from spin class to road cycling: my secret salt and stone deo hack

for athletes, naturally

When it comes to finding the perfect deodorant as a vegan athlete, the struggle is real. For anyone leading an active lifestyle, the need for a reliable, natural, and vegan option is paramount. Enter Salt & Stone’s Santal deodorant. This little gem is a game-changer. Not only is it vegan and aluminum-free, but it also works wonders in minimizing sweat. And the scent? Absolutely divine. It’s that kind of subtle yet captivating fragrance that leaves you feeling fresh all day long. It’s like a warm hug for your skin lingering under your nose; and you’ll feel confident going in for more hugs with pits (and bits) this yummy!

For those who are conscious about what they put on their bodies, finding a deodorant that ticks all the boxes can feel like hitting the jackpot. Santal Salt & Stone deodorant is crafted with natural ingredients, ensuring that you’re not exposing yourself to harmful chemicals. This aligns perfectly with my lifestyle and philosophy of embracing nature and wellness. I’ve tried countless natural deodorants over the years, and many have fallen short. But truly this one stands out – it’s effective, smells amazing, has an established cult following, and now potentially another demographic when I tell you the use I found for it!

Another bonus is the brand itself. Salt & Stone isn’t just about deodorant. Their sunscreen and shower wash are equally impressive, catering to an active lifestyle with products that genuinely work. It’s rare to find a brand that understands the balance of wellness, athleticism, and the essence of nature, but Salt & Stone nails the active lifestyle from pre to post workout regiments.

key ingredients and benefits

coconut oil

Coconut oil is a standout ingredient in this deodorant. It's renowned for its natural antibacterial properties in it’s lauric acid, which help to fight odor-causing bacteria. Plus, it's incredibly moisturizing, making it perfect for sensitive skin and sweaty, dark areas.

shea butter

Shea butter is deeply hydrating and soothing. It’s packed with vitamins A and E, which help to nourish and protect the skin, leaving it soft and smooth. I find these help with the friction of cycling big time.

arrowroot powder

Arrowroot powder is a natural absorbent, helping to keep you dry by absorbing excess moisture. It also has a smooth texture that feels great on the skin.

baking soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes odor effectively. It's a tried-and-true ingredient in many natural deodorants for its ability to keep you fresh.

essential oils

The essential oils in Santal Sat and Stone deodorant provide a delightful scent while also offering antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. These oils not only make you smell amazing but also contribute to overall skin health.

sensitively selected for sensitive areas

The combination of these natural ingredients makes Santal Sat and Stone deodorant both effective and gentle on the skin. Without aluminum, parabens, or synthetic fragrances, it offers a clean alternative that doesn’t compromise on performance. The moisturizing properties of coconut oil and shea butter ensure that your skin stays hydrated and soft, even after a long day of activity. This makes it perfect for anyone with sensitive skin or those looking to avoid the harsh chemicals found in many conventional deodorants.

some considerations

Now, as much as I love this deodorant, there are a couple of things to be mindful of. First, let’s talk about clothing. If you’re someone who wears a lot of black, be aware that this deodorant can leave non-permanent marks on your clothes when you're putting them on. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but something to keep in mind to avoid any morning surprises.

The bigger issue for me has been with white clothing. I wear a lot of white, and I discovered that the coconut oil in this deodorant can cause white clothes to look a bit grey over time. There are no sweat stains, but the grey tint can be noticeable. While this isn't a huge problem, it’s definitely worth noting if you’re like me and love your white tees and tanks.

It’s all about balance. The natural ingredients and the effectiveness of the deodorant make it worth it, but you have to be a bit strategic with your wardrobe choices. If you’ve got a black-tie event or love rocking white, just be a little cautious with application.

spin it to win it: for pits… and bits?

Here’s where things get interesting. On a particularly intense cycling day (jokes, it was just after a fresh shave), I found myself in need of a chamois cream. For those who don’t cycle, chamois cream is essential for long rides, especially for those of us with sensitive skin. I didn’t have any on hand, and in a pinch, I reached for my Santal Salt and Stone deodorant. I thought, why not? It’s natural, moisturizing, and smells great. Let’s give it a go.

I applied it and hit the road. To my surprise, it worked perfectly. It kept me feeling fresh and lubricated throughout the ride, even after a pit stop for an ocean dip. The deodorant doubled as an excellent chamois cream, providing comfort and preventing any chafing. It was a revelation.

This discovery opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me. Okay not really but at least I didn’t have to give it away: I wanted to even keep it around on my shelf just to smell as I walked by ahahaha. So not only does it keep me smelling good and sweat-free, but it also supports my active lifestyle in unexpected ways. It’s like having a secret weapon in my fitness arsenal.

So, while there are a couple of considerations with clothing, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. This deodorant is a versatile, multi-use product that’s become a staple in my routine. And the best part? It aligns perfectly with my ethos of embracing natural, effective solutions for an active and wellness-focused life. I love finding helpful new uses for things and this is no exception.

In summary, this deodorant is a standout product that fits seamlessly into my lifestyle. It’s effective, smells amazing, and even doubles as a chamois cream for those intense cycling days. If you’re looking for a natural deodorant that goes above and beyond, give it a try. Stay fresh, stay active, and try to look for new ways to spin things if they don’t work out the first time. There’s always a bright side, and there’s always a way.

where to get it?

I’m not personalllllly into the other scents (you may be - go off!) but you can find them and the whole Santal line in the Shop. Body wash, refillable body wash, hand cream, candles, body mist and more - so good.