{"id":14666,"date":"2022-07-21T12:31:00","date_gmt":"2022-07-21T19:31:00","guid":{"rendered":"https://www.realself.com\/news\/?p=14666"},"modified":"2023-08-07T13:58:41","modified_gmt":"2023-08-07T20:58:41","slug":"best-natural-deodorants","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https://www.realself.com\/news\/best-natural-deodorants","title":{"rendered":"The 11 Best Natural Deodorants (That Actually Work)"},"content":{"rendered":"

What you use to keep body odor at bay is a highly personal choice, whether you’ve been using the same antiperspirant for years or have been experimenting with natural deodorants. And if you’ve been leaning towards the latter for peace of mind, you’re not alone. Aluminum-free deodorants are newly popular as people have become increasingly concerned with the ingredients in their personal- and skin-care products (although the American Cancer Society<\/a> has debunked the claim that aluminum in antiperspirants is linked to breast cancer) and it can be a worthwhile option if you’d rather be safe than sorry—or just looking for more natural ingredients for odor protection.<\/p>

That said, it’s not as easy as swapping out your usual antiperspirant for a natural deo and getting the same, all-day freshness in the armpits. According to Dr. Kristin Baird<\/a>, a board-certified dermatologist in Longmont, Colorado, it takes approximately 30 days for most people’s bodies to adjust to natural deodorant. “When we start using natural deodorant, the bacteria in the underarms changes,” she says. “It’s common to notice an increase in sweat and body odor while the bacteria on the skin adjusts.”<\/p>

Aluminum-based antiperspirants work by plugging the pores in the underarms, which prevents sweat from coming out—and the less you sweat, the less you smell, Dr. Baird explains, since B.O. is caused by sweat interacting with odor-causing bacteria on the skin. Those of us who have come to depend on aluminum as an antiperspirant will need some time to detox from the compound and allow the pores and sweat glands to open up and breathe, says Dr. Baird.<\/p>

But natural deodorant isn’t for everyone. “Just because a product claims to be ‘all-natural’ does not mean it contains no chemicals and will not cause skin irritation,” says Dr. Baird. “People with sensitive skin can experience redness and inflammation from some ingredients in natural deodorant.” (If that’s you, avoid applying right after shaving and trying dabbing the deodorant on versus swiping.) She adds that those with hyperhidrosis<\/a>, or excessive sweating, likely won’t find natural options to be effective either.<\/p>

To make the 30 days more bearable—for both yourself and those around you—Dr. Baird recommends using a natural antibacterial soap in the shower, drinking lots of water, and regularly sweating through exercise. With that in mind, these are the best natural deodorants that made the cut.<\/p>

Best texture:<\/strong> Myro Plant-Powered Deodorant in Chill Wave<\/a> ($10)<\/h2>

The texture of this refillable deodorant stick is the closest to that of an invisible gel antiperspirant; it glides on like silk and leaves no white marks or clumps, which can’t be said of the others. Aloe vera allows for extra comfort, while essential oils power its scents—which are sophisticated without being overpowering—instead of the usual synthetic fragrance. Chill Wave is a blend of cucumber, jasmine, and spearmint that feels refreshing even in the summer.<\/p>

Best baking soda alternative:<\/strong> Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant<\/strong><\/a> ($16)<\/strong><\/h2>

This gel deodorant harnesses the power of alpha hydroxy acids to control bacteria; AHAs create an acidic environment that’s inhospitable to bacteria. Plus, they also have a mild exfoliating effect, which can help visibly brighten dark underarms and keep ingrown hairs from forming. If that sounds irritating, no sweat: it also has hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to hydrate and calm.<\/p>

\n