Sweating has its benefits—removing toxins from the body and helping cool the skin. However, most people aren’t willing to bear the social ramifications of stinky armpits. There are many reasons why you might need to use an alternative type of deodorant. You may have a sensitivity to the popular brands, or you may find that due to hormonal changes, you can no longer tolerate your favorite brand.

There are many folks who are uncomfortable with the idea putting aluminum chlorohydrate, formaldehyde, and ammonia in their armpits. To date, there is no research that shows a definitive connection between antiperspirants and breast cancer; however, unproven doesn’t mean untrue. For those wishing to err on the side of caution, there are some alternatives.

The simplest recipe I’ve run across is to just pour a little baking soda in the palm of your hand and squeeze in a bit of lemon juice. Mix it into a paste and smear it under your armpit.

If you’re not into DIY antiperspirants, LUSH makes some great all natural deodorants/antiperspirants with a baking soda base. My favorite is the Aromacreme which has almond oil, shea butter, and lychee fruits. A small piece applied with fingertips will unleash the anti-bacterial essential oils to do their magic.

•Alba Botanica Deodorant Tea Tree
•Jason Natural Womans Health Wild Yam Deodorant
•Kiss My Face Active Enzyme Deodorant Stick

Another option is deodorant crystals. The crystals are simple mineral salts that inhibit the bacterial growth that causes odor. The benefit is that the crystal will last for years. To use them, rub the crystal into your underarms right out of the shower and let it dry naturally.

In general, antiperspirants are more harmful than deodorants, especially those containing aluminum and parabens, which may increase the risk of breast cancer. There is much research that shows these chemicals are easily absorbed into the tissue around the underarm, especially if they are applied right after shaving.

Like natural skin care products, you should avoid anything containing fragrance (phthalates), parabens, or sodium lauryl (laureth) sulfate. Phtalates have been found to produce cancer of the liver and birth defects in lab animals, but they sound much more innocuous if you call them fragrance on the label. Note that the FDA does not require the ingredients in fragrances to be listed because they are considered trade secrets.

If you like fragrances, choose a deodorant/antiperspirant that uses natural essential oils for fragrance. Pardon me for stating the obvious, but keep in mind that deodorants stop odor, not sweat. Likewise, antiperspirants slow sweat down, but not odor. Most people go for a combination product.