Make Waves review: Why I switched from Wild

Since turning vegan in 2015, I have been searching for an effective, cruelty-free and eco-friendly deodorant. I had very little luck finding something suitable until the launch of Wild Deodorant in 2020. The first of its kind, Wild championed reusable deodorant cases that could be refilled with pods of natural deodorant.

On paper, it was everything I was looking for. However, there were a few very impractical issues that I experienced with their deodorant. Firstly, it wasn’t as effective as I would have liked because it was a natural deodorant. Secondly, it left visible white marks all over my clothing. The combination of these two factors meant that whenever I travelled I would sweat rivers of white liquid all over my clothing. It wasn’t a great look.

So, to my list of desirable qualities that I am looking for in a deodorant, I have since added ‘antiperspirant’. I needed something that would limit my sweat and keep me looking fresh, no matter the climate.

Unsurprisingly, it didn’t take long for other brands to fill the gaps in the market. One such brand is Make Waves. They have built a refillable deodorant, much like Wild’s, but they have created both antiperspirant and natural refills. I knew I had to give it a try!

I switched to Make Waves antiperspirant from Wild Deodorant a few months ago. In this thorough Make Waves review, I will share the reasons why I made this switch and why I am sticking to it!

What is Make Waves?

Make Waves is a sustainable personal care brand that offers eco-friendly, refillable deodorants, with both antiperspirant and natural formulas across a range of scents. The sleek cases are designed for effortless refilling, aligning with the brand’s commitment to a greener future. Plus, their refill pods are not only made from 100% recycled plastic but are also fully recyclable, closing the loop on waste.

How do you use Make Waves?

The Make Waves deodorant applicator is easy to set up and use:

• Open the applicator: Twist the base 90 degrees and gently squeeze the inside to separate the base from the body.
• Insert the refill: Place the refill into the base and press down until you hear a click.
• Reassemble: Align the body over the base and press until it clicks back into place.
• Recycle: Once empty, the refill can be recycled in your household recycling bin.

Yes, it is that simple!

Why I switched to Make Waves

Before switching to Make Waves I was using Wild Deodorant for a few years, with a short stint on Fussy Deodorant before it left a severely itchy rash in my armpit. After testing Make Waves Antiperspirant for a few months, I am already converted! Continue reading to find out why.

Eco-friendly antiperspirant

My search for a sustainable yet effective antiperspirant ended with Make Waves. Unlike natural deodorants that failed to withstand my gym sessions, leaving me with the unpleasant aftermath of sweat, Make Waves has proven its mettle. Whether it’s enduring a strenuous deadlift or braving the summer heat, this antiperspirant has kept me dry and odour-free.

Antiperspirants often get a bad rap due to their aluminium content, which is believed to clog pores and damage skin. However, a deeper investigation into these claims reveals a lack of substantial scientific evidence. Brands like Wild have faced criticism for sharing these assertions online.

With Make Waves, I’ve found reassurance in both its performance and eco-friendliness. It’s a relief to know that I’m not compromising the planet for the sake of staying fresh!

Leaves no white marks

When using Wild I had to endure many a travel adventure with unsightly rivers of white sweat dripping down the sides of my top, gradually making its way onto my black rucksack. It got to the point that I would stop wearing any dark-coloured clothing.

This isn’t the case with Make Waves antiperspirant. I applied just a few swipes to my armpits and put on a dark-coloured top straight away with zero white marks. It only left white marks when I applied too much to my armpits!

I also sweat a lot less when wearing Make Waves (because it is an antiperspirant), so there is no risk of any deodorant making its way down the sides of my clothing. I have even been able to slip off my gym gear after a session and still, zero white marks.

This has been a revelation for me. The anxiety of potential stains once dictated my wardrobe and my outings. Now I can go out without any concern. Make Waves hasn’t just changed my deodorant preference; it has surprisingly improved my day-to-day life!

Made in the UK

Make Waves set themselves apart by manufacturing entirely within the UK, ensuring their products are free from air miles and align with their eco-friendly values. This local production contrasts sharply with many eco-conscious brands that, despite their green credentials, still rely on overseas manufacturing. While these brands are a step up from those using single-use plastics and artificial ingredients, they don’t completely escape the environmental impact of international shipping.

Make Waves demonstrates that it’s entirely feasible to create an effective, eco-friendly deodorant without the added carbon footprint of global transport.

Drawbacks of Make Waves

With Make Waves being a newer deodorant brand, they do have some catching up to do with the other more popular brands like Wild and Fussy. This does mean that they lack the variety that others can offer.

Smaller range of scents

At the time of writing, you can choose from 4 case colours, 4 antiperspirant scents, and 3 natural scents. While this range may seem sparse in comparison to the extensive ranges of its competitors, it reflects a deliberate focus on quality over quantity.

Each scent is crafted to provide a pleasant and subtle natural aroma, avoiding the overpowering effects often found in other products. The case colours are not only aesthetically pleasing but also reflect the brand’s commitment to style and sustainability. They are also well made, ensuring you won’t need to be replacing it every 6 months or so.

As Make Waves continues to evolve, I eagerly anticipate the expansion of their product line.

Where can you buy Make Waves?

Make Waves is currently available directly through their website. Head to wearemakewaves.com to get started with your Make Waves journey.