Decreasing the amount of chemicals we are exposed to.

Most anti-perspirants are aluminum-based to prevent certain glands from producing sweat.  They also often contain Propylene Glycol which is derived from petrochemicals and can be an irritant and neurotoxin.  It makes sense that we should look for a deodorant with as simple an ingredient list as possible.  A common concern many consumers have about switching to a natural deodorant is that without the chemicals, it would be impossible to prevent underarm odor and have any sweat-wicking abilities.

Ingredients that an effective natural deodorant should contain are baking soda, arrowroot or magnesium which are plant-based and mineral-derived and neutralize acidic odor-causing bacteria. Cocoa and shea butter are also extracted from naturally grown plants.  They help moisturize and soften the feel of your skin and prevent irritation.

This natural deodorant was rated very highly in a  2021 survey.  Corpus Natural Plant-Based Deodorant is vegan, cruelty-free, non-toxic, and made in the U.S.  It is made with naturally derived enzymes and plant extracts.  It is a water-based formula and to control odor it uses pink lemon and orange blossom instead of baking soda.  It smells lovely. $24.00 for 2.6 oz.

Kopari is an aluminum-free deodorant that works well in protecting against odor.  It is clear and lightly coconut scented.  It is 100% plant based.  $10.50 for 2 fluid oz.

The best drugstore nominee is Secret’s Aluminum-Free with Essential Oils, Lavender & Lemon.  Many of the large deodorant brands have followed the popularity of the boutique natural brands and come out with their own versions that are free of aluminum, toxins, and alcohol.  This deodorant has a subtle scent and keeps underarms dry.  $9.00 for 2.6 oz.

Megababe is all the rage this year.  Influencers have discovered it and its Instagram followers now number 157,000.  Megababe Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant has a fresh rosy scent that is very popular.  It is aluminum-free, made with natural ingredients to include sage and green tea.  $22.50 for 2.6 fl. Oz.

The other popular deodorant by this brand is Green DEO which contains arrowroot that controls moisture. $16.99 for 2.6 oz. at Target.

This deodorant has a clean multi-acid and multi-mineral treatment for daily odor and moisture control without using baking soda, aluminum, or chemical fragrance.  It has AHA/Glycolic acid which neutralizes odors.  $20.00 for 1.7 oz.