Every time I tried a new “natural deodorant,” I ended up with red, raw underarms – and worst of all, I still smelled like sweat by midday.
Then one skincare-savvy friend pointed out the ingredient I’d overlooked: baking soda.
That’s when my journey began – here’s what changed everything.
When “Natural” Feels Nothing of the Sort
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is often used in deodorants to neutralize odor and absorb moisture.
But your underarm skin is delicate – and almost always acidic with pH around 4.5 to 5.5.
Baking soda, however, is alkaline, and raising your skin pH to dangerously high levels (like 8–9) can strip protective oils and irritate the acid mantle that guards against bacteria and dryness (honestlyphresh, lisaliseblog.com, honestlyphresh, Vogue, Wikipedia).
For women managing PCOS or hormonal imbalance, even a small irritant can throw off fragile cycles, spike cortisol, or trigger inflammation.
Why The Reactions Are Real, and Research‑Backed
a. Baking Soda = pH Chaos
A 2024 review found that even small doses under tested conditions can cause dermatitis – especially on uneven or recently shaved skin – a scenario familiar to many natural-deodorant users (Corpus Naturals).
b. Acne, Streaks & Odor Loops
When your pH is off, your skin can’t defend itself. Bacterial balance shifts. You might smell more rather than less, and break out more instead of less.
c. Cumulative Load & Hormones
Dermatologists warn that every chemical under your arms is absorbed. Combined with EDCs from cosmetics or plastics, it can heighten insulin resistance, worsen hormonal imbalance, and trigger PCOS flare-ups (Mommypotamus, Earth911).
So yes – baking soda might deactivate odor, but at the expense of your skin and sensitive hormonal health.
The Turnaround: How I Made the Switch
Personal Story: My Breakout Breakthrough
After two rash-filled weeks, I swapped baking soda deodorant for a gentler option. I patch tested – a pea-sized dab on the inner arm – and waited 24 hours. When no red dots appeared, I tried it on my underarms for three days in a row. My underarm irritation vanished, and breakouts cleared within the week.
No more smell surprises at midday. No more itching. I finally felt clean – and comfortable in my own skin.
What Dermatologists & Experts Agree On
- Dr. Hadley King (dermatologist): Baking soda irritates skin due to its alkalinity and abrasiveness. Gentle absorption options, like zinc ricinoleate or clay, reduce irritation risk (Real Simple).
- Healthline & self.com: Baking soda disrupts pH leading to dryness, inflammation, and even premature wrinkles with repeated use (Byrdie).
- Allure & Vogue: Share countless stories of women ditching baking-soda deodorants after cycles of irritation, choosing alternatives better suited to sensitive skin types (Allure, Vogue).
Your Guide: How to Transition Without the Worry
Step 1: Patch-Test & Wait
Apply a little product on the inner arm. Watch for 24 hours for itch or redness.
Step 2: Switch During Low-Stress Days
Give your microbiome some time to reset. Take it easy: wear breathable fabrics, and air-dry fully after washing.
Step 3: Reapply Sparingly
Stick with pea-sized amounts. Overuse of even natural activators can provoke friction or irritation.
Step 4: Support Your Routine
Use gentle soaps, hydrating moisturizers, and stay hydrated. A balanced diet helps too.
Step 5: Be Consistent
Your skin needs 2–3 weeks to stabilize. More fragrance won’t save your pH – consistency will.
Why Women with PCOS & Hormonal Imbalance Benefit Even More
- Women with PCOS often have inflamed skin and insulin resistance; baking soda’s disruption compounds the frequency of breakouts.
- Hormonal wellness thrives on balanced routines; the chemical load from harsh underarm ingredients takes a toll you’ve not signed up for.
When you choose a non-chemical deodorant and a formula made for deodorant for everyone – especially those managing PCOS or sensitive skin – you’re choosing care that’s inclusive, compassionate, and rooted in science.
Ingredients to Prioritize (and Avoid)
| Avoid | Choose instead |
|---|---|
|
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) |
Clay, shea butter, zinc ricinoleate |
|
Fragrance / “parfum” |
Essential-oil based scents & transparent labels |
|
Aluminum salts |
Natural odor neutralizers only |
Real Voices from Our Community
Real testimonial:
“Mehn what did you put in this deo… Still smelling fresh at this time…”
Real testimonial:
“My pits have never smelled this good at the end of the day…”
Paraphrased community feedback:
“My breakout-free days started when I stopped baking soda deodorants.”
How We Found a Safe Switch
We crafted it intentionally: Sisuprime Prime Deodorant – a baking soda–free, aluminum‑free, non-toxic formula made for everyone who sweats, especially those with PCOS, sensitive skin, or anyone prioritizing wellness.
Made with clay, beeswax, and shea butter – ingredients that nourish, protect, and neutralize odor – without stripping your skin barrier.
You’re Not Switching for Style - You’re Switching for Health
Don’t see choosing Sisuprime as a mere trend – see it as a daily affirmation that your body deserves respect.
It’s a choice rooted in science, community feedback, and a belief in a healthier tomorrow.
Buy Sisuprime Prime Deodorant here and experience a freshness that respects both your skin and your hormones.
We'd Love to Hear From You
Have baking soda deodorants ever caused you irritation or breakouts? What cues did your body give you?
Please share below – your insight could guide someone else toward comfort and clarity.
Sources & References
- Baking soda and skin pH disruption – Healthline, 2019 (Healthline, theblackstuff.com, saltair.com, Tweak India, Play Pits, Wikipedia)
- Baking soda irritation and dermatitis risks – Self.com, 2021 (Healthline)
- Expert caution about baking soda mask use – Byrdie (Dermatologist review) (Byrdie)
- Natural deodorant recipes and sensitive skin warning – Allure, 2018 (Allure)
- Deodorant vs antiperspirant, dermatologist guidance – Real Simple, 2022 (Real Simple)
- Health hazards of phthalates and parabens – Earth911 (Earth911)
- Baking soda vs pH barrier review – Corpus Naturals & SaltAir blogs (Corpus Naturals)
Study of skin irritation by topical sodium bicarbonate – 2024 review (jintegrativederm.org)