Masking body odor is an essential part of everyday hygiene. When choosing a deodorant, you can opt for a natural deodorant or a traditional antiperspirant. Traditional antiperspirants, however, typically contain toxic components which can include triclosan, propylene glycol, aluminum, BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), synthetic fragrances and other harmful hormone disrupting preservatives like parabens.
Contrarily, natural deodorants use plant-based elements and natural fragrances derived from plant extracts. Natural deodorant brands can also include other nontoxic ingredients such as baking soda, coconut oil, shea butter, and cornstarch.
Natural deodorants constitute three elements; those with disinfection and antibacterial functions, those with a scent, and those with absorbent properties. Some examples include:
- Natural fragrance; sandalwood, lavender essential oils
- Absorbent properties; arrowroot, baking soda, cornstarch
- Antibacterial properties; tea tree oil, coconut oil
Since deodorants will not prevent one from sweating, natural deodorants work by minimizing odor instead. If you are switching from traditional deodorant, consider using an armpit detox first to ease the process.
Benefits of Natural Deodorant
By choosing a nontoxic natural deodorant, you allow your body to perspire; sweating is a natural bodily function that is part of our detoxification process. Conventional antiperspirants contain aluminum-based elements that block the sweat pores and prevent this process under the arms; a sensitive area close to the lymph nodes and breast tissue. The National Center for Biotechnology indicates that constant use of traditional deodorant may lead to aluminum accumulation in your body. This heavy metal toxin may cause health problems such as kidney problems, dementia, and bone disease.
In addition to health concerns, conventional deodorant causes those crispy yellow stains on your clothes around the armpit area. When the aluminum reacts with your sweat, it causes staining.
Natural deodorant on other hand allows your body to function normally without any odor; it’s skin-friendly. Natural ingredients are less like to irritate your skin compared to synthetic ones. Choosing a deodorant with natural components protects the environment as the ingredients used are typically sustainable. Here are six natural deodorant brands to consider.
1. Soapwalla Deodorant Cream
Soapwalla deodorant is a natural and superfine nontoxic deodorant that absorbs moisture, keeps bacteria away, and is long-lasting. It contains natural ingredients such as clay, vegetable powder, essential oils, tea tree oil, lavender, and peppermint. It comes in a glass pot, so you apply it by scooping the product and using it on your underarms. Manufacturers recommend stirring the product gently, then storing it in a freezer for about 20 minutes. This will allow it to solidify after application as it does not have waxes or hardeners. Thus, it may liquefy after a temperature change. For the best experience, use the products within 12 months after purchase.
Pros
Aluminium-Free
Cruelty-Free
Paraben-Free
Best for all skin types
Vegan
Rapid Application
Long-lasting
Cons
Relatively expensive
You may experience a grainy texture
Not convenient to apply
2. Kosas Chemistry Deodorant
Kosas Chemistry Deodorant is a stain-free deodorant that offers a spa-like scent. Instead of absorbents such as baking soda, Kosas Chemistry Deodorant has Alpha Hydroxy Acids that prevent body odor. AHAs not only keep you smelling fresh, but they also cure hyperpigmentation and give you an even skin tone. They also reduce the pH in your underarms, which makes it difficult for odor-causing bacteria to thrive. Kosas Chemistry Deodorant has mandelic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and sodium hyaluronate.
Pros
It has a lightweight formula that dries quickly after application
Does not contain aluminum, silicones, parabens, sulfates, fragrance, mineral oil, or baking soda
Has AHAs that exfoliate the skin and prevent ingrown hairs
Moisturizes and soothes the sensitive armpit skin
Works well on sensitive skin
It doesn’t leave residue
Cons
It takes some time to dry
May sting on freshly-shaved skin
Underarms may feel sticky in humid environments. You can spray powder to prevent this.
3. Native Deodorant
Native is a cruelty-free deodorant made of natural ingredients such as probiotics, shea butter, tapioca starch, and coconut oil. It uses baking soda for its absorbent properties. However, their formula for sensitive skin does not contain baking soda. It also provides consumers with a plastic-free packaging option, a chance to impact the environment positively. This deodorant works best during light activity in a hot and humid environment.
