Whether you’re using conventional deodorant or deodorants of the “clean” variety, there are some things you can do to help them work a little better for you. These are super simple tricks that do not require expensive and hard-to-find additional products or have you jumping through hoops just to keep your pits smelling fresh. I should also note that these aren’t foolproof; there are many variables that come in to play when it comes to deodorant efficacy. So there’s a chance you may still have to apply a mid to late day layer to keep you smelling fresh or even possibly consider switching formulas or brands if you’re not getting the results you want. This does not just apply (ha!) to “clean” deodorants either. Unless you’re using some sort of industrial strength deodorant/anti-perspirant, you probably have to reapply to maintain that all-day freshness.

How To Make Your Deodorant Work Better and Last Longer

Make sure your underarms are completely dry before applying deodorant. Wait until the end of your morning bathroom routine, rather than right after your shower when your skin is still damp and warm (I know, your armpit is always warm, the point is damp and warm).
Lather and gently exfoliate in a circular motion your underarms to remove dead skin cells which prepares skin for application and by unblocking pores that may be harboring stink causing bacteria. This step has been key for me. It really does help maximize and extend the efficacy of my deodorant. I’ve also noticed that just washing with soap does not always leave me smelling fresh (yes, I have smelled my pits after my shower) so this extra step of exfoliating has really helped.
If you have just shaved, wait a few minutes after your shower (you know like I said above) to apply to avoid stinging and irritation.
Less is more. You only need a light, thin layer to do the trick. Too much can stain your clothing and feel uncomfortable on your skin.
This is not spackle people, you may need a touch up. It doesn’t mean that natural deodorants don’t work. There are several factors that may interfere with the its efficacy (activity, overheating, hormones) or that particular deodorant may not be for you. I know people who need a touch up even when using conventional deodorants. This is not uncommon. Keep one at work or some deodorant wipes in your car or purse.
If you have never used a natural, non-toxic deodorant before, your armpits may go through a "detox" stage. Learn more from Schmidt's blog "The Natural" about Underarm Detox. I, personally, have never done an armpit detox but some people sweat, I mean swear by it.
Try using a charcoal bar to cleans your armpits. Cleansing with a charcoal bar may help absorb impurities and detoxify the armpit area (can also be used on other body parts too) to help reduce stink-causing bacteria. Try Beautcounter’s Charcoal Bar or Megababe’s Space Bar Underarm Soap.

Low and/or Non Toxic Deodorant Brands You May Want to Try

Schmidt's

Schmidt’s has a variety of scents and a sensitive skin formula in a variety of scents as well. It goes on smoothly and does not feel sticky or goopy. Odor control is all natural and non-toxic and Schmidt's also has some wetness absorbing properties via it's "award winning" mineral formulation. It’s available at Target and their own website. The regular formula is $9-$10 and the sensitive skin formula is $11 and Schmidt's also offers a "bundle and save" option via their website.

Native

I’ve used Native for a few years and it has worked really well for me. They offer a wide variety of scents including unscented. Check out their website for testimonials and more information. Native is available at Target and Walmart. It’s $12 a stick. You can also buy through their website.

Lavanila

Lavanila was very similar to Schmidt's in consistency and I did find that it kept me fresh all day. However, I only have the travel size and I used it once when I recently had an overnight. Lavanila also has a few lovely scents, including a "sport" formula for more intense odor control. Lavanila is $14-$16 for a 2oz. stick depending on the formulation. Check out their website for more information.

Megababe - A “new to me” deodorant. I just started using and it’s been really good at keeping me fresh and comfortably dry. I typically reapply about three quarters through the day to maintain that freshness through the evening. It’s $14 full price on the Megababe website.

Beautycounter - As a lover of many Beautycounter products I was excited to try their deodorant. It’s comfortable going on and not heavily fragranced. At first, I wasn’t sure if this one was going to work for me but it ended up being really good. Also, I love the sustainable refill packaging. The initial purchase is $28 and then $18 for the refill so if it really works for you, it might be worth the investment. Check it out on Beautycounter’s website.

Deodorant Wipes

I have never used wipes for all day protection, but they are great for a refresh in the middle of the day or after a trip to the gym. I keep one in my purse and my daughter keeps one in her backpack for gym and after school sports. They come in several scents and I have been finding them at Target for $9 a pack but you can also purchase from Pacifica's website or try Megababe’s Deodorant Wipes.

Lume

Lume is a new natural deodorant developed by OB/GYN, Dr. Shannon Klingman. It is made from naturally-derived ingredients that are suitable for even sensitive skin-types. It’s clinically proven to control odor anywhere on the body for 72-hours and has been getting rave reviews from users. I have yet to try so I can’t personally comment but let’s just say I have one on order as I write this. Learn more about Lume and purchase through their website.

*Updated from a previous post on June 2019.

*This post may contain affiliate links.