Salt deodorant comes in several forms, from a solid rock to spray-on deodorant. Depending on the brand you choose, salt deodorant also comes in several scents, which contain added essential oils, or in a plain, unscented form. One very inexpensive option is to use baking soda as a deodorant. You may need to purchase several types of salt deodorant before finding one that works best for you and meets your needs.
The most basic salt deodorant is simply a piece of rock. To use it, you wet the rock and rub it under your armpits. For best results, you should use the rock right after bathing on dry armpits. The rock can also be applied to other areas of the body where odor is a problem, such as the feet.
Rock deodorant is commonly sold as Himalayan salt or crystal salt. Some types of crystal salt deodorant contain either potassium alum or ammonium alum, two types of inorganic salts. One type of salt deodorant, baking soda, is found commonly found in the kitchen. To use baking soda as a deodorant, mix a small amount with water and apply to the underarm. Salt deodorants block odor on the body by killing bacteria.
Some people find the rock form of deodorant to be rough or abrasive, particularly Himalayan salt. Most types of Himalayan salt rocks are also designed to be used as a pumice stone, which would explain why they abrade the skin in some cases. If not cared for properly, the crystal salt rock can develop a rough, jagged edge. To prevent a jagged edge from forming, you should wet the rock before use and then dry it thoroughly afterward.
If you are looking for a more traditional form of salt deodorant, you can find it in either a spray or roll-on. Spray deodorants are sold in pump bottles. They may be unscented and simply contain water and salt, or they may have essential oils added for scent.
Roll-on salt deodorants may be lighter weight than non-salt deodorants and anti-antiperspirants. They won’t leave a heavy residue on your skin or stain your clothing. As you don’t have to worry about wetting a rock or caring for the deodorant properly, it may be your best option if you want a natural deodorant that’s easy to use and take care of.
While salt deodorants prevent odor effectively in some people, you may want an added scent as well. Some deodorants are scented, usually using natural essential oils. Common scents include lavender, green or white tea, and chamomile.