Pros
Aluminum-free
Contains natural ingredients
Is non-staining
Effective protection
Aluminum-free
Easy application
Silky and smooth texture
Cons
It may leave residue in some cases
Not ideal for intense physical activity
May need reapplication during the day
4. Pretty Frank Natural Deodorant
Pretty Frank is an organic deodorant that works with your body. Instead of preventing your body from sweating, it absorbs the wetness. Using organic arrowroot, it neutralizes your body odor, which keeps you fresh. It works for men and women and does not contain harsh ingredients. The main components are zinc, charcoal, and magnesium hydroxide. These ingredients are food-grade and safe enough to consume. After all, Amy Perez, the founder, created the first product in her kitchen in 2012. The packaging also comes in recyclable glass containers.
Pros
Aluminum- and paraben-free
No fragrance
No baking soda
Great for sensitive skin
It has a gentle formula
Recyclable packaging
Cons
It may be messy using the jar version of the application
5. Erbaviva Organic Deodorant
Erbaviva utilizes the purifying properties of natural ingredients such as sage, patchouli, lemon, tea tree oil, and lemon to mask body odor. It leaves you feeling refreshed. Erbaviva is USDA organic, and you can use it on your fabrics, carpet, or yoga mat. It’s available as a spray to ease the application process.
Pros
Aluminum-free
Cruelty-free
No irritation
Does not leave residue
Environmental friendly packaging
Uses 95% organic ingredients
Sulfate & paraben-free
Cons
May need reapplication
Some scents may be off-putting
It can sting after a fresh shave
6. Crystal Deodorant
Despite their changing packaging, Crystal’s philosophy remains unchanged. They remain passionate about using safe ingredients that are effective and safe for the environment. The brand has a Clean Label Project Purity Award for all its deodorants. Crystal deodorant is free of aluminum, sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances. The main ingredient is a mineral salt that occurs naturally.
They developed the formula after the founder, during a trip to France, realized that mineral salts are effective hypoallergenic deodorants. After that, they began improving the mineral salts and shaping them. Crystal formula consists of cellulose, benzoic acid, sodium bicarbonate, potassium, alum, zinc gluconate, and water. The product works by creating a barrier against odor-causing bacteria. This barrier is non-sticky, non-staining, and invisible.
Pros
It does not cause irritation
It has an unscented option
Aluminum-free
Great for sensitive skin
Is the light on the skin
Comes in roll, stick or spray options
Cons
May not work during intensive exercise
Besides aluminum, traditional antiperspirants can contain other toxins that interfere with normal body functioning. These toxins can disrupt hormones and contribute to illnesses and diseases like cancer. Natural deodorants regulate your body’s temperature by preserving the body’s natural processes, such as sweating which prevents you from feeling dizzy or faint due to overheating.
When choosing a natural deodorant, it’s best to consider your specific needs. You can evaluate the scents you like, the application methods you prefer, any allergies or sensitivities you may have. For example, many natural deodorants that contain baking soda. While a natural ingredient, one can also develop an allergy to baking soda. Therefore, you should carefully examine a product’s ingredients before purchasing. There are numerous natural deodorants, and you’re sure to find your perfect match. Got a favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
I ended up with the weirdest armpit rash ever so my dermatologist recommended I switch to a natural deodorant. Thanks for these suggestions, after checking some of amazon reviews the one from Pretty Frank looks the best, gonna try it out soon.
Great choice! So glad your dermatologist suggested a natural deodorant (you’ll never go back)!!
My past experience with natural deodorants has not been a pleasant one, I never managed to find the right option since I 1. workout a lot, 2. sweat like crazy day in, day out and 3. wear mostly black. I never thought about using the spray version, fingers crossed it works.
I personally LOVE the sprays; they feel super clean and refreshing and smell great. Remember, it’s really good to sweat – especially at the gym since it’s our body’s naturally way to detox. But, we don’t have to settle for stinky, lol!