Aluminum-Free Deodorants That Don’t Suck
Regular antiperspirant gives me hives. Sad. That’s how I began this aluminum-free, natural deodorant side quest. Here are five decent options (I’ve tried a lot).
👉 Remember: deodorant prevents odor, it doesn’t stop sweating.
SheaMoisture Whole Body Deodorant Stick
This is my current favorite. It’s moisturizing, doesn’t leave white marks on my shirts, and it seems to last for a whole day. The 72-hour claim is an exaggeration. ($9.97 at Walmart)
Each & Every Natural Fragrance Deodorant
She’s a pricey bitch, but she comes in a lot of great scents. This deodorant is smooth and moisturizing. I find I use it up extremely quickly due to the soft consistency. ($22 at Ulta)
Dove Whole Body Deo Anti-Chafe Deodorant Stick
This is probably my favorite scent of the bunch. It’s a dry formula, and I find it dries out my armpits after a couple of days. I need to alternate it with a different brand. I haven’t tried the anti-chafe claim. ($9.98 at Walmart)
Megababe Geo Deo Daily Deodorant Stick
A baking soda-based formula makes this stick unique. It works well, but it goes on thick and white. It tends to get all over my shirts. ($13.97 at Walmart)
Native Aluminum Free Deodorant
Most people have tried this one. I find it works well for six months or so, then I need to switch to a different formula. The wide scent range is by far the best part. ($12.97 at Walmart)
MY TIPS
Here’s what I’ve learned on this hellish armpit journey:
Natural deodorants will never work as well as traditional deodorant and antiperspirant combos. Accept it.
Try alternating formulas every four to six months. I find that if I don’t, the deodorant becomes less effective over time.
Natural doesn’t mean irritation-free. You can react to anything. Formulas that contain baking soda are a common culprit.
Sweat on, cult members. 🥵
