A Natural Deodorant that Won't Leave You Smelling like a Hippie

There's been a big fuss the last couple of years over anti-perspirant deodorants and whether or not they're harmful. There have even been studies to investigate whether the aluminum used in most antiperspirants is a potential cause for breast cancer. They think not, but what I wonder is why risk it, when there's Tom's of Maine natural long-lasting deodorant in Lavender? It works as well as any other deodorant I've used, and its ingredients are all-natural to top it off.

Why it's great: Tom's of Maine deodorant uses natural botanicals to fight odor in three different ways. Zinc ricinoleate, which is derived from castor beans, absorbs and neutralizes odors. Then the antimicrobial properties of lichen and coriander naturally neutralize bacteria (which we all know is the original source of underarm odor-yuck!) Additionally, essential oil of lavender gives the deodorant a lovely scent that smells as good as, dare I say it-perfume. In the paper insert on the back of the stick, Tom's of Maine lists each and every ingredient in their deodorant, notes its purpose, and also the natural source of each ingredient. That way you know exactly what you're putting on your armpits.

Benefits: It's an all-natural deodorant that's free of synthetic compounds, and does not contain the aluminum that many anti-perspirant deodorants contain. And for the environmentally conscious consumers out there, Tom and Kate Chappell, the founders of Tom's of Maine, sponsor their very own Rivers Awareness Program, and provide a searchable database on their website to help you find local volunteer opportunities. Another great feature of Tom's of Maine deodorant is that it's the first deodorant in the market that's made of recyclable plastic. Talk about a company with a conscience!

Tips: This product is a deodorant, not an anti-perspirant. That being said, I'll admit that I still slap on an anti-perspirant deodorant when I go to the gym. I don't particularly like sweating right through my t-shirts. But for everyday use, Tom's of Maine natural deodorant is absolutely great; I don't feel the slightest bit smelly at the end of the day. Tom's of Maine proves with their long-lasting deodorant that you don't have to smell like a hippie to be an eco-friendly consumer, and I'm very grateful for that!

Cost: About $5, depending on your local retailer.

Where to find it: At your local grocery or drug store. If you don't find it with the regular deodorants, check in the natural products section of the store. Also available at www.drugstore.com