Switching From Native to Something Gentler: What to Know

If your deodorant has started to sting, burn, or make your underarms red, you’re not alone. Many people switch to natural deodorants like Native hoping for something cleaner and better for their skin. But when irritation shows up, it can feel confusing and frustrating. The good news? It’s not your fault, and you don’t have to give up on natural deodorant altogether. You might just need a gentler formula that works with your skin not against it.

Why Native Might Be Causing Irritation

Native is a popular choice in the world of natural deodorants. It's free from aluminum, which is great. But if you’ve noticed burning, itching, or redness, you might be dealing with a common issue: your skin doesn’t love one or more of the ingredients in the formula.

Here are a few common culprits that can lead to natural deodorant causing irritation:

• Baking soda: It’s a strong odor-fighter, but it can throw off your skin’s pH and cause burning or bumps
• Fragrances: Even natural essential oils can be irritating, especially if used in high amounts
• Coconut oil or shea butter: These are great moisturizers but can clog pores for some people

So if you’re dealing with deodorant burns underarms, it’s likely a formula mismatch, not a personal failure.

How to Tell If It’s a Reaction or Just an Adjustment

Switching to a new product can come with a short adjustment period. But how do you know if what you’re feeling is normal or a sign to stop? Here’s a quick guide:

• Mild stinging or tingling: This may be part of the adjustment, especially if your old deodorant had antiperspirant
• These symptoms point to irritation or an allergic reaction
• Persistent discomfort: If it lasts more than a few days, it’s time to try something different

Your skin is your best guide. If it’s telling you something’s not right, listen.

Tips for a Smoother Transition

Ready to switch from Native deodorant to something gentler? Here’s how to make the switch easier on your skin.

1. Do a Patch Test First

Before applying a new deodorant all over, test it on a small area of your inner arm. This helps you avoid a full-blown reaction. Patch testing deodorant only takes a day or two and can save you a lot of discomfort.

2. Give Your Skin a Break

If your underarms are already irritated, take a few days off from deodorant. Wash gently with warm water and let your skin breathe. You can apply a soothing balm or aloe vera to help it heal.

3. Transition Slowly

Start with a small amount of your new deodorant. Use it every other day at first, then build up as your skin adjusts. A slow start gives your skin time to adapt without becoming overwhelmed.

What to Look for in a Gentle Deodorant

When choosing a gentle deodorant for sensitive skin, your goal is to reduce potential triggers while still staying fresh. Look for formulas that are:

• Baking soda-free: This is often the biggest irritant for sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free or low-fragrance: Less scent means fewer chances for irritation
• Made with magnesium hydroxide: A gentle ingredient that helps neutralize odor without upsetting your skin’s balance

These are the kinds of non-irritating deodorant options that support your skin, not stress it out.

Ingredients to Avoid in Deodorant If You’re Sensitive

Some ingredients can be especially harsh on sensitive underarms. If you’ve had reactions in the past, try avoiding the following:

• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate): High pH can disrupt your skin barrier
• Alcohol-based ingredients: These can dry out and sting
• Heavy essential oils: Tea tree, citrus, and peppermint can be too strong for many people
• Fragrance blends: These are often not fully disclosed and can trigger allergies

Understanding the ingredients to avoid in deodorant can help you make better choices for your skin.

Finding the Best Deodorant for Irritation

So what’s the best deodorant for irritation? It depends on your skin, but here are some features to look for:

• pH-balanced: Helps keep your skin barrier healthy
• Simple ingredients: Fewer ingredients means fewer chances for a reaction
• Supports sensitive skin: Look for soothing ingredients like magnesium, aloe vera, or oatmeal

MAGS Skin deodorant is designed with this in mind. It’s free from baking soda, uses magnesium to stop odor, and is tested on sensitive skin not just “normal” skin. It’s a great example of a non-irritating deodorant option that works without the burn.

What If You’re Allergic to Deodorant?

Sometimes, it’s not just irritation it’s a real allergy. If you’ve had intense reactions like swelling, blisters, or peeling, talk to a dermatologist. They can help you identify the trigger and suggest deodorant allergy remedies.

In the meantime, you can:

• Use barrier creams: These create a layer between your skin and the deodorant
• Apply deodorant to dry skin: Wet skin can increase absorption of irritating ingredients
• Rotate products: Changing formulas every few months can reduce buildup of irritation

Quick Takeaways

• If your natural deodorant is causing irritation, it’s likely due to a formula mismatch not your skin being “too sensitive”
• Deodorant burns underarms are often linked to baking soda, fragrance, or alcohol
• When you switch from Native deodorant, look for magnesium-based, baking soda-free formulas
• Always patch test deodorant before full use to avoid surprise reactions
• Choose gentle deodorant for sensitive skin with simple, soothing ingredients
• Know the ingredients to avoid in deodorant if you’ve had issues before

Your Skin Deserves Better

If your current deodorant is causing more harm than help, don’t give up. There’s a better fit out there. Finding it is about knowing your skin, reading labels, and giving yourself grace during the transition. MAGS Skin is here to support that journey with formulas made for real, sensitive skin. Because your underarms shouldn’t have to suffer just to smell fresh.