Fitness Gear The 13 Best Natural Deodorants of 2022 Get 24-hour protection with Secret Aluminum-Free Deodorant with Essential Oils By Rozalynn S. Frazier Rozalynn S. Frazier Rozalynn is an award-winning, multimedia journalist who covers all things fitness and wellness. She is a NASM-certified personal trainer and behavior change specialist. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 27, 2022 Medically reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD Medically reviewed by Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD LinkedIn Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician and currently serves as the medical director of an outpatient clinic. Learn about our Medical Review Board Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Natural deodorants are gaining popularity for a variety of reasons, including their aluminum- and paraben-free ingredient list. While research is still being done on the subject, these harmful additions are thought to be linked to hormonal changes as well as breast cancer. Natural deodorants won't clog your pores, are safe to use on sensitive skin, and, according to Alia Sampson Brown, MD, board-certified dermatologist, and co-managing partner at Georgia Dermatology Partners "they allow the body to detoxify, releasing bacteria and chemicals like BPA through sweating." Reviewed & Approved A top choice that is free of aluminum, parabens, dyes, and talc is Secret's Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Women with Essential Oils. With 11 different scents to choose from, Native Natural Vegan Deodorant with shea butter is a good pick. Despite the benefits, natural deodorants aren't for everyone. Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mariwalla Dermatology, says that, unlike antiperspirants, they don't effectively control sweat. “So, if you need sweat protection, all-natural deodorants may not be your best option," she added. If you're considering switching your deodorant, look for products with ingredients that moisturize, and eliminate odor rather than just mask it. We reviewed products for this roundup based on style—spray, roll-on, or lotion, ingredients, fragrance, and how long-lasting they are. Here are the best natural deodorants on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall for Women: Secret Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Women with Essential Oils at Amazon Best Overall for Men: Jack Black Pit CTRL Aluminum-Free Deodorant at Amazon Best Unisex: Native Natural, Vegan Deodorant at Amazon Best Budget: Schmidt's Natural Deodorant at Amazon Best Antiperspirant: Tom’s of Maine Natural Charcoal Deodorant for Women at Amazon Best Spray: Ursa Major Sublime Sage Natural Spray Deodorant at Amazon Best for Working Out: Malin + Goetz Deodorant at Amazon Best for Women's Sensitive Skin: Each & Every Aluminum Free Deodorant at Amazon Best for Men's Sensitive Skin: Bevel Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Men at Amazon Best Serum: Kosas Chemistry Deodorant at Credo Beauty In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall for Women: Secret Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Women with Essential Oils 4.5 Courtesy of Walmart View On Amazon Pros No aluminum, parabens, dyes, or talc Peta-certified cruelty-free 24-hour protection Cons Fragrance may irritate sensitive skin If you want a clean alternative to your go-to Secret deodorant, the brand has an aluminum-free version—getting rid of harmful ingredients like talc, dyes, and parabens which makes it a top choice. Formulated with magnesium hydroxide, the deodorant provides 24-hour protection from perspiration. It's also scented with essential oils that will leave you feeling fresh throughout the day. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Magnesium hydroxide and essential oils Best Overall for Men: Jack Black Pit CTRL Aluminum-Free Deodorant Courtesy of Jack Black View On Amazon View On Getjackblack.com Pros Free of aluminum Vegan Cons Baking soda may irritate some This aluminum-free deodorant combines baking soda, cornstarch, and enzymes for triple-threat protection from smells and sweat. Formulated for men, it uses Jack Black’s signature Turbo scent, which features eucalyptus, spearmint, and rosemary. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.75 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Baking soda, cornstarch, and enzymes Best Unisex: Native Natural, Vegan Deodorant 4.9 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros No aluminum, parabens, or talc Comes in 11 scents Moisturizing shea butter Cons Baking soda may irritate some A combination of baking soda and magnesium hydroxide helps keep odors at bay, while tapioca starch eliminates excess moisture. It excludes controversial ingredients like aluminum, talc, and parabens, making it a favorite among dermatologists. You can also choose one of the 11 scents—from coconut and vanilla to cucumber and mint. