All about: Kaia naturals’ takesumi detox deodorant

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, I went hard on eliminating any sort of unnecessary chemical use from my daily routine – and that included my deodorant. The aluminium found in many mainstream deodorant formulas has been what most has been cited in the headlines more than anything else, with claims that using deodorants or antiperspirants increase your risk of breast cancer floating around now for several years. As yet no convincing link has been established between the aforementioned aluminium content and cancer but hey, the less a chemical load I can put in my body, the better.

Over the years I’ve tried a few deodorants from the natural world, with varying degrees of success. I’m lucky that I’m not the sweatiest of people, because I have to say that since they first started arriving on the scene, most natural deodorants literally reeked of issues. They weren't particularly easy to use, nor were they able to keep you smelling fresh until the end of the day. But after years of research, cosmetic chemists kept chugging until they found formulas that are just as good as the other deodorants you know and love. 

One brand that is new to New Zealand and a major player on the natural deordorant scene is Kaia naturals, who created the first ever bamboo charcoal deodorant stick, the takesumi detox®. Takesumi (activated bamboo charcoal) is a time-honoured Japanese secret for odour control and detoxification and yep, it works. Charcoal acts like a magnet to pull toxins from sweat glands and neutralises underarm bacteria to eliminate odour, and their beautiful formula also comes with a range of natural scents. I took a mini-sized, Sakura scented version to California with me recently and it most definitely performed – even in 43 degree Palm Springs heat!

The takesumi detox is 100 per cent non-toxic, cruelty-free and vegan, and the high performance formula stays away from traditional natural deodorant ingredients, which often include irritating baking soda and coconut oil. There is no Aluminum, Propylene glycol, Parabens or Phthalates in there either, making it a no brainer if you’re looking to make the switch.

If you’re new to natural deodorant, you may go through a period of ‘detox’, which if you persevere with will deliver a great end result. A two to four-week transition period can be expected when changing from antiperspirant to natural deodorant, during which time underarm odour and moisture levels will normalize as your body adjusts. Studies show that antiperspirant users experience an increase in odorous bacteria in the underarm area when they stop using antiperspirant, as well as a little additional moisture, which is temporary. Fight on through and your body will thank you for it – I promise!

With an RRP of $39, Kaia naturals’ takesumi detox is available in six artisanal blends, depending on your taste. Sakura Blossom is pretty and spring-like, whilst Cold Pressed Rose is a delicate floral. Nordic Frost is cool and considered, whilst English Lime Mint is fresh and summer-y. Last up, Mandarin Pomelo is perfect for citrus lovers, and Black Oak & Bourbon is rich and woody.

Kaia naturals also offer The Underarm Bar, a handy add-on for sports lovers that transforms any natural deodorant into extra strength odour protection. Formulated with apple cider vinegar and charcoal, it basically eliminates bacteria on your skin BEFORE applying natural deodorant and has an RRP of $39.

To find a stockist near you, email info@beautycare.co.nz