If using your fingers to apply deodorant to your armpits is strange or new to you, you’re not alone. Many of us are accustomed to using a roll-on or stick deodorant application, so dipping our hands into a jar and finger painting our armpits seems odd to say the least. But, there are quite a few real benefits to doing just that.

It’s a way to connect with your body.

Applying natural deodorant with your fingertips puts you in touch with your body — literally. And every time you put it on, you can remind yourself of the good you’re doing by allowing it to sweat and detox naturally.

It helps smooth things over.

Unlike the chemical concoctions put together in labs for traditional deodorants and antiperspirants, the ingredients in all-natural deodorant can firm up or soften depending on the temperature they are in. The good-for-us stuff like shea butter, coconut oil, and candelilla wax can change consistency a bit, getting softer as the air around them is warmer.

When the temps get chilly and your natural deodorant hardens, the heat from your hands can help soften it for a smoother, easier application.

It’s a form of self-care.

Carving out a few extra minutes of “me time” in your hectic routine can be challenging, so it’s important that we find ways to pamper ourselves whenever we can.

Our everyday routine is part of that self-care — yep, even something as simple as putting on deodorant. The sensation of massaging the cream into your skin is relaxing. Not to mention the aromatherapy benefits that come from essential oils.

It’s an extra chance to check for lumps.

A big reason many of us go natural with deodorant is because of the potential links of aluminum and other harsh chemical ingredients with cancers, particularly breast cancer. Putting on deo with your hands gives you an additional opportunity to look out for yourself. It’s a great chance to check for any irregular lumps. If you’re applying deodorant manually every day, chances are you’re going to notice anything unusual right away.

It opens up a world of possibility.

Let’s face it, our pits aren’t the only parts of our body to work up a stink, especially in hot weather or when we’re working out. Your feet, chest, behind the knees, stomach and other places can definitely get to feeling (and smelling) less than lovely. Scoop out a little of your natural deodorant and rub it anywhere you want a little extra odor protection.

It helps reduce your carbon footprint.

Virtually all traditional anti-sweat products (and personal care products in general, for that matter) are manufactured in single-use plastic containers – convenient for us, but not so much for Mother Nature. That’s why we make every effort to reduce waste and offer the most sustainable packaging solutions possible. All our packaging is recyclable, but if you’re looking for something even more eco-friendly, look no further than our white glass deodorant jars.

Those wonderful jars can be washed and re-used for all kinds of things: to store spices or other kitchen ingredients, to organize jewelry, to hold pencils or paperclips, even as a sweet little desktop flower planter. They are also super handy for pouring smaller quantities of things like shampoo or lotion into for instant travel size. And if you’re a DIY-er, they make great receptacles for other natural body products you might want to make.

It may take a bit of getting used to, but applying deodorant with your fingertips is a small change that can have a big impact. Make the switch and pamper your pits – we promise you’ll never look back.