Searching for an effective natural deodorant that actually works? With so many natural deodorant brands on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which one is right for you.
This comprehensive guide compares the top 10 best natural deodorants of 2023 based on ingredients, effectiveness, scent, feel and value. We’ve tested and reviewed the leading aluminum-free, baking soda-free, non-toxic deodorants to help you make an informed decision.
Outline of the Key Things We’ll Cover in This Guide:
Introduction
- Overview of natural deodorants
- Pros and cons of natural deodorants vs antiperspirants
- How natural deodorants work
- What to look for when choosing a natural deodorant
Reviews of the 10 Best Natural Deodorants
- Schmidt’s Deodorant
- Native Deodorant
- Each & Every Aluminum-Free Deodorant
- Myro Deodorant
- Kopari Aluminum-Free Deodorant
- Humankind Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
- Sam’s Natural Deodorant
- Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant
- Tom’s of Maine Natural Deodorant
- Primal Pit Paste All-Natural Deodorant
For each deodorant:
- Overview of brand
- Key features and benefits
- Ingredients
- Scent options
- Application
- Effectiveness and protection
- Texture and feel
- Price and value
- Pros and cons
Comparison Chart of the Top Natural Deodorants
Detailed side-by-side comparison chart analyzing the key factors:
- Brand
- Ingredients
- Scent Options
- Texture/Feel
- Application
- Wetness/Moisture Protection
- Odor Protection
- Price Per Ounce
- Pros
- Cons
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Natural Deodorant
Tips and guidelines covering:
- Ingredient safety
- Scent
- Application method
- Wetness protection
- Odor protection
- Texture preference
- Sensitive skin
FAQ About Natural Deodorants
Answers to the most frequently asked questions:
- Are natural deodorants safe?
- Do natural deodorants really work?
- What’s the difference between natural deodorant and antiperspirant?
- Why does natural deodorant make me smell worse?
- How long does it take for natural deodorant to start working?
- Can I use natural deodorant if I have sensitive skin?
The Bottom Line
- Final takeaways
- Our top overall picks
Introduction to Natural Deodorants
If you’re seeking a natural alternative to conventional antiperspirant deodorants, you’re not alone. A growing number of people are making the switch to natural deodorants due to concerns over antiperspirant ingredients like aluminum, parabens and artificial fragrances.
Natural deodorants provide odor protection using plant-based ingredients like essential oils, baking soda and magnesium hydroxide. They allow sweat to flow freely rather than clogging pores like antiperspirants.
Pros of Natural Deodorants:
- Free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates and artificial fragrances
- Safer ingredients for sensitive skin
- Let pores breathe naturally
- Wash off easily after use
- Often have pleasant natural scents
Cons of Natural Deodorants:
- May need more frequent reapplication
- Can cause irritation if baking soda doesn’t agree with your skin
- Don’t prevent sweating like antiperspirants
- May leave white residue on clothes
- Take 2-4 weeks for body to adjust to new product
When making the switch, be patient and give your body time to adapt. It can take 2-4 weeks for natural deodorant to start working effectively as your body detoxes from antiperspirants. Follow application tips and reapply as needed until finding your perfect product match.
With some trial and error, you can find an excellent natural deodorant that keeps odor and wetness in check while avoiding harsh chemicals.
Now let’s dive into reviews of the top 10 best natural deodorants of 2023!
Reviews of the 10 Best Natural Deodorants
1. Schmidt’s Deodorant
Overview: Schmidt’s is one of the leading natural deodorant brands, started by a husband and wife team passionate about wellness. Their award-winning deodorants are aluminum-free, vegan and cruelty-free.
Key Features:
- Free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates
- Uses food-grade ingredients like essential oils and plant butters
- Gluten-free, vegan formula
- Cardboard packaging and tubes made partly from recycled materials
Ingredients: Baking soda, arrowroot, shea butter, coconut oil, essential oils
Scents: Jasmine Tea, Rose + Vanilla, Bergamot + Lime, Fragrance Free, Charcoal + Magnesium
Application: Glides on smooth, absorbs well without residue. Some formulas are softer or harder.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Provides excellent wetness and odor protection. Lasts all day even through workouts.
Texture: Light, non-greasy. Leaves little to no white residue.
Price: $$$. Mid-range pricing from $10-$15 per stick.