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Baking soda and Magnesium Hydroxide Best Budget: Schmidt's Natural Deodorant Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon Pros No aluminum, artificial fragrance, or phthalates Vegan Certified cruelty-free Not formulated with baking soda Cons May clump under arms with wear If your pits need some help staying fresh but you don't want to break the bank when shopping for a solution, this aluminum-free deodorant is your best bet. It will protect against odor, thanks to magnesium hydroxide, along with bergamot and lime essential oils. Formulated with jojoba seed oil, shea moisture butter, and vitamin E, this option from Schmidt's is also moisturizing and cruelty-free. Application: Solid stick | Size: 3.25 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Bergamot and Lime essential oils and Magnesium Hydroxide 10 Best Chafing Creams to Keep You Rub-Free, Recommended by an Experts Best Antiperspirant: Tom’s of Maine Natural Charcoal Deodorant for Women Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros 24-hour protection No petrochemicals or artificial fragrances Charity bonus Cons Made with recycled aluminum Charcoal has the ability to draw out skin impurities, and this creamy-textured antiperspirant relies on it to absorb odor-causing bacteria. The activated charcoal, in addition to recycled aluminum, wards off wetness for 24 hours. Additionally, the company donates 10 percent of its profits to charities committed to children's health, education, and the environment. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.25 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Charcoal The Best Deodorants for Men Will Keep You Fresh and Dry All Day Best Spray: Ursa Major Sublime Sage Natural Spray Deodorant Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Ursamajorvt.com Pros Non-staining formula No aluminum, baking soda, parabens, or synthetic fragrance Cons Expensive for the size This earthy, sage-scented deodorant is formulated with natural ingredients, including lemon, myrtle, Saccharomyces ferment, and triethyl citrate—keeping perspiration at bay. While effective at stopping heavy sweating, your body might take three weeks to adjust to the vegan and aluminum-free formula. Application: Spray | Size: 1.79 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Saccharomyces ferment, lemon myrtle, and triethyl citrate Best for Working Out: Malin + Goetz Deodorant Courtesy of Nordstrom View On Amazon View On Bloomingdales View On Nordstrom Pros No aluminum, alcohol, sulfates, phthalates, parabens, petrochemicals, mineral oil, silicone, or talc Cons Not the best for heavy sweaters A swipe of this silky invisible solid leaves your underarms tingling— in the best possible way—thanks to refreshing and soothing eucalyptus oil. Paired with citronellyl, it helps fight odor without drying out your skin. The corn starch acts as a natural antiperspirant and because it's free of sulfates, phthalates, parabens, and silicone, it won't cause irritation. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.6 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Citronellyl and eucalyptus The 12 Best Deodorants for Women for Odor Control Best for Women's Sensitive Skin: Each & Every Aluminum Free Deodorant View On Amazon View On Eachandevery.com Pros No aluminum, parabens, or alcohol Not formulated with baking soda No phthalates or synthetic fragrances Cons Uses coconut oil (a comedogenic) Using magnesium hydroxide, this smooth-feeling deodorant exfoliates and eliminates bacteria-causing odors. The tapioca starch fends off sweat, and the essential oils offer you all-day freshness. You can find Each and Every's sustainable deodorant in rose and vanilla, citrus and vetiver, cannabis and green tea, and more. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.5 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Dead sea salt Best for Men's Sensitive Skin: Bevel Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Men Courtesy of Twitter View On Amazon View On Getbevel.com Pros No aluminum, parabens, sulfates, alcohol talc, or synthetic fragrances Cons Fragrances may be irritating Uses coconut oil (a comedogenic) This deodorant is formulated without aluminum, and instead, relies on magnesium hydroxide to prevent body odor. The tapioca starch acts as an antiperspirant and can prevent excessive sweating for 48 hours. With the addition of shea butter and coconut oil, the formula hydrates and moisturizes with use. Application: Solid stick | Size: 2.5 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Magnesium hydroxide Best Serum: Kosas Kosasport Chemistry Deodorant 4.8 View On Credo Beauty View On Kosas.com View On Nordstrom Pros No aluminum or baking soda Super hydrating Won’t stain clothes Cons AHAs can cause irritation or redness This roll-on serum, which offers scented and unscented versions, powers up protection through a blend of three AHAs— shikimic, mandelic, and lactic acids. The combination neutralizes odor and exfoliates to brighten dull-looking skin. Plus, it incorporates aloe vera juice and hyaluronic acid, which offer hydrating and soothing benefits to your underarms. Application: Roll-on serum | Size: 2.4 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Shikimic, mandelic, and lactic acids Best Wipe: Megababe Rosy Pits Deodorant Wipes Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Ulta Pros Biodegradable No aluminum, parabens, or phthalates Cons Fragrances may be irritating These cleansing wipes are the perfect companion for on-the-go deodorant needs. Each rose-scented wipe contains Saccharomyces ferment to defend against odor, and the formula contains antioxidants, such as green tea and vitamin E, that reduce skin irritation. Coconut water and aloe soothe and moisturize skin. Application: Wipes | Size: 18 8 x 5-inch individually-wrapped wipes | Odor-eliminating ingredients: Saccharomyces ferment, coconut, vitamin E, and sage The Best Shoe Deodorizers of 2022, According to a Running Coach Best for Kids: FoodGradeOrganic KIDS 100% Natural Roll-On Deodorant Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon Pros Free from aluminum, alcohol, dyes, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, artificial colors Hypoallergenic Gluten free Cons Baking soda may irritate some Teaching kids to wear