Why Your Natural Deodorant Might Be Causing a Rash (And How to Fix It)

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve made the switch to natural deodorant (yay for healthier choices!), but now you’re dealing with an unexpected and frustrating side effect—underarm rash. I see you, and I know how discouraging this can be. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a holistic, Ayurvedic approach to help soothe your skin and get your pits feeling happy again.

Why Does Natural Deodorant Cause a Rash?

First things first—why is this happening? You made the conscious decision to ditch harsh, chemical-laden antiperspirants, so why is your skin rebelling? Well, there are a few reasons:

1. Baking Soda Sensitivity – Many natural deodorants contain baking soda as a sweat and odor fighter, but it can be too alkaline for some skin types, causing irritation, redness, and a rash.

2. Detox Period – If you’ve recently switched from conventional antiperspirants, your body might be purging aluminum and toxins, which can lead to temporary irritation.

3. Essential Oil Overload – While essential oils smell divine and offer antibacterial benefits, some can be too strong and cause sensitivity, especially if applied to freshly shaved skin.

4. Friction & Moisture – Underarms are a sensitive area, and constant movement, sweat, or tight clothing can aggravate the skin.

Ayurveda’s Wisdom on Skin Irritations

Ayurveda teaches us that our skin is a reflection of what’s happening inside. An underarm rash can be a sign of excess Pitta dosha, which governs heat and inflammation in the body. When aggravated, Pitta can cause skin irritations, redness, and sensitivity. To restore balance, we need cooling, soothing, and nourishing remedies.

How to Heal an Underarm Rash Naturally

1. Pause & Assess

If you notice a rash, stop using the deodorant immediately. Give your underarms a break for a few days and switch to gentle, fragrance-free alternatives.

2. Cool It Down with Aloe & Rose Water

Aloe vera gel is a go-to Ayurvedic remedy for soothing inflamed skin. Apply fresh aloe or a clean, store-bought gel to the rash twice a day. Rose water, known for its cooling properties, can also help calm irritation—just spritz some on a cotton pad and dab gently.

3. Turmeric & Sandalwood Paste for Healing

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herb used in Ayurveda for centuries. Mix a pinch of turmeric with sandalwood powder and rose water to form a paste. Apply to the affected area for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cool water. This combo helps reduce redness and promotes healing.

4. Coconut Oil & Ghee for Deep Nourishment

Coconut oil is naturally antimicrobial and helps to restore moisture to irritated skin. But if you really want to give your underarms a luxurious treat, ghee is the ultimate Ayurvedic skin healer. Ghee deeply nourishes, repairs, and balances the skin’s natural microbiome. Apply a thin layer of either coconut oil or ghee before bed and let your skin drink it up overnight.

5. Wear Breathable Fabrics

Tight synthetic clothing can trap moisture and make irritation worse. Stick to soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to allow your skin to heal and breathe.

6. Detox with Triphala & Neem

If you suspect your body is going through a detox reaction, consider taking Triphala—a blend of three fruits known to gently cleanse the system and balance digestion. Neem, a natural antibacterial herb, can also be taken internally (as a supplement) or applied as a paste to soothe the rash.

Switching to the Right Deodorant

Not all natural deodorants are created equal! If your skin is sensitive, opt for a formula without baking soda and harsh essential oils. That’s exactly why we created GHEE Deodorant—it’s free from baking soda, made with deeply nourishing ghee, and designed for even the most sensitive skin.

What Makes GHEE Deodorant Special?

• Ghee-infused formula to restore and protect the skin barrier

• No baking soda, making it gentle for sensitive underarms

• Ayurvedic botanicals that work in harmony with your body

• Minimalist, non-toxic ingredients for safe, effective odor control

Preventing Future Underarm Sensitivities

If you want to keep your underarms happy long-term, here are a few tips:

1. Shave Mindfully – Shaving can cause microtears in the skin. Try shaving at night and applying ghee or aloe instead of deodorant right after.

2. Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water and cooling herbal teas like mint and coriander to balance Pitta dosha.

3. Exfoliate Gently – Use a mild sugar or oat scrub once a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent buildup.

4. Rotate Your Deodorant – Give your skin a break by switching between deodorant and a fragrance-free moisturizer on certain days.

Embracing Your Natural Beauty

Switching to natural deodorant is one of the best things you can do for your body, but like any transition, it takes patience and the right products. If you’re experiencing an underarm rash, know that it’s just a temporary roadblock on your journey to healthier, happier skin. By embracing Ayurveda’s wisdom, soothing your skin with nourishing ingredients, and choosing the right deodorant, you’ll be back to feeling fresh and comfortable in no time.

Have you experienced an underarm rash from natural deodorant? Let’s chat in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experience and help in any way I can!