Pros
- Long-lasting odor + wetness protection
- Nice scents, not overpowering
- Smooth easy application
- Limited residue
- Gender neutral branding/packaging
Cons
- Jar packaging lets air in, can dry out
- Leaves minor residue on black clothes
- Not as budget-friendly
Bottom Line: With proven 24-hour defense against odor and sweat, Schmidt’s is one of our top picks for effective natural deodorant.
2. Native Deodorant
Overview: Native creates aluminum-free deodorant inspired by simple, “native” ingredients. Their plastic-free packaging makes it an eco-friendly choice.
Key Features:
- Free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, talc
- Vegan, cruelty-free formula
- Recyclable paperboard tube packaging
- 1% of sales donated to environmental causes
Ingredients: Baking soda, tapioca starch, plant oils, vitamin E, shea butter, essential oils
Scents: Coconut & Vanilla, Cucumber & Mint, Lavender & Rose, Eucalyptus & Mint, Unscented
Application: Creamy smooth texture applies easily without tugging or pulling.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Keeps odor and wetness at bay all day. May need touch ups in very hot/humid weather.
Texture: Light, quick absorbing cream. Leaves minimal visible residue.
Price: $$ Affordable at $12 per stick.
Pros:
- Pleasant natural scents
- Smooth easy glide on application
- Eco-friendly paper packaging
- Gender neutral branding
Cons:
- Scent fades faster than some competitors
- Not as strong for heavy sweating
Bottom Line: With a deliciously light scent and eco-friendly ethos, Native makes a great natural deodorant for daily wear.
3. Each & Every Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Overview: Each & Every creates clean, aluminum-free deodorants featuring organic ingredients. Their fun packaging and scents are designed to be inclusive for all.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free
- Organic ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, sunflower seed oil
- Vegan, non-GMO, sustainably sourced
- Gender neutral scents and branding
Ingredients: Arrowroot powder, baking soda, tapioca starch, aloe vera, essential oils
Scents: Sandalwood & Vanilla, Lavender & Cedar, Bergamot & Vetiver, Coconut & Lemongrass, Fragrance Free
Application: Smooth, easy to spread. Goes on clear.
Effectiveness: 3.5 out of 5 stars. Provides decent wetness/odor coverage, but not the strongest.
Texture: Light, fast-absorbing lotion texture. Little to no residue.
Price: $$$ Mid-range pricing, $12 per stick.
Pros
- Organic plant ingredients
- Fun, inclusive branding
- Very smooth application
- No white residue
Cons
- Scent fades faster than some
- Not the strongest protection
Bottom Line: Each & Every offers an effective aluminum-free deodorant with organic ingredients and laidback branding. One of our top picks for sensitive skin.
4. Myro Deodorant
Overview: Myro offers customizable, reusable natural deodorant along with other personal care products. Their aluminum-free formula is vegan, cruelty-free and made in the USA.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free
- Reusable container with compostable refills
- Customizable scents and formulations
- Subscription options available
Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, baking soda, starch, antimicrobial salt, essential oils
Scents: Choose your own single scent or blend. Options like Big Sur Cliffside, Portside Adventure, Garden Dreams.
Application: Super smooth, glides on easily. Insert plastic tube into reusable base.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Provides solid wetness and odor protection.
Texture: Smooth, creamy lotion. Little to no visible residue.
Price: $$ Affordable sample sets, $36 for 2 months supply.
Pros
- Fully customizable scents
- Reduces plastic waste
- Smooth easy application
- Solid 24-hour protection
Cons
- Must order refills regularly
- Scent options can be overwhelming
- Not widely available in stores
Bottom Line: The mix-and-match scents and reusable container make Myro a top eco-friendly pick for natural deodorant.
5. Kopari Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Overview: Kopari offers clean beauty and personal care products like their popular coconut oil deodorant. It’s formulated with nourishing coconut oil and sage extract.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free
- Antibacterial sage extract
- Organic coconut oil soothes and nourishes
- Cruelty-free, vegan
Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, baking soda, tapioca starch, sage extract
Scents: Coconut Beachstone, Coconut Charcoal, Unscented
Application: Coconut oil makes it super smooth and easy to apply.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Controls odor and wetness well for most of the day.
Texture: Soft, creamy coconutty formula. Leaves a bit more residue than some.
Price: $$$$ At $20 per stick, it’s pricier than many competitors.
