Your Guide to Scented Deodorant

Typically, you turn to deodorant to help you smell good. This means scent can be an essential factor in selecting a product you're happy with. But with all the messaging out there, it can help to take a step back before you home in. For example, is scented deodorant bad for you? And where does fragrance come from, anyway? Read on to discover how this type of deodorant works, what goes into making you smell good, and the major scent categories you have to choose from.

The Basics of Scented Deodorant

Fragrance is added to deodorant to mask odor and help you smell your best—but where does it come from? Fragrances in many traditional products are created by synthetic compounds, which result from a series of chemical processes in a lab. Alternatively, scented deodorant products made with natural fragrances use naturally derived ingredients, like plant essential oils, to create the scents you enjoy. In addition to smelling great, some of the essential oils used in these deodorants, like lemongrass and lavender oils, also combat odor.

Natural fragrance is typically extracted from natural sources and processed in a way that keeps the environment and sustainability in mind. These processes may include distillation, CO2 extraction, cold pressing, and fermentation.

The 411 on Fragrance

When shopping for deodorant, explore various scents to see what you connect with most. There are many scent profiles, from flowery to earthy. The choice depends on your personal preference, but you may be surprised at what appeals to you. Here are a few common scent categories:

Floral

Calming and soft, floral fragrances tend to be some of the most popular scents for deodorants. Scents like lavender and rose are especially common, and can make for a fresh or sweet aroma depending on the type of flower.

Fruity

Scents based on fruits make a great alternative if you don't love floral fragrances. Citrus fruits like mandarin and lemon provide a zesty, refreshing aroma, while sweeter fruits like apricots offer a compromise between fruity and floral.

Earthy

If you're looking for something a little more rugged that reminds you of taking a walk through the woods on a crisp fall day, earthy scents might be the right choice for you. Scents like cedar and sandalwood can provide that deep, rich aroma of nature that brings you back to your roots no matter how hectic your day gets.

Choosing Your Perfect Scented Deodorant

If you typically shop for natural products and take time to read labels, you might wonder: Is scented deodorant bad for you? The short answer is no. While some people prefer fragrance-free or unscented deodorants, it comes down to personal preference and what works best for your body.

The same goes for antiperspirants versus natural deodorants (formulas without aluminum). To ensure you feel comfortable with what's in your deodorant, look for products made from naturally derived ingredients that you can feel good about. Then, simply follow your nose to the scent that's right for you.

To learn more about your options for feeling fresh and confident, check out the benefits of natural deodorant.

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