When natural deodorants are pitted against extra-strength, chemically-infused antiperspirants, the former rarely adds up. However, as the market for natural beauty expands, many brands have rolled out plant-based deodorants that surprisingly work.
Unlike conventional deodorants packed with pore-clogging chemicals, natural antiperspirants let your skin breathe while keeping bacteria and odor at bay. They’re loaded with good-for-you ingredients like baking soda, magnesium, activated charcoal, and essential oils that do the hard work of neutralizing odor and absorbing moisture without any shady side effects. Plus, many contain skin-loving extras like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera to keep your pits soft and irritation-free.
So, why go natural? Aside from dodging potential irritants and synthetic chemicals that can disrupt your hormones, you’ll also reduce your exposure to aluminum—the active ingredient in most antiperspirants, which some studies suggest could be linked to health concerns like breast cancer and Alzheimer’s. If you don’t know what product to try, don’t sweat it—we’ve done your homework for you. These are our top five aluminum-free, best natural deodorants that smell good, and most importantly, work.
AKT The Deodorant Balm
Infused with AKT’s DEO-BARRIER COMPLEX™, this balm glides on like a dream, transforming into a dry, invisible powder that works overtime to cleanse, deodorize, and absorb moisture. It features the invigorating notes of Petitgrain, Mandarin, and Neroli to neutralize odor.
Lavanila Pure Vanilla Deodorant
This clinically-tested formula is free of aluminum, paraben, and other harsh chemicals. Instead, it uses beta glucan technology to minimize and absorb sweat molecules, leaving you smelling fresh while allowing your skin to breathe.
Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant
This nonstick serum deodorant features AHAs, which not only fight odor, but work to prevent ingrowns, soothe skin, and brighten underarms.
Aesop Herbal Deodorant Roll-On
Infused with a herbaceous blend of essential oils, this roll-on glides on smoothly, keeping your underarms dry and fresh all day.
Salt and Stone Santal & Vetiver Deodorant
This award-winning formula is enriched with seaweed extracts and hyaluronic acid to moisturize and nourish the skin while probiotics fight odor.
