Are you looking for a natural alternative to traditional deodorant? And, ahem, are you looking for one that actually works? Have you tried a crystal stone?
I’ve been meaning to write a post about this magic stone for a while now. The thing is, I wanted to wait until I used it for at least a year to make sure it really worked so that I could promote it wholeheartedly.
There’s no way I was going to let you out into the world with stinky pits because I said something works and it doesn’t.
I’ve been there. (Sorry, Nick.)
I’ve tried a number of organic, all-natural deodorants.
I’ve wiped paste-like concoctions onto my underarms with the sneaking suspicion that I just paid $5 for half an ounce of baking soda mixed with coconut oil and a couple drops of essential oils (more on that in a bit). I’ve tried hand-made local stuff that worked pretty well but had shoddy packaging. Natural deodorant that melted in hot temperatures and completely crystallized in colder climes.
Most of these natural deodorant alternatives are okay, but not great.
Then I tried the crystal stone.
What is a natural crystal stone?
It’s simple. It’s a small block of a salt-like substance that you rub on your underarms when you’re just out of the shower (it needs to be wet to work) that prevents odor-producing bacteria from forming as you go about your day. It dries completely after you apply it and does not leave any type of residue on your clothing. It will keep you smell-free for a good 12 hours. After that, you’ve got to either shower or wash your pits and reapply. It only works on completely clean skin.
^ these are the claims.
And I have to say, after using it for a year now, probably longer, I’m a huge fan.
I wasn’t able to find it in a store anywhere here (you might have some luck at a local apothecary or health food store), so I ordered it from Amazon for $5. I was a bit peeved to find it came wrapped in plastic with a silly little plastic holding dish.
When I first started using it, I had been off traditional store-bought deodorant for a while. I was using natural alternatives primarily (see above) and so, I felt like there was still a period of adjustment where I smelled kinda bad only a couple hours after using the crystal. If you’re going to go from traditional store-bought deodorant to the crystal stone, there will probably be a longer transitional period.
Over time, I think my body has adjusted and now I don’t smell as *strongly* as I used to. Unless I go longer than about a day without a proper shower, in which case, all bets are off. 😛
Some additional notes
One thing to note about this deodorant alternative is that it is not an antiperspirant. You are going to sweat with this. But antiperspirants aren’t good for your body anyway and chances are, if you’re reading this, you’re looking for a cleaner, less harmful alternative to put on your body anyway.
The best part about the crystal stone though?
It lasts forever. I use this thing multiple times per week and it hasn’t noticeably shrunk in size. Tiny pieces have broken off but nothing huge. For only five bucks and something I don’t have schlep to the store every few months to replace – I’m sold.
Lastly, I do use a secondary homemade deodorant during those times I go a little longer without a shower and it works like a charm. It’s three ingredients. I’ll be doing a second post with that gem of a recipe, so stay tuned!
Have you used a crystal stone before? Has it worked for you or not? I’m so curious to know!
Leave me a comment with any questions you have on this post.
