DO YOU REMEMBER HOW, SOME TIME AGO, THE INTERNET was abuzz with chatter about the need for using deodorants more often? Wishful thinking. It wasn’t. But it should be. Because how is it that we’re in the latter half of 2026, and people still aren’t using deodorants? Oh, they are? Then what would explain what happens when people are back from a walk or workout, using public transport, sitting next to you in a movie theatre, making presentations in the office conference room or, simply, going about their lives. And ruining yours in the bargain.
I’m hoping you’ve been using a deodorant though, dear reader, for I’d hate to know otherwise. And while we’re at it, don’t you think it’s time you took it to the next level and embarked upon a journey that leads you to a more ‘natural’ alternative? Yes, I’m making a case for natural deodorants, still in shock that it’s come to that. I’ve always been a staunch believer in regular antiperspirants and deodorants— packed with aluminium (and other not-so-good ingredients), they’ve always proved reliable. Like a good friend who’s always a call away. So what if he’s a bit toxic? At least he won’t leave you stranded. I’d always traded pit stains with never smelling like the absolute pits. Until, of course, I chanced upon natural deodorants.
We’ve all been told that natural deodorants just don’t work. Sure, a lot of them didn’t until not too long ago. Especially in our climate. But now, a lot of them do. I’ve used them and been rather impressed. The Bare Bar, for instance, has a wonderful Sandalwood & Oud roll-on stick that I’ve quite enjoyed. Laani’s Clear Deodorant stick is another impressive option. I did spend the first couple of days worried: what if I was smelling foul? I wasn’t. All day. Who’d have thought? Plus, no risk of aluminium and parabens—has the world finally reached deodorant heaven, or what?\
The thing about natural deodorants is that we’re mostly going with another person’s opinion. Someone we know knows someone else who tried a natural deodorant that didn’t work, and we’ve all given that person (and the deodorant he used) a bad rap since. Most of you, I’m sure, haven’t actually gone au naturel yet, have you? I’d say, get over yourself and your fears and give these natural ones a shot in the arm, err, armpit, to be exact.
To read more stories from Esquire India's September 2026 issue, pick up a copy of the magazine from your nearest newspaper stand or bookstore. Or click here to subscribe to the magazine.