The sun is shining, and yes, natural deodorants do work. After more than five years of using them, I’ve had my fair share of failed products. Finally, I no longer have to awkwardly smell my own sweat.
It’s been a long journey to find reliable products and brands that make my skin feel good. And most importantly, hide that icky sweat smell throughout the entire day.
Natural deodorants have a bad rep for not working properly, and I can say I’ve dealt with a few of these. It’s important to note that not all products work the same with different people. I might sweat more than other people, which is why some products didn’t work for me.
What’s also important is that natural deodorants aren’t antiperspirants, those are different. Antiperspirants actually block your sweat glands from releasing the sweat and the smell, which isn’t healthy.
Table of Contents
What is a Natural Deodorant?
A good way to start off this list is just by sorting out exactly what a natural deodorant is. Natural products of any type can be confusing, because ingredient names aren’t always clear. Overall, natural deodorants work by using a blend of starches, oils and natural scents to hide the smell of sweat. They also generally contain organic and naturally-based ingredients. This may include natural fragrances, sweat absorbing ingredients and oils.
Other natural deodorants have no parabens, silicones, mineral oil, animal derivatives (vegan), synthetic fragrances and more.
The reason for aluminum being a problem, is there’s some scientific evidence alluding to a possible link between breast cancer and deodorants which contain aluminum.
While there isn’t enough significant evidence to prove this link, it’s always good to use more organic and natural products. Especially when they’re in direct contact with your body, or being ingested. Personally, I made the switch to natural deodorants because traditional deodorants would leave my pits feeling sticky and weird. Traditional deodorants would leave a matted residue on my pits that I couldn’t get off, even with scrubbing and soap. Overall I just didn’t enjoy the experience of them.
The Best Natural Deodorants that Work All-Day
This is the list of my go-to natural deodorants which I’ve been trusting to keep me sweat-smell-free. All of these deodorants are without aluminum, but have other great ingredients to keep your pitts smooth and smelling good. Most of these brands have other scents along with these listed below, click on the link to find more from the brand and start smelling sweet as.
Also important about these products, they’re all travel-friendly and budget-friendly. And if used properly, they last for months so it’s worth the price.
A’kin | Rose & Australian Sandalwood Roll On
I love all of A’kin’s natural beauty products, they all smell natural and amazing. I was skeptical of this deodorant because I haven’t had good experiences with liquid deodorants before. This one is completely different and amazing natural deodorant that works all-day. Okay, technically it’s supposed to have 24 hour clinical protection, but I usually shower before testing it out that long.
What’s different about this natural deodorant by A’kin, it still has all natural ingredients but it dries up pretty quick. So after applying it, I’m not left with gooey pits like I’ve experienced with other wet deodorants. And, it comes in both a roll on and spray option. I bought both, but have only tried the roll on so far. This is also one of the few deodorants I’ve used that doesn’t leave any mark on my clothes at all.
Natio Spirit | Tea Tree + Lime
This natural deodorant is a product from Australia’s Natio Spirit line. This natural deodorant is a refreshing blend of tea tree and lime, and of course, it works.
What’s important about this deodorant is it doesn’t melt away easily. It comes off as a traditional deodorant stick, yet more round than oval shape. It has a creamy blend of oils and starches to work, and in the right temperature the right amount should easily go on. I have forgotten it in a hot area a few times and it didn’t melt completely, but it gets pretty soft. If this happens, fret not, just use your fingers to wipe it on. Or, let it cool down in the fridge.
Crystal Deodorant Stick
I remember being so confused as to how this was a deodorant when I first bought it. It’s clear, unscented and comes in the perfect container. It works by creating a natural barrier to prevent sweating smells by just a natural mineral salt. Yes, it’s that easy. Moisten the top before using and you’re good to go.
This is the best deodorant for those that don’t like smells or may have allergies to other ingredients. It’s really the most simple and useful natural deodorant on the market, no frills but it works. I will say, this is the worst deodorant to use right after shaving, I’ve never felt a burn so intense. Just avoid after shaving and use any other time!
Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant Stick | Ylang Ylang + Calendula
Schmidt’s is a big name in the natural deodorant world, and for lots of good reasons. I found them as one of the first companies to make and sell affordable, good smelling deodorants that work. The stick also lasts nearly forever!
I have had a few problems with Schmidts, which is why it’s not first on the list. First off is the staining problem, I’ve had clothes ruined by the blend of ingredients, whether it’s the perfumes or the coconut oil. For this reason I would not recommend the rose scented sticks, which stain pink in the pits. I ended up just using my Schmidt’s while wearing tanks to avoid this. Another problem is that the stick melts easily in hot climates—very easily. Aside from these problems, I love the scents and find the deodorant works.
Looking for more natural beauty options? Check out the best natural shampoos (which work great for fine hair) and reef-safe water-resistant sunscreens, or sunscreens that don’t burn eyes!