Pros
- Hydrating coconut oil
- Keeps odor at bay
- Soothing sage extract
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Requires more frequent application
- Leaves more visible residue
- Higher price point
Bottom Line: Kopari harnesses the power of coconut oil in their effective aluminum-free deodorant. The creamy tropical formula makes it a luxurious experience.
6. Humankind Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
Overview: Humankind makes vegan, eco-friendly personal care with plastic-free packaging. Their natural deodorant comes in gender neutral scents.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free
- Cardboard packaging, plastic-free
- Gender neutral scents like Citrus Spice and Lavender Vanilla
- 1% of revenue donated to environmental causes
Ingredients: Arrowroot powder, baking soda, kaolin clay, shea butter, essential oils
Scents: Citrus Spice, Lavender Vanilla, Sea Salt & Sage, Charcoal, Unscented
Application: Glides on easily and smoothly with little tugging.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Keeps odor and wetness at bay all day.
Texture: Smooth, lightweight lotion. Leaves minimal white residue.
Price: $$ Mid-range pricing, $12 per stick.
Pros
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Gender neutral branding
- Provides 24-hour protection
- Limited residue
Cons
- Fragrances could be stronger
- Not widely available offline
Bottom Line: Humankind offers an effective natural deodorant with green packaging and pleasant scents for all genders.
7. Sam’s Natural Deodorant
Overview: Sam’s Natural makes handcrafted deodorants in small batches using natural ingredients like arrowroot powder, essential oils and shea butter.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free
- Handcrafted in small batches
- Uses organic extracts like calendula, St. John’s Wort
- Cruelty-free, vegan friendly
Ingredients: Arrowroot powder, baking soda, organic calendula extract, shea butter, essential oils.
Scents: Unscented, Lavender, Coconut Lime, Lemongrass.
Application: Creamy thick texture needs a good swipe to apply evenly.
Effectiveness: 3 out of 5 stars. Provides moderate odor and moisture protection.
Texture: Thick, creamy lotion. Can leave some residue on clothes.
Price: $ Affordable at around $10 per stick.
Pros
- Organic calendula extract
- Handcrafted small batch
- Gender neutral branding
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Thick texture can be hard to apply
- Leaves more residue
- Scent strength and longevity could improve
Bottom Line: Sam’s uses thoughtful ingredients for a handcrafted, affordable natural deodorant. While not the strongest, it gets the job done.
8. Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant
Overview: Ursa Major’s natural skin care line for men includes their aluminum-free Hoppin’ Fresh deodorant with a crisp bergamot scent.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free
- Uses soothing aloe vera and peppermint
- Invigorating bergamot scent
- Designed for men’s skin
Ingredients: Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, arrowroot starch, baking soda, essential oils.
Scent: Crisp bergamot and cedarwood essential oils.
Application: Smooth, glide on applicator. Goes on clear.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Provides all-day odor and wetness protection.
Texture: Light, quick absorbing cream. Leaves minimal residue.
Price: $$$ Mid-range pricing, $15 for 2.5oz stick.
Pros
- Refreshing bergamot scent
- Aloe helps soothe skin
- Provides long-lasting protection
Cons
- Leaves minor residue on clothes
- Limited scent options
- Not as budget-friendly
Bottom Line: Ursa Major’s bergamot and aloe deodorant provides invigorating odor and wetness defense for active men.
9. Tom’s of Maine Natural Deodorant
Overview: Tom’s of Maine is a leader in natural personal care products including their classic aluminum-free deodorant. It uses natural ingredients and recyclable packaging.
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free
- Recyclable cardboard packaging
- Glycerin helps naturally control wetness
- Unisex scents like Rose and Geranium
Ingredients: Propylene glycol, glycerin, olea Europaea (olive) fruit oil, essential oils.
Scents: Rose and Geranium, Lavender, Citrus and Vanilla, Long Lasting
Application: Creamy, smooth lotion texture applies easily.
Effectiveness: 3.5 out of 5 stars. Decent at controlling odor and wetness but needs frequent reapplication.
Texture: Light, creamy lotion absorbs well without stickiness.
Price: $ Affordable at around $8 per stick.
Pros
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Recyclable cardboard tube
- Unisex branding/scents
- Natural glycerin for moisture control
Cons
- Needs very frequent reapplication
- Scents could be stronger
- Not as effective as some brands
Bottom Line: Tom’s classic natural deodorant gets the job done at an affordable price point, although it requires frequent reapplication throughout the day.