deodorant can be tough, but this natural option—free from harsh chemicals—will help them get into the habit. It features a lightweight, water-based formula that goes on without feeling greasy. It also swipes on clear, preventing unwanted clothing stains. Application: Roll-on | Size: 2.53 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Baking soda and arrowroot Best in a Jar: Oyin Funk Butter Natural Deodorant Courtesy of Oyin Handmade View On Oyinhandmade.com Pros No aluminum chloride or hydroxide Cons Uses coconut oil (a comedogenic) Essential oils may irritate skin Baking soda may irritate some The cream-to-powder Oyin Funk Butter Natural Deodorant stops stink for up to 24 hours—combining baking soda, vegetable powders, and kaolin clay to naturally fight odor. Cornstarch and flour powders are used as an antiperspirant, and you can choose from a few scent varieties, including mango, black cedar fig, and unscented. Application: Jar | Size: 3 ounces | Odor-eliminating Ingredients: Baking soda, vegetable powders, and kaolin clay Final Verdict If you are looking for a natural deodorant that can work for everyone in your household, Native Natural, Vegan Deodorant (view at Amazon) is a good option. It also comes in plenty of scents and is cruelty-free. If you're always on the go, the Megababe Rosy Pits Deodorant Wipes (view at Amazon) are a great, portable option for when you're finishing up a gym session, going straight from work to a dinner date, or simply refreshing on a humid day spent outdoors. What to Look for in Natural Deodorant Ingredients Deodorant is designed to eliminate armpit odor, so the one you choose should include natural ingredients like hops, kaolin, eucalyptus, Saccharomyces ferment, or baking soda—neutralizing odor on contact. If you're also looking for an antiperspirant, take note of additions such as cornstarch, which naturally absorb excess moisture. While not necessary for everyone, ingredients that moisturize and hydrate, like shea butter and aloe, could also be good to note. Most importantly, natural deodorants should exclusively include natural ingredients, so steer clear of ones with aluminum, propylene glycol, and parabens. Application Deodorants come in many forms including spray, roll-on, and lotion versions. There's no single application method that works best, so find one that fits your lifestyle. Type Deodorants don't stop sweat—antiperspirants do. So, if you’re a heavy sweater, you’ll want the latter, which means ingredients that help handle wetness, including baking soda, arrowroot, and tapioca starch. Frequently Asked Questions Is natural deodorant better for you? Some people consider natural deodorants "better" because they're usually free from parabens, sulfates, and harmful chemicals. They also don't include aluminum—an ingredient that sparks controversy. "It's thought that [natural deodorants] might reduce the risk of cancer and Alzheimer's—diseases associated with standard deodorant," says Dr. Mariwalla.She reiterates that there is no concrete proof behind the point, so to say that it's "better" may be inaccurate. Instead, she says that it's just another alternative. Does natural deodorant work and how do I transition to natural deodorant? Some first-time natural deodorant users say that natural products don't work or make their odor worse. Dr. Mariwalla explains that most antiperspirants do a good job at masking sweat and odor, so the transition might take time. “Whenever you switch products in the underarm area it can alter the bacterial milieu of the skin temporarily which can result in more odor or at least an odor you may not be used to," she said. She recommends testing the product for two to four weeks before deciding if natural deodorant is a good fit.Dr. Brown agrees, saying that your body might need an adjustment period to natural ingredients, along with time to release the buildup from standard deodorant. "During that time, pay attention to the way your skin is reacting to the ingredients in the deodorant," she advises. If you start to experience itching, a rash, or tenderness, stop using the product and seek counsel from a dermatologist. Does natural deodorant expire? Like all skincare products, natural deodorants have a shelf life, but the exact amount of time will depend on your particular product. A good rule of thumb is that many natural deodorants last between six and 12 months once opened. Why do natural deodorants sometimes give me a rash? Natural deodorants are often formulated with baking soda, sodium bicarbonate, and essentials oils for fragrance. “While baking soda and sodium bicarbonate will neutralize body odor, the formulation is alkaline and the skin’s natural pH is neutral, which can cause skin irritation,” explains Dr. Brown, noting that essential oils can also cause irritation for sensitive skin. Why Trust Verywell Fit Rozalynn S. Frazier is an award-winning, multimedia journalist with more than 20 years of experience reporting on health and fitness. She is also a NASM-certified personal trainer and an avid exerciser, who routinely puts wellness tools and fitness gear through its paces to help access which products are worthy of praise. She has created content for SELF, Men’s Health, Real Simple, Health, Essence, Cosmopolitan, Livestrong.com, among others. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Get one simple hack every day to make your life healthier. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit 2 Sources Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Breastcancer.org. Exposure to Chemicals in Cosmetics. National Cancer Institute. Antiperspirants/Deodorants and Breast Cancer.