Plastic-free deodorant
We give
a shift /
A SHELL FOR LIFE
We have been looking at making a deodorant for a number of years now. For something we do so often, we knew that if we did it, we had to do it right. In the past year, we have seen a number of ‘successful’ refillable deodorants come to market, all of which are made of virgin plastics. Even though this is a positive step, we knew we could do better.
We knew that ours needed to be built to last, with minimal breakable components, one that was fully recyclable without losing any material value.
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THE DESIGN
The Shell is a mono-material casing, made from only aluminium. Unlike many other deodorant stick packaging it contains no plastic. To create a usable case that had a pushing action for ease of use, we went back to basics. Instead of having an overly complex twisting internal system (which is only possible if made out of plastic) we looked at how our hands could be the pushing force. This led us to putting an internal step inside the shell, which holds the refill in place, allowing it to be easily pushed from the bottom of the outer casing. This resulted in only a 3 part product, which we believe to be the first of its kind.
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FORMULATION
Creating a 100% natural balm with multiple organic-certified ingredients was important to us. Many deodorants use harsh chemicals and aluminium salts, which can have adverse effects on health. After years of using these types of deodorants it may take some time for your body to adjust to a natural alternative, as aluminium can clog pores. By doing this it stops an important bodily function. Sweating releases toxins, and it can also help promote a strong immune system. So instead of adding aluminium to our deodorant, we made the Shell from it instead.
The main actives in the formula are Magnesium Hydroxide, Tapioca Starch and Zinc Ricinoleate which collectively eliminate odour itself, destroy odour causing bacteria and reduce the rate at which bacteria continue to multiply. Importantly, we aren’t using common natural balm ingredients like Sodium Bicarbonate, which, while effective, can drastically throw off the pH balance of the skin, leading to more odour or sensitivity issues
We’ve got 3 great smelling fragrances with natural essential oils, packed full of premium natural ingredients that stop the growth of odour-causing bacteria and keep your armpits smooth and moisturised.
We draw on a deep understanding of the elements—their effects on the skin and body—a desire to create beautiful products in harmony with nature and a celebration of the all-consuming power of scent.
METALWORK
With the intent of making the case last for as long as possible, and infinitely recyclable if needed, we knew the case had to be made of aluminium. Perhaps one of the most recyclable materials on earth, aluminium not only provided us with a long lasting product, but one that could be recycled at the end of its life back into another aluminium product of the same quality. Unlike plastics that if recyclable are degraded in the recycling process (Ie. plastic bottles often get turned into packaging). Over 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use due to its perpetual recycling attributes, unlike plastics where only 9% has ever been recycled (Alumeco, 2021).
ANODISING
For the colouring of the cases, we decided on the same process that is used to protect satellites from their harsh outer space environments, anodising. For the simple reason that it stabilises and seals the aluminium, increasing its lifespan, thus allowing the case to be used for longer as well as being the most environmentally conscious choice. Anodising, unlike almost all metal treatments, produces no hazardous waste, is water based, and uses no volatile organic compounds (Greenspec, 2021). We’re also huge fans of the aesthetic qualities of the anodising process as well!
ENGRAVING
Laser engraving was by far the best option for finishing and branding the cases, and provided us the quickest, and most effective method. It takes all of 13 seconds for the laser to engrave the case, and surprisingly little energy. The process is devoid of any inks, many of which are often harmful to local water systems. By not using any of these extra materials it also allows for safer and easier recycling. The final outcome is a small logo which highlights the origin of the case by showing the bare aluminium that the whole product is made from.
