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And Just Like That... I Found My Perfect Deodorant

  • Writer: Pages and Beyond
    Pages and Beyond
  • 4 days ago
  • 4 min read




If you’re looking to switch to a natural, plant-based deodorant, I want to share my honest experience with Humble deodorant, the only natural brand that truly works for me. I’ve tried many options over the years, and I hope this review helps you find something that fits your lifestyle.


Meet Humble: The Deodorant That Gets Me (and My Pits)

Humble is an all-natural, plant-based deodorant. I prefer the version in the cardboard applicator for its sustainability, but they also offer plastic options if that’s your preference. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, it consistently blocks odor for me (even though, like all natural deodorants, it isn’t an antiperspirant and won’t stop sweating). I use it morning and night, swiping up and down under each arm, and one applicator usually lasts me 1-2 months. I typically buy 3-4 at a time, so I never run out. Plus, the smaller size makes it easy to travel with.


The Truth About Sweat, Stains, and Staying Fresh

Humble works to block odor without causing irritation or reactions on my skin. While the natural oils in the product can leave some residue or stains on shirts (especially when you sweat), these come out with the right stain remover. (I’ve shared a natural stain remover in a previous blog; refer to that for tips on treating deodorant stains.)


A Walk Through the Natural Deodorant Aisle: My Trials and Triumphs

I’ve tried several other natural brands:

  • Toms of Maine: Didn’t work well for me, needed frequent reapplication, and still didn’t cover odor.

  • Schmidt’s: Unfortunately, this didn’t mask the odor even with multiple applications.

  • Native: Worked for a short period but lost effectiveness after a few months.

  • Crystal Mineral: Similar to Native initially, okay, but not a long-term solution for me.

Everyone’s body chemistry is different, so your results may vary. For me, Humble is the only natural deodorant that blocks odor consistently, without irritation.


Confessions of a Former Conventional Deodorant Shopper

Before switching to natural products, I used several conventional brands:

  • Dove, Sure, Secret, Degree: These worked for odor and sweat, especially during sports. I stopped using them in the early 2000s as I moved toward cleaner ingredients.

  • Arm & Hammer Essentials: This was my first step toward more natural options; it worked well for a while, but I ultimately wanted a fully plant-based choice.

Brand 

Type

Aluminum-Free?

Avg. Price per Oz (Est.)

Lasting Power

Primary Health/Risk Consideration

Humble

Plant-based

Yes

~$4.00 - $7.00

Varies, often all-day (8-24 hrs)

Baking soda/essential oil skin irritation risk; some formulas are magnesium-based

Tom's of Maine

Plant-based

Yes

~$2.22 - $2.66

Up to 24 hrs odor protection

Generally gentle, but some users report issues with certain ingredients

Native

Plant-based

Yes

~$6.00 - $7.50

Effective for many users (8-24 hrs)

Can cause yellow staining on clothes; some report skin irritation from baking soda formulas

Schmidt's

Plant-based

Yes

~$4.50 - $7.00

Strong odor control for a natural option

The original formula is gritty and can cause severe rashes for sensitive skin; the sensitive skin version is better

Crystal Mineral Deodorant

Plant-based

Yes

~$2.30 - $4.00

Lasts all day for odor, but no sweat control

Made of mineral salts; generally well-tolerated, with very minimal residue

Dove

Conventional

No (in most lines)

~$0.50 - $1.00

24 to 48+ hours (antiperspirant)

Contains aluminum salts and synthetic fragrances; generally safe, but some irritation risk

Sure

Conventional

No (antiperspirant)

~$0.50 - $1.00

24 to 48+ hours (antiperspirant)

Contains aluminum salts; known for strong odor/wetness protection

Arm & Hammer

Conventional

Varies

~$0.50 - $1.00

24+ hours

Baking soda-based formulas can be highly effective but also irritating for some; the conventional line has aluminum

Secret

Conventional

No (in most lines)

~$0.50 - $1.00

24 to 72 hours (antiperspirant/clinical)

A leading US brand known for powerful wetness blocking with aluminum

Degree

Conventional

No (antiperspirant)

~$0.50 - $1.00

24 to 72 hours (antiperspirant/clinical)

Known for motion-activated sweat control technology; uses aluminum salts

Why I Broke Up with Conventional Deodorant

As I became more ingredient-conscious in the early to mid-2000s, I moved away from conventional brands. There is ongoing debate and research about the risks of conventional versus natural deodorants, but my goal is to live as naturally as possible and feel good about what I’m putting on my body.


Where to Find Your Own Humble Happily Ever After

Humble deodorant is available on their official website and at various health-focused retailers. I recommend checking their site for the latest options and availability. Humble is also available on Amazon if you want fast shipping. I always recommend buying direct when you can, but this link helps support my work at no extra cost, and if that’s easier for you.


The Last Swipe: My Natural Deodorant Love Story

If you’re looking for a plant-based deodorant that actually works, I highly recommend giving Humble a try. It blocks odor, smells great, and aligns with a more natural lifestyle. If you want tips on removing deodorant stains, don’t forget to check out my previous post about my favorite natural stain remover!



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