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Paleo Diet Primal Is Your Deodorant Toxic Antiperspirant spray-min

Is Your Deodorant Toxic?

When you put so much care and effort into your Paleo nutrition and fitness, are you equally aware of the health and beauty products you use, like your deodorant?

Deodorant and antiperspirant are something most people use – and apply directly onto their skin every day, but is commercial deodorant safe?

Shop brought deodorants often contain parabens – a chemical that has been associated with cancers. Deodorants often also contain aluminium, which is used to stop perspiration – but has been linked to dementia, brain disorders and breast cancer.

It is also common for deodorants to contain alcohol, which can be drying for some skin types.
While aluminium free and paraben free deodorants are available, these can still come with added alcohols or other chemicals that could build up in the body. There are many natural deodorants available, for example made from crystal stones. However – you could make your own natural alternative!

Deodorant For Women

Ingredients:

  • Five teaspoons of distilled witch hazel
  • 5mls (0.17 fluid ounces) of vitamin E oil
  • 10 – 20 drops of geranium essential oil
  • 10 – 20 drops of ylang ylang essential oil
  • 5 drops of clary sage
  • One small spritzer bottle

Directions:

Add the witch hazel into a small mixing bowl and then add in the vitamin E oil and blend it together using the end of a pipette, a teaspoon, or a small wooden spatula.

Next add the essential oils and remember to build them gradually until you have the desired scent. Once ready, pour into the spritzer body and use when need. This can be stored in the fridge for a cooling effect.

Deodorant for Men

Ingredients:

  • 5 teaspoons of distilled witch hazel
  • 10 – 20 drops of sandalwood essential oil
  • 10 – 20 drops of pine essential oil
  • 5mls (0.17 fluid ounces) of vitamin E oil
  • One small spritzer bottle

Follow the directions for the deodorant for women.

If preferred, just use the sandalwood essential oil on its own.

Solid Deodorant

Warning: Take care when heating and pouring the cocoa butter to ensure it doesn’t get on your hands as it will be extremely hot.

Ingredients:

  • 30g (1.05 ounce) of cocoa butter or shea butter
  • Essential oils as listed in the above recipes
  • 5mls of vitamin E oil
  • Square soap mould or massage bar mould

Directions:

Melt the butter in a saucepan by lightly heating it on a hob or in a microwave oven until melted.

Stir in the vitamin E oil and then added in the essential oils.

Pour the mix into soap or massage bar mould. For a smooth bar, use a soap mould.

Leave the bar to cool overnight and it will be ready to use the next morning.

Bicarbonate of soda can also be used for a simple, effective deodorant.

Note: Pregnant women should take advice before using essential oils.

Do you use commercial deodorant or antiperspirant – or perhaps you go without entirely? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this – and whether you’d try making a natural alternative – in the comments below.

Paleo Diet Primal Is Your Deodorant Toxic Antiperspirant spray-min

Understanding the Difference: Deodorant vs Antiperspirant

Before diving deeper into natural alternatives, it's important to understand the fundamental difference between deodorant and antiperspirant. Deodorants work by neutralising odour caused by the bacteria that break down sweat. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, are designed to block your sweat glands, preventing perspiration altogether. This blockage is usually achieved through aluminium-based compounds, which form a temporary plug in your sweat ducts.

While reducing sweat may sound appealing, sweating is one of the body’s essential natural detoxification processes. Suppressing it can interfere with the body’s temperature regulation and toxin release. By opting for a natural deodorant, you allow your body to sweat as it should while neutralising odour in a safer, less invasive way.

Transitioning to Natural Deodorant

If you’ve used conventional products for years, you may find there’s a transition period when switching to a natural alternative. This is completely normal. Your body needs time to adjust, especially if your pores have been clogged for years with antiperspirant ingredients. You may sweat more than usual or notice stronger odour for the first week or two.

To support this process, try a detoxifying armpit mask made from bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. This can help draw out impurities and ease the transition. Also, ensure you stay well hydrated, wear breathable fabrics, and wash regularly with a gentle natural soap.

Other Natural Ingredients That Work

There are several other natural ingredients that have been found effective in reducing odour and promoting skin health. Consider experimenting with these in your DIY deodorants or choosing products that contain them:

  • Arrowroot powder: Absorbs moisture without blocking sweat glands.
  • Bentonite clay: Detoxifying and antibacterial, useful in paste-style deodorants.
  • Activated charcoal: Known for its toxin-absorbing abilities, it helps neutralise odour naturally.
  • Coconut oil: Antimicrobial and moisturising, helps reduce irritation and bacterial growth.
  • Baking soda (bicarbonate of soda): Great for odour control, though it may irritate sensitive skin if used in large quantities.

