either feeling comfortable in your long-term relationship or are taking a break from the dating scene LOL! It takes a bit of getting used to, but the long-term health benefits are SOSOSO worth the 1-2 weeks of stink! In the grand scheme of things, it’s such an easy switch to make, and will protect you and your pits for years to come. My next goal is to get Gary using I LUV IT and incorporating it into his daily routine!! Wish me luck. He’s a big stinky man so I have my work cut out for me haha. I already have him switched over to a natural body wash which he seems to like so that’s a good first step!! I’ll keep you all posted 😉

Let me know if you have any questions or tips about making the switch to natural deodorant in the comments!

n xx

Photography by Brooklyn D Photography