Stephie Estie

Native Deodorant Review!

Happy Tuesday everyone!

A while ago, I posted a poll on my Instagram stories, asking followers if they’d be interested in me reviewing my current favorite deodorant.  A lot of people responded that they were interested so here we are. 🙂

First, a little backstory on why I choose to try this one out.  For the most part, I was happy with the Dove Clinical Protection Antiperspirant, however, I always found that my underarms would get really itchy at times.  I became really annoyed with this and while my experience with natural LAVNILLA deodorant didn’t work out, I had seen ads on Native so I decided to test it out.

Native Deodorant- Coconut and Vanilla

Described as, aluminum-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and talc-free. We tested thousands of ingredients before finding a recipe that feels light and fresh under your arms, but provides you with effective protection against odor and wetness.”

Pros 

Excellent variety of scented and unscented options

Aluminum-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and talc-free

Effective odor protection- daily and through workouts

Smooth application

No need to reapply throughout the day

Doesn’t make my underarms itchy

Cons

A little pricey at $12

Doesn’t really help keep you dry

Can leave behind white residue marks if you’re not careful

Overall: This is my second time purchasing this deodorant so I’ve had ample opportunity to thoroughly test this out and I can say that I love it.  It is pricier that some drugstore ones but just that fact that my underarms are no longer itchy, that alone is worth the investment.  I was able to try this out before I got injured so I can say that it provides great coverage throughout workouts or for daily wear.  I do find that you need to be careful about the residue if you apply too much or if you apply it right before applying a long sleeve shirt.  Although it doesn’t really help keep me as dry as I would like, it’s not a deal breaker for me.  What really piqued my interest, however, is the inclusion of probiotics. With the skincare industry recognizing the importance of the human microbiome, it’s interesting to me how companies are using probiotics for a variety of issues in an effort to help combat bacteria. I’m curious to see how this plays out.

Have you tried Native deodorants? What deodorant do you favor/recommend?

 

 

3 Ways to Reduce Stress!

Happy Friday everyone!

Life in general can be pretty stressful at any given moment and as much as I love the holiday season, stress seems to be amplified just a tad more during this time of year.  Last minute shopping, attending events, increased traffic- the list goes on.  As someone who deals with a chronic illness, keeping stress levels in check is crucial for me, albeit not always easy.

Below are three ways that can help you unwind and relax when you find that your mind and body begin to invoke that flight or fight response a little too frequently.

Water Fountains

I visited my cousin a few weeks ago and she had this water fountain running that was just so relaxing.  There’s something about the sound of flowing water that helps calm your senses and soothe your soul.  Light up some candles and turn off the lights to create your own mini spa atmosphere that is sure to leave you feeling zen.

Deep Breathing

Definitely not a new concept, however, it’s one that I have been putting into place more often since the beginning of the year.  With the help of Nicole, my pelvic floor physical therapist, I’ve learned how to properly deep breathe and just 10 minutes a day of doing this helps ease my mind tremendously.  It’s made such a positive impact in my life that when my clients come in for facials, I incorporate it into their session.

Music

I don’t know about you but to me music is the perfect medium for just about anything.  I can put an upbeat playlist and just dance my worries away or I can play something more low-key when I need to unwind.

What do you do to tackle stress?