When combining these ingredients, aim to strike a balance between effectiveness and gentleness. Test a small amount on your skin to check for any sensitivity before regular use.

Essential Oil Combinations to Try

Essential oils not only give your deodorant a pleasant scent but also offer antibacterial and antifungal properties. Here are some suggested blends to customise your deodorant:

  • Citrus Fresh: Lemon, grapefruit and bergamot – uplifting and clean (note: avoid direct sun exposure after applying citrus oils).
  • Earthy Calm: Vetiver, frankincense and cedarwood – grounding and soothing.
  • Herbal Clean: Lavender, rosemary and sage – calming and fresh-smelling.
  • Floral Sweet: Rose, jasmine and neroli – luxurious and feminine.

These combinations not only help keep odour at bay but also contribute subtle aromatherapy benefits to your daily routine.

Storage and Shelf Life

Because natural deodorants don’t contain synthetic preservatives, it’s important to store them correctly to extend their shelf life. Keep spritzers in a cool, dark place and always store solid bars in a sealed container away from direct heat or sunlight. If you notice a change in colour, smell or consistency, it may be time to discard and make a fresh batch.

Solid bars tend to last longer than liquid sprays, but freshness will also depend on the oils used. If you're using coconut oil, for example, remember that it will solidify in cooler temperatures and liquefy in warmer ones, so plan storage accordingly.

When Natural Isn’t Enough

Some people find they still need something a little stronger, especially in hot climates or during exercise. In this case, applying your natural deodorant multiple times throughout the day may help. Carrying a travel-sized version in your bag can make this easier.

If irritation develops, reduce or eliminate ingredients like baking soda and switch to a sensitive skin formula using arrowroot, clay and essential oils. Always patch test new recipes and remember, more natural doesn’t always mean better for every skin type — listen to your body and adapt accordingly.

Making the Switch: A Holistic Perspective

Switching to a natural deodorant is about more than just the product — it’s about embracing a holistic approach to wellness. When you stop suppressing natural processes like sweating and instead support your body with nourishing ingredients, you create balance and improve long-term health outcomes.

While the initial adjustment can be challenging, many people report fewer odour issues over time, as their bodies rebalance and adapt. Combined with a clean Paleo diet, proper hydration, regular detoxification, and breathable natural fabrics, natural deodorant can be just as effective — and much safer — than its conventional counterparts.

Embrace a Cleaner Routine

Deodorant is just one small part of your personal care routine, but it’s an important one. Every day, we expose ourselves to dozens of chemicals through our beauty and hygiene products. Making simple swaps, like switching to a DIY natural deodorant, can significantly reduce your toxic load and support better long-term health.

If you’re already mindful of what goes on your plate, it only makes sense to be just as intentional about what goes on your skin. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it absorbs far more than most people realise. What you put on it matters.

So why not give it a go? Experiment with a few of the recipes above and see how you feel after a few weeks. Your body — and your skin — might just thank you for it.

How to season cast iron cookware skillet pan paleo diet primal

How to Season Cast Iron Cookware

If you were lucky enough to get your hands on a cast iron frying pan for Christmas this guide will tell you exactly how to season and look after it to make sure it does the job and lasts for a long time. If you haven’t got any cast iron cookware, it’s definitely worth looking out for second-hand. So long as it has no cracks or chips it will be as good as new once you clean and season it.

After having bought so many cheap pans, only for them to fall apart soon after, I’ve found cast iron so much more durable. They also distribute the heat really evenly, so they’re great to cook in. The other huge plus – is no Teflon. What happens to that stuff when it starts to flake off in your dinner…?

If you find everything sticks to your cast iron pan, you’ve probably not seasoned it properly.
How to season cast iron cookware skillet pan paleo diet primal

How to season your cast iron cookware

Seasoning (also known as curing) just means filling up all the tiny holes and craters in the surface of the iron with grease/ oil to leave a smooth continuous non-stick surface.

If your pan isn’t non-stick, is rusty or hasn’t been seasoned yet, you’ll need to start by thoroughly cleaning the cast iron pan with a hot soapy water (this is fine to do before you season it, but not after).

I used lard to season my cast iron pan, but coconut oil should work well too. Firstly rub the oil all over the pan, but just lightly. Then rub off the oil with a paper towel.

Next, put the pan upside down in the oven (make sure you have a large tray on the bottom shelf to catch any drips). The oven will need to be at about 250 C (450F) and this stage will take about half an hour. Then, take the pan out of the oven and allow it to cool. You’ll want to repeat this process 3 or 4 times.

