"With so many of us opting for beauty products sans harsh chemicals, it’s no wonder that deodorant has finally made the list. But before we understand what to look for in a deodorant, it’s important to know the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant.
Deodorants are meant to neutralize odor by killing the bacteria that causes it or by simply masking it. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, block the sweat glands in order to prevent perspiring in the first place. The problem with many antiperspirants is that they contain harsh chemicals like aluminum, which absorb into the skin and may have negative effects on your health. Since there is still a lot we don’t know about the effects of aluminum, it’s understandable that many of us are going the natural route to avoid these harsh chemicals altogether.
The first step in opting for an aluminum-free deodorant is making sure you’re actually selecting a deodorant rather than an antiperspirant. Luckily, there are plenty of deodorants that are truly effective without using harsh chemicals. Here are the top 15 aluminum-free deodorants we recommend:
Our Beauty Editor swears by this deodorant because it has everything you want: keeps your underarms smooth thanks to the coconut oil, keeps you smelling good all day long, and never causes irritation.
Deodorant is about more than just your underarms, and this powder was made for deodorizing and reducing sweat everywhere, from between the legs, behind the knees, behind the neck, under boobs, and more.
Thanks to coconut oil and jojoba oil, this deodorant actually keeps your underarms moisturized, while a little bit of baking soda to keep sweat and odor in check.
This AHA formula is completely clear and stain-free, leaving your underarms in tip-top shape. AHAs exfoliate and prevent odor before it even starts rather than masking it, so if you struggle with B.O., this is your pick. Plus, this comes in scented and fragrance-free.
If you want your deodorant to smell as good as your perfume, this is the best-smelling deodorant on the market—trust us.
This is a favorite amongst our editors because it's accessible at Target, inexpensive, and the scents are so good.
Recycled, sustainable packaging that's actually cute surrounds this clear, effective deodorant that's also plant-based.
This is the classic inexpensive Dove formula we all love without the ingredients you don't.
Thanks to the baking soda-free formula, this is made with sensitive skin that often gets irritated with other natural deodorant formulas.
Thanks to the salt base in this spray, it's fast-dying and odor-protecting. Plus, the fennel and patchouli scent is invigorating after those early morning workout classes.
If you want to make your perfume center stage, opt for a fragrance-free deodorant like this one that still gets rid of odor without adding another fragrance.
Instead of covering your odor up, this actually prevents odor from popping up in the first place, and it works even better as you use it over time.
These on-the-go wipes are perfect for keeping in your bag because the package is so thin and small. Our editor keeps a package of these in her desk at the office at all times.
Keep this stashed in your workout bag for the sweatiest workouts. This keeps your underarms dry all day long with a velvet-y smooth finish that keeps sweat and odor at bay.
For the fashion-obsessed, keep this completely invisible deodorant in your closet to wear with your cutest clothes without worrying about stains and yellowing.