For a long time, switching to natural deodorant felt like one of those things I should do, but never quite got around to. I’d heard the same things many of us have: that it doesn’t work, that you’ll smell, that there’s an “adjustment period” no one really explains. Honestly, it just sounded like a lot of effort for very little reward. But the more I started paying attention to what I was putting in, and on, my body, the harder it became to ignore that deodorant, a product I use every single day, was still coming in excessive plastic packaging, made with ingredients I couldn't pronounce, and often left my skin irritated. So, I finally made the switch. What I didn’t expect was how much that small change would ripple into something bigger, something that felt less like a compromise and more like a kind of alignment. With myself, and with the planet. ARRAN Naturals The brand I’ve fallen in love with is ARRAN Naturals. Born from the Scottish fragrance company ARRAN Sense of Scotland, their natural care line comes from the Isle of Arran, a place rooted in nature, balance, and restoration, and an island I now look out to across the water from my home in Troon. But what really drew me in was their ethos: simplicity, sustainability, and wellbeing. The deodorant I’ve grown to love, Calm, isn’t just a functional product. It’s become a small, grounding moment in my day, a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and take care of myself. With its soft, soothing blend of my favourite scents, lavender and chamomile, it instantly puts me at ease and helps set a more mindful tone for whatever’s ahead. It’s made with 99.9% natural-origin ingredients, is completely cruelty-free, vegan, and packaged in a way that doesn’t ask the planet to pay the price for my convenience. In fact, it’s 100% recyclable cardboard! The transition Now, let me be honest: switching to natural deodorant does come with a few questions. Will I sweat more? (Yes, but that’s a good thing. Your body is meant to sweat.) Will it stop odour? (If it’s formulated well, absolutely. ARRAN uses zinc-based ingredients and magnesium compounds that neutralise odour without disrupting your skin’s balance.) And what about irritation? This was my biggest concern, but with ingredients like milk thistle, shea butter, and seaweed extract, I’ve actually found my underarms to feel softer, calmer, and less reactive than ever. No more itchy post-shave situations. No more red patches. Just comfort. A small change with a big impact I used to think natural products meant giving something up. But what I’ve found is the opposite. Since using ARRAN Naturals, I’ve felt more connected to the things I value: cleaner choices, sustainable habits, and mindful moments in the middle of a chaotic day. And here’s the best part: their deodorants aren’t just another “natural” option. It’s one that works and feels good to use. The Awaken Deodorant recently won Gold for Plastic Free Innovation at the Veggie Awards, something I found out after falling in love with the range, which made me trust it even more. A note for anyone thinking about switching If you’ve been considering going natural but keep hesitating, I get it. I was there too. But take it from someone who’s made the change and isn’t going back, it’s worth it. Not just for your body, but for your peace of mind. For the planet. For a slower, simpler way of taking care of yourself. This World Environment Day feels like the perfect time to begin. Whether you're just starting your low-waste journey or looking to make your routine a little more conscious, your deodorant might be the easiest, and most empowering, place to start. Ready to make the switch? Explore our full range of Natural Deodorants and take the first step towards a more mindful, sustainable routine. Written by Laura Young Follow her journey towards conscious living on Instagram: @lesswastelaura
