ITHACA Botanicals FAQS

Why is the deodorant Purple?

The purple colour is caused by the interaction between zinc and naturally occurring phenolic compounds found within the sage extract.

As with many botanical ingredients, the colour may vary and can develop over time. This is completely normal and does not affect the deodorant's performance, quality, or safety. The distinctive purple hue has become a signature characteristic of ITHACA.

Will the deodorant stain my clothes/skin?

No. Despite its purple colour, the deodorant applies clear and is designed to sink quickly into the skin, leaving no greasy residue. The formula is oil-based, helping to keep underarms moisturised, while absorbent powders leave the skin feeling dry to the touch.

As with any deodorant, we recommend allowing it to absorb for a moment before dressing.

 

Is ITHACA 100% natural?

ITHACA is made exclusively from ingredients of natural origin. Our deodorants are vegan, cruelty-free, palm oil free, and contain no petrochemical-derived ingredients or phthalates.

Our formulas combine natural ingredients, such as certified organic mango butter, botanical extracts, and essential oils, with naturally derived ingredients that originate from natural sources and are refined to enhance performance and skin feel.

We prioritise high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients and carefully select each ingredient for its safety, effectiveness, and sustainability credentials.

For a detailed explanation of every ingredient, including its origin and purpose in the formula, please visit our Ingredients page.

 

Is ITHACA suitable for sensitive skin?

ITHACA was designed with delicate underarms in mind. Our formulas are free from baking soda, aluminium salts, phthalates, and synthetic fragrance, which are common triggers for irritation in some individuals.

We also use zinc ricinoleate as our primary deodorising active. Unlike some deodorant ingredients, zinc ricinoleate works by trapping odour molecules without disrupting the skin microbiome.

However, our deodorants are not allergen-free. We use botanical extracts and essential oils, which naturally contain fragrance allergens such as linalool, limonene, and geraniol. While we keep fragrance levels low, sensitivities can occur with any ingredient, whether natural or synthetic.

For this reason, we always recommend patch testing before first use.

 

Does ITHACA offer a fragrance-free deodorant?

Not currently. 

Our deodorants contain botanical extracts and essential oils, which by their nature contribute a subtle scent and naturally occurring fragrance allergens. As a result, none of our current formulations are completely fragrance-free.

For those seeking the gentlest option, our Frankincense & Myrrh deodorant contains the lowest level of fragrance allergens and is generally the most suitable choice for sensitive skin.

 

 

What is the pH of ITHACA deodorant?

ITHACA is a waterless formula, so it does not have a measurable pH. pH can only be measured in products that contain water, and a deodorant stick made from oils, butters, waxes, and powders does not have a measurable pH value.

Other waterless deodorants may contain ingredients such as baking soda or magnesium hydroxide. While these products also do not have a measurable pH in the stick itself, these ingredients dissolve when they come into contact with moisture on the skin and can influence the skin's pH environment. This is where irritation and sensitivity can occur.

ITHACA does not rely on highly alkaline ingredients to deodorise. Instead, zinc ricinoleate works by binding odour molecules and does not interfere with the skin's microbiome. This is supported by a carefully selected blend of antimicrobial botanical extracts.

As part of our microbiome-friendly formulation philosophy, we have carefully chosen ingredients that work in harmony with the skin

 

Is ITHACA microbiome friendly? What does that mean?

Your skin microbiome is the community of beneficial microorganisms that naturally live on your skin and help support skin health and barrier function. 

ITHACA was designed to work with your skin rather than against it. We use zinc ricinoleate to help control odour by binding odour molecules, rather than using ingredients that aggressively target the skin's natural microbial ecosystem.

We are currently undergoing assessment with MyMicrobiome, and our formula has received initial INCI approval as part of the certification process.

While no deodorant can claim to have zero impact on the skin environment, we have carefully selected ingredients that align with our microbiome-friendly formulation philosophy.

 

Does ITHACA deodorant give 24 hours protection?

This very much depends on the individual. Factors such as activity levels, climate, stress, and body chemistry can all influence how long a deodorant remains effective.

Many of our customers report feeling fresh throughout the day, including after exercise, and find a single application provides lasting odour protection.

Our philosophy is slightly different to brands that promote 24–48 hour protection. We believe a deodorant should effectively manage odour while working in harmony with your skin. In our view, a product that claims to suppress odour for 48 hours will likely not align with supporting the skin microbiome.

 

How long will the product last?

As a guide, most users find that one stick lasts around 6 months when applied once daily. Those who apply more frequently may find it lasts for a shorter period, while lighter users may find it lasts even longer.

 

How to use the end of the stick up?

Once your deodorant stick is nearly finished, simply push the remaining product out from the base of the tube and apply it directly to the skin.

Any remaining product can also be transferred into a small container or tin for easy use until the very last swipe.

We designed ITHACA to minimise waste, so you can enjoy every last bit of your deodorant before recycling or composting the packaging.

My deodorant balm has gone grainy. Is this normal?

Yes. This is a natural characteristic of products containing high levels of mango butter.

If the balm is exposed to heat and then cools again, the mango butter can recrystallise, creating a slightly grainy texture. While it may look different, the product remains perfectly safe and effective to use.

For best results, store at room temperature and avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 30°C. If the balm becomes soft or melts, simply place it in a cool location or in the fridge to firm up again.

Is ITHACA Vegan?

Yes. All ITHACA deodorants are 100% vegan and contain no animal-derived ingredients.

This includes our Lavender deodorant, which contains manuka essential oil. Manuka essential oil is sometimes confused with manuka honey, but it is derived from the leaves and branches of the manuka plant and is entirely plant-based.