10. Primal Pit Paste All-Natural Deodorant
Overview: Primal Pit Paste offers handmade, all-natural deodorants in fun scents. Their formula is aluminum-free and uses ingredients like arrowroot powder and coconut oil.
Key Features:
- Handmade in small batches
- Aluminum-free, paraben-free
- Organic ingredients like coconut oil
- Recyclable cardboard tube
**In
Ingredients: Arrowroot powder, baking soda, coconut oil, shea butter, essential oils
Scents: Lavender, Orange Creamsicle, Jasmine, Cedarwood & Citrus, Unscented
Application: Thick texture needs a good swipe to spread evenly.
Effectiveness: 4 out of 5 stars. Provides effective odor and wetness protection throughout the day.
Texture: Thick, creamy formula. Can leave some residue on clothes.
Price: $$ Mid-range pricing around $12 per stick.
Pros
- Fun natural scents
- Organic coconut oil
- Handcrafted small batch
- Provides all-day protection
Cons
- Thick texture can be hard to spread
- Leaves more residue
- Limited unscented options
Bottom Line: Primal Pit Paste handcrafts natural deodorant with funky scents and effective 24-hour defense against odor and sweat.
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Comparison Chart of the Top Natural Deodorants
| Brand | Ingredients | Scents | Texture/Feel | Application | Wetness Protection | Odor Protection | Price Per Ounce | Pros | Cons |
|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|
| Schmidt’s | Baking soda, arrowroot, shea butter, coconut oil, essential oils | Jasmine Tea, Rose + Vanilla, Bergamot + Lime, Fragrance Free, Charcoal + Magnesium | Light, non-greasy | Glides on smooth | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $0.63-$1.00 | Long-lasting protection, nice scents, smooth application, minimal residue | Leaves some residue, not budget-friendly |
| Native | Baking soda, tapioca starch, plant oils, vitamin E, shea butter, essential oils | Coconut & Vanilla, Cucumber & Mint, Lavender & Rose, Eucalyptus & Mint, Unscented | Light cream | Creamy, easy to apply | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $0.60 | Pleasant scents, smooth application, eco-friendly packaging | Scent fades, not as strong for heavy sweating |
| Each & Every | Arrowroot powder, baking soda, tapioca starch, aloe vera, essential oils | Sandalwood & Vanilla, Lavender & Cedar, Bergamot & Vetiver, Coconut & Lemongrass, Fragrance Free | Light, fast-absorbing lotion | Smooth, clear application | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | $0.60 | Organic ingredients, smooth application, inclusive branding | Scent fades quickly, not strongest protection |
| Myro | Organic coconut oil, baking soda, starch, antimicrobial salt, essential oils | Customizable single or blend scents | Smooth, creamy lotion | Super smooth glide on | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $0.45-$0.90 | Fully customizable, reusable container, smooth application | Must order refills, overwhelming options |
| Kopari | Organic coconut oil, baking soda, tapioca starch, sage extract | Coconut Beachstone, Coconut Charcoal, Unscented | Soft, creamy coconut | Very smooth from coconut oil | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $1.33 | Hydrating coconut oil, cruelty-free | Requires frequent application, leaves more residue, expensive |
| Humankind | Arrowroot powder, baking soda, kaolin clay, shea butter, essential oils | Citrus Spice, Lavender Vanilla, Sea Salt & Sage, Charcoal, Unscented | Smooth, lightweight lotion | Easy glide on | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $0.60 | Eco-friendly packaging, gender neutral | Fragrances could be stronger, not widely available |
| Sam’s Natural | Arrowroot powder, baking soda, organic calendula extract, shea butter, essential oils | Unscented, Lavender, Coconut Lime, Lemongrass | Thick, creamy lotion | Needs good swipe to apply evenly | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | $0.50 | Organic ingredients, handcrafted, affordable | Thick texture, more residue, less effective |
| Ursa Major | Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, arrowroot starch, baking soda, essential oils | Crisp bergamot and cedarwood | Light, quick absorbing cream | Smooth glide on applicator | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $0.60 | Refreshing bergamot scent, soothing aloe | Leaves some residue, limited scents, pricier |
| Tom’s of Maine | Propylene glycol, glycerin, olive oil, essential oils | Rose and Geranium, Lavender, Citrus and Vanilla, Long Lasting | Light, creamy lotion | Creamy, smooth application | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | $0.27-$0.45 | Budget-friendly, unisex, natural glycerin | Needs frequent reapplication, weaker protection |
| Primal Pit Paste | Arrowroot powder, baking soda, coconut oil, shea butter, essential oils | Lavender, Orange Creamsicle, Jasmine, Cedarwood & Citrus, Unscented | Thick, creamy formula | Needs swipe to spread evenly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $0.60-$0.75 | Fun scents, organic ingredients, handmade | Thick texture, more residue, limited unscented |
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Natural Deodorant
When selecting a natural deodorant, here are some key factors to consider:
Ingredient Safety
Look for formulas free of:
- Aluminum: Blocks sweat glands
- Parabens: Potential hormone disruptor
- Phthalates: Linked to health issues
- Artificial fragrances: Can irritate skin
Seek out plant oils, butters and essential oils instead. Make sure baking soda doesn’t irritate your skin.