When you cook in your pan, you’re repeating this process, since the fats in your cooking will be continuing to fill any tiny holes in the surface again.

How to Clean Cast Iron After Each Use

Once your cast iron pan is properly seasoned, cleaning it becomes incredibly easy. In fact, cleaning it correctly is essential to maintaining that beautiful non-stick surface you've created. The key is to avoid soap and never soak your pan. Instead, clean it while it is still warm using hot water and a soft cloth or non-abrasive scrubber.

If there are bits stuck to the surface, try using coarse salt as a gentle abrasive. Sprinkle salt into the pan and scrub it with a damp paper towel or clean cloth. This will lift away food without damaging the seasoning layer.

Dry your pan thoroughly after cleaning to prevent any rust from forming. You can do this by placing it back on the stove over a low flame for a minute or two until all the moisture has evaporated. Once dry, add a tiny amount of oil to the surface, wipe off the excess with a paper towel, and store it away ready for next time.

What to Avoid With Cast Iron

There are a few things that can ruin a well-seasoned pan. Acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar can strip away the seasoning if left to simmer for too long. While short cooking times may not do much harm, it's better to use another pot for long tomato-based stews or similar dishes.

Also avoid metal scourers, harsh dishwashing detergents, and the dishwasher. These will all damage the seasoning and can lead to rust, which then requires a full re seasoning process to recover.

Storing Your Cast Iron Cookware

When your cookware is not in use, store it in a dry place. If you stack other pots or pans on top, place a paper towel between them to protect the surface. This also helps absorb any residual moisture, further protecting your pan from rust.

Some people store their cast iron with the lid slightly ajar or place a small wooden spoon inside to allow air circulation. This prevents any trapped moisture that can lead to rust or a metallic smell.

Rescuing a Rusty Pan

If your cast iron has been neglected and shows signs of rust, don't panic. It can usually be saved with a bit of elbow grease. Start by scrubbing off the rust using steel wool or a metal brush until you reach clean, bare metal. Then, follow the same seasoning steps listed earlier to restore it to a non-stick finish.

In extreme cases, you can even use a self-cleaning oven cycle to strip everything off the pan. Just be aware that this method can be harsh and may not be recommended for all types of cast iron cookware. Always research your specific item if you're unsure.

Cooking Tips for Cast Iron

Because cast iron retains heat so well, it's perfect for searing meat, sautéing vegetables, and baking cornbread or frittatas. Heat it slowly to avoid cracking and always preheat before adding food to prevent sticking.

Try to use a bit more fat or oil the first few times you cook, especially if you've just seasoned the pan. As it builds up more layers, it will become increasingly non-stick, even for eggs or fish.

One often-overlooked benefit of cooking with cast iron is the small amount of iron that leaches into your food, which can be helpful if you're prone to low iron levels. It’s a simple, natural way to support your health without pills or supplements.

Why Cast Iron is Perfect for Paleo Cooking

For those following a Paleo lifestyle, cast iron is one of the best choices for cookware. Unlike modern non-stick pans, it contains no harmful chemicals or coatings that can leach into your food. It allows you to cook over high heat and develop incredible flavours and textures that align with ancestral cooking methods.

Whether you’re browning grass-fed steak, roasting sweet potato wedges, or preparing a hearty one-pan breakfast, cast iron is up to the task. It’s versatile, rugged, and once you’ve broken it in, incredibly easy to cook with.

Second-hand Cast Iron: A Hidden Treasure

If you're hunting for cast iron, don't overlook garage sales, op shops, or online marketplaces. Many older pans, especially those made decades ago, are of superior quality to newer models. Brands like Griswold and Wagner are especially sought after for their craftsmanship and smooth cooking surfaces.

Even if a second-hand pan looks terrible, as long as it isn’t cracked, it can often be restored to near-new condition. Cleaning, seasoning, and a little patience can turn a rusty old find into your new kitchen favourite.

The Long-Term Payoff

With proper care, your cast iron pan can last a lifetime — or longer. Many families pass down cast iron cookware through generations. Each time you use it, you build on its history and improve its cooking surface. Unlike disposable non-stick pans, it gets better with age.

So whether you're a seasoned Paleo chef or just getting started, investing time into maintaining your cast iron is well worth it. It’s more than just a pan — it’s a link to traditional cooking methods, a healthier choice for your family, and a reminder that the best things in the kitchen don’t come with a non-stick coating.

Do you cook with cast iron? How do you find it? Is this the method you use to season your cookware?