Viva La Body

Let's break this down a little! Both aluminium and magnesium hydroxide are commonly used in deodorants for their ability to help control odour, but they work in slightly different ways.

Aluminium based antiperspirants:
Aluminium based compounds (such as aluminium chlorohydrate or aluminium zirconium) are commonly used in conventional antiperspirants. They work
by temporarily blocking sweat ducts, thereby reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the skin's surface. This helps to reduce perspiration.

Magnesium Hydroxide:
Magnesium hydroxide, on the other hand, is often used in natural deodorants as an alternative to aluminium compounds. It doesn't block
sweat ducts like aluminium based compounds. Instead, it works by
adjusting the pH of the skin, creating an environment that is less hospitable to the bacteria that cause odour. It helps to neutralise odour causing bacteria rather than blocking sweat.

In summary, while aluminium based compounds in antiperspirants primarily work by blocking sweat ducts, magnesium
hydroxide in natural deodorants operates by neutralising odor causing bacteria through its pH adjusting properties. This means that while magnesium hydroxide won't prevent you from sweating, it can help to keep odour at bay.

Another common ingredient used, especially in natural deodorants is Bicarbonate (Bi Carb or Baking Soda).

Bicarbonate (Baking Soda/Bi Carb) Containing Deodorants:
Baking soda, bi carb or sodium bicarbonate, is an ingredient commonly found in natural deodorants. It works by neutralising odour causing bacteria due to its alkaline nature. Baking soda can also help to absorb moisture.

Why Bicarbonate (Baking Soda) Can Cause Irritations: Bicarbonate based deodorants can sometimes cause skin irritation for a few reasons:

Alkalinity:
Baking soda is alkaline whilst our skin has a slightly acidic pH. Using
a highly alkaline substance like baking soda on sensitive skin can
disrupt this natural balance, leading to irritation, redness, and
discomfort.

Abrasive Texture:
Baking soda has a gritty texture, which can be abrasive on the skin.
This abrasiveness may lead to irritation, especially in people with
sensitive skin.

Overuse:
Using too much baking soda in a deodorant formulation can increase the likelihood of irritation. Some people may be more sensitive to higher concentrations of baking soda.

Pre Existing Skin Conditions:
Individuals with pre existing skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis may be more susceptible to irritation from baking soda.

Magnesium hydroxide is less likely to cause irritation compared to baking soda because it is less alkaline.

Remember that everyone's skin is different and not everyone will experience irritation from baking soda. What works for one person may not work for another. Additionally, individual skin
sensitivities may play a role in how well each ingredient is tolerated.
Finding the right deodorant for your skin may involve some trial and error. It's also a good idea to perform a patch test before using a new product to check for any adverse reactions.

Unfortunately not at the moment. The good news is that we do have a few international stockists. Send us an email and we will try to put you in touch with them!

Simply pat dry your bars after use, leave well drained & sit them on our bamboo dishes to dry. Also the product boxes are designed to last the life time of the product and are great for travel. Simply pat dry and place back in the box between use. We don't believe that you need a special tin/container (just another product to fill the world) to travel with our products. Be creative with upcycling & use what you already have!

We are based in tropical Larrakia Country, Darwin Australia! And, it is the best!!!

Viva La Body is proud to create and operate on Larrakia Country. We acknowledge the Larrakia People as the Traditional Owners of the Darwin region and pay our deepest respect to Larrakia Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to a positive future for the Aboriginal Community and are grateful for its rich cultural heritage and the blessings it brings to us all.

We write to you with a mix of heaviness and disappointment, yet also with a resolute dedication to transparency. Our cherished community deserve nothing less!

At the core of our business lies an unwavering promise - to provide
you with products that are ethically sourced and environmentally responsible. We've taken pride in leading the charge for sustainability, proudly bearing a palm oil free certification for our entire product
line. Notably, our solid hair & facial care range stands as a rare
gem in an industry saturated with palm oil derived ingredients.

As you may recall, last year we were faced with a difficult decision. Brassica alcohol, a vital component of our products, became unavailable in a palm oil free form. Consequently, we made the choice to halt production of our solid hair & facial care ranges. This sudden and unforeseen shift in ingredients revealed a stark truth - the stability of our ingredient suppliers is far from guaranteed. Ingredients can be altered with swiftness and ease, often with little to no accountability.

We found ourselves disheartened, feeling unsupported in our efforts
to hold this non-compliant ingredient accountable. Many businesses, both manufacturers and retailers, continued to use or sell products containing it, all while claiming a palm oil-free status. This lack of accountability has left us deeply dismayed. What truly lies behind this ingredient? The industry has fallen strangely silent.

We recognise the importance of holding businesses to their claims,
and we share your disappointment in those who prioritise profit over principles. Please understand, this experience has not diminished our resolve to uphold ethical standards. In the face of this challenge, we remain closely connected to our supply chain, actively seeking new avenues and partnerships to ensure that our products meet the standards
our loyal customers deserve.

Your trust and support have always been the driving force behind our mission. This setback will not sway us from our dedication to sustainability and integrity. We remain vigilant in upholding the values that define our brand.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and for your unwavering dedication to a more sustainable future. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Jo & Micko, September 2023