Scent
Choose your favorite scent like lavender, citrus, coconut, vanilla, etc. Seek gender neutral options if preferred. Test unscented versions if sensitive to fragrance.
Application Method
Choose stick, cream or spray based on personal preference. Stick deodorants glide on easily. Creams are smooth but can get messy. Sprays dry fast but don’t always apply evenly.
Wetness Protection
If heavy sweating is a concern, seek extra strength options with baking soda to absorb moisture. Alternatives like magnesium hydroxide, tapioca starch and kaolin clay also help.
Odor Protection
Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and tea tree naturally combat bacteria that causes odor. Baking soda also neutralizes smells. Look for 24-48 hour protection.
Texture
Lotion or cream formulas absorb quickly if you don’t like sticky or greasy feel. Coconut oil options provide hydration but can be oily. Powder finish deodorants prevent residue.
Sensitive Skin
Avoid baking soda if it causes irritation. Seek soothing aloe, oatmeal or chamomile. Do a patch test before applying new products to skin.
FAQ About Natural Deodorants
1. Are natural deodorants safe?
Natural deodorants are generally safe and free of concerning ingredients like aluminum, parabens and phthalates found in conventional antiperspirants. But always check labels for sensitivities. Baking soda can cause skin irritation for some. Start with small amounts when trying a new natural deodorant to check for reactions.
2. Do natural deodorants really work?
When chosen well and given time to adjust, natural deodorants absolutely work to neutralize odors and absorb moisture. During the transition period, your body needs 2-4 weeks to detox from antiperspirants before natural deodorant works optimally. Reapply as needed at first. Over time, you’ll find the right natural deodorant match with lasting protection.
3. What’s the difference between natural deodorant and antiperspirant?
Natural deodorants use plant ingredients to absorb sweat and neutralize odors. Antiperspirants use aluminum to block sweat ducts. Natural deodorants allow some sweat for a healthy pore environment. Antiperspirants stop sweat and can cause buildup in glands.
4. Why does natural deodorant make me smell worse?
This is temporary as your armpits detox from years of antiperspirant buildup. Power through for 2-4 weeks as sweat carries away antiperspirant residue. The odor will dissipate as your body adjusts. Using a detoxifying charcoal natural deodorant can help absorb some of the initial smell.
5. How long does it take for natural deodorant to start working?
It can take 2-4 weeks for your body to adjust from conventional antiperspirants to natural deodorants. Be patient and let the detox happen. Reapply natural deodorant as needed until finding the right product and rhythm. After the adjustment period, natural deodorant will work effectively.
6. Can I use natural deodorant if I have sensitive skin?
Those with sensitive skin can absolutely use natural deodorant safely. Avoid baking soda formulas which can cause irritation. Seek soothing options with oatmeal, aloe vera or chamomile. Do a patch test before applying a new natural deodorant all over. Unscented versions are great for sensitivities.
The Bottom Line
We hope this guide helped demystify the world of natural deodorants! Here are our top takeaways:
- Make the switch gradually and give your body 2-4 weeks to adjust as you detox from antiperspirants.
- Experiment with different natural deodorant brands and scents to find your perfect match.
- Apply natural deodorant generously and reapply as needed while transitioning from antiperspirants.
- Check labels and avoid conventional deodorant ingredients like aluminum, parabens and phthalates.
- If irritation occurs, stop usage and try a sensitive skin formula instead.
Our top overall picks are Schmidt’s for proven long-lasting odor/wetness protection and Native for a delicious light scent and eco-friendly ethos. But don’t be afraid to try a few options – your perfect natural deodorant match is out there!
