It’s been almost 4 years since I converted to natural deodorants. In that time I tested so many different brands before finally finding a deodorant holy grail (until I find something better at least)! I learned during this time that finding an effective natural deodorant is no small task! However, since I discovered Schmidt’s deodorants I have finally identified one that has satisfied nearly all my requirements and have been using them pretty much exclusively for about a year and a half! The ingredient list for Schmidt’s deodorants is great, 100% natural, vegan and certified cruelty free. It contains no harmful ingredients like aluminum salts for example (I would advise you read this article to understand the risks associated with aluminum salts. If you do use conventional deodorants then I would personally advise you to stop now for the sake of your health).
Schmidt’s deodorants are available in 2 versions, with or without Bicarbonate of Soda (Bicarbonate of soda can cause irritation for the most fragile skin so be warned), and exist in two different forms, a pot and a stick. Personally I much prefer the stick format as I find it far more practical than the pot. I tested 4 Schmidt’s deodorants; Bergamot & Lime, Geranium, Coconut Pineapple and Charcoal Magnesium. These last two are new additions to the range but with their release it gives me a great opportunity to review all 4 deodorants and give you my opinion.
With Bicarbonate of Soda
The Bergamot & Lime was the first Schmidt’s deodorant that I had the opportunity to test and I was very satisfied. Even though it was not perfect I found it more effective than all the previous natural deodorants I had tried. It definitely has a tendency to crumble which makes it necessary to massage the product directly into your armpits (or heat the product between your fingers before applying) which is rather a shame seeing as if you choose to buy the stick it is specifically to avoid putting your fingers in the product!! In terms of efficiency then I have nothing bad to say; no odour, lasts all day and smells nice and fresh.
The Charcoal Magnesium is slightly different from the others since it contains charcoal (which gives its grey colour). This is the exact reason I was drawn to it as I found the presence of this ingredient really interesting and unique. Charcoal is known for its absorbent properties so should be ideal for combating sweat. Its texture, unlike the Bergamot & Lime, is smooth and creamy making it very pleasant to apply. Unfortunately, despite these assets, this deodorant was a total fail for me. After only 3 days of use it started to cause me unpleasant itching and red patches which meant I had to stop using it straight away. I don’t know exactly what the cause was because on the whole I can tolerate bicarbonate of soda but perhaps the formula of this particular recipe is just too rich in bicarbonate of soda for my skin. I also find it’s reasonably strong smell not very pleasing to my taste as it reminds me of lemon floor cleaner.
Without bicarbonate
These next two deodorants, Geranium and Coconut Pineapple, are specially formulated for sensitive skin because they don’t contain bicarbonate of soda. Their composition is almost identical as the only ingredient that differs is the perfume (essential oil or natural fragrance). Personally I love the floral fragrance of geranium but I absolutely adore the light and fruity smell of Coconut Pineapple. The soft, creamy texture melts on the skin allowing for easy application. As for the efficiency it find it absolutely wonderful even in the summer heat or after a sport session!
Ingredient List:
Coconut Pineapple: Magnesium hydroxide, Coconut Oil, Arrowroot powder, Shea butter, Fractionated coconut oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Candelilla Wax, Vitamin E, Natural fragrance
Geranium: Magnesium hydroxide, Coconut Oil, Arrowroot powder, Shea butter, Fractionated coconut oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Candelilla Wax, Vitamin E, Geranium essential oil.
Due to my skin type, I am a massive fan of the two versions without baking soda and particularly the Coconut Pineapple deodorant which has swiftly become my absolute favourite! The Bergamot & Lime deodorant is not bad either but seeing as the application process is more laborious due to its texture not being creamy enough it falls behind somewhat. However, if you can handle the Bicarbonate of Soda then all four are really great options!
Have any of you guys tested these Schmidt’s deodorants?
