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The 13 Best Aluminum-Free Deodorants That Actually Work
Nothing smells as good as clean feels.
Summertime should be about laying poolside with a colorful drink. However, on most days it’s a sweaty, sticky mess, especially if you forgot to swipe on your aluminum-free deodorant in the morning. For a long time, we were told that natural deodorants aren’t as effective as chemical options, but that’s not entirely true. Unlike our favorite antiperspirants, which require aluminum to block sweat, the best deodorants shouldn’t require strong ingredients to get the job done. Like a beautiful summertime perfume, a deodorant’s job is to mask unpleasant scents.
Using a natural, aluminum-free deodorant will not only prevent unwanted B.O., but it’s also a healthier option for your entire body. Brian Nourian, co-founder of Le Jolie Medi Spa, tells us that “aluminum gets into your lymphatic system and can disrupt hormone regulation and potentially lead to unwanted health issues.” It’s also important to note that the false myth that aluminum can cause breast cancer is just that–a myth. Either way, your underarms go through a lot, from shaving to waxing to chafing, and sweating–the list goes on. Treating it as gently as you can (like by using a natural deodorant) is key to preventing any rashes, irritation, or ingrown hairs.
Our favorite aluminum-free deodorants in 2023
Plus, using a natural deodorant will help you smell good all day, so you don’t have to cower in fear that a co-worker might try to give you a nice hug. Here, find 13 of the best aluminum-free deodorants on the market that actually work. We chose deodorants that last throughout the day, have impeccable ratings, and of course, use body-friendly ingredients.
Pros
- Clinically proven for effective odor protection
Cons
- May have to reapply multiple times throughout the day
If your goal is to smell delicious from dusk 'till dawn, this deodorant will get it done. It also comes in a myriad of other scents, so you can find the one that speaks to you. You'll be amazed at how long the scent lasts.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I don't think I’ve ever written an Amazon review before but it's rare that I'm this happy with a purchase and I had to give credit for how psyched I am with this deodorant.”
| Size | 2.65 oz |
|---|
Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant
Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant
Pros
- Completely invisible formula
Cons
- Fragrance may not last all day
For a completely invisible formula, this eucalyptus-scented deodorant stays away from alcohol and harsh chemicals, but still battles body odor all day long.
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “It's genuinely a struggle to find effective deodorant that does not cause a reaction, and this one absolutely has done IT!”
| Size | 2.6 oz |
|---|
evolvetogether Havana Natural Deodorant
evolvetogether Havana Natural Deodorant
Pros
- Plastic-free
Cons
- May not work well for sweatier people
From the makers of your favorite face masks, this plastic-free deodorant actually absorbs sweat instead of only masking it. It also has a clear formula, so you won't look down and see white streaks on all your clothing ever again.
Evolvetogether rating: 4.9/5 stars
An Evolvetogether reviewer says: “I love this all natural product as well as the packaging. No chemicals. Nice and light. Amazing.”
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Each & Every Citrus & Vetiver Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Each & Every Citrus & Vetiver Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Pros
- Masks strong B.O.
Cons
- Pricey
Even the strongest B.O. can't be detected when you have this deodorant on. With nine different scents, including unscented, you can find the perfect one that matches your perfume.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I put this on in the morning and it lasts all day, no problems. I don't sweat as much, so it's effective as an antiperspirant, at least for me. I was impressed that at the end of the day I wouldn't feel gross and notice my armpits smelling.”
| Size | 2.5 oz |
|---|
Vanicream Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Vanicream Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Pros
- Catered toward sensitive skin
Cons
- Application may feel sticky due to gel formula
For people with extremely sensitive skin, this deodorant is free of all the irritants present in traditional formulas; it doesn't contain any dyes, scents, clays, or minerals. Instead, you'll be left with only the good stuff and pleasant-smelling underarms.
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I find it gives all day odor-free protection with zero irritation.”
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel
Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel
Pros
- Brightens dark underarms
Cons
- Reapplication may be needed
This gel formula prevents odors, brightens dark underarms, and soothes any bumps or irritation. If you suffer from chronic ingrown hairs, this deodorant is the antidote.
Sephora rating: 4.3/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This deodorant is a game-changer. I have searched everywhere for a deodorant that doesn't irritate and darken my armpits. After the first application the skin just outside of my armpits was silky smooth like a baby’s bottom! I also see the skin lightening in the areas I applied. Finally found one product to combat perspiration, skin discoloration and maintain my skin's natural texture.”
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Dove Aluminum-Free Coconut and Pink Jasmine Deodorant
Dove Aluminum-Free Coconut and Pink Jasmine Deodorant
Pros
- Provides up to 24 hours of odor protection
Cons
- Does not prevent sweat stains
If you've been using Dove deodorant for years, it's time to give it an upgrade. This three-pack doesn't contain alcohol or aluminum but promises to leave your underarms smelling like jasmine and coconut for up to 24 hours. Sounds like a dream to me.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Very smooth, great protection and lasts a long time.”
| Size | 2.6 oz/ea |
|---|
Oars + Alps Aluminum Free Deodorant
Oars + Alps Aluminum Free Deodorant
Pros
- Made without aluminum, alcohol, and baking soda
Cons
- Takes a while for it to fully stop body odor
Nourian recommends looking for a deodorant with clean ingredients is key to ensuring your pores won’t clog. This deodorant never uses aluminum, alcohol, or baking soda. But it does use incredible natural ingredients and prebiotics that fades body odor over time.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Awesome deodorant, I typically get itchy and hate wearing it but this feels like it's not even there which I love. Smells great.”
| Size | 2.6 oz |
|---|
Beautycounter The Clean Deo
Pros
- Does not leave behind white residue
Cons
- May not work well with sensitive skin
This refillable deodorant is so beautiful that you'll want to display it in a prime location. With three incredible scents to choose from, it covers unwanted smells, hydrates and soothes the underarms, and absorbs any excess moisture throughout the day.
Beautycounter rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Beautycounter reviewer says: “FINALLY! A deodorant that is all the things and more. It smells amazing, works like a boss and goes on clean with zero residue. Totally worth it!”
| Size | 2.11 oz |
|---|
megababe Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant
megababe Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant
Pros
- Goes on clear
Cons
- Slow drying
Unwanted smells and irritation are some of the most common underarm complaints. This deodorant works against those two common woes by using corn starch, healthy butters, and non-irritating scents to make your pits smell like a bouquet of roses.
Ulta rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “Great purchase. I have a sensitivity to baking soda, which is in most aluminum free deodorants. No sensitivity to Megababe Rosy Pits.”
| Size | 2.6 oz |
|---|
Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant
Pros
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- You will need to reapply
This deodorant treats your underarms the way you treat your skin: with AHA acids to brighten and de-odorize, hyaluronic acid to impart moisture to the skin, and aloe vera juice to soothe any irritation.
Sephora rating: 4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “ALL and I mean ALL natural deodorants make me smell worse except this one. 10/10 will keep you smelling good.”
| Size | 2.4 oz |
|---|
Beekman 1802 Milk Stick All-Day Odor Protection Invisible Deodorant
Beekman 1802 Milk Stick All-Day Odor Protection Invisible Deodorant
Pros
- Goes on clear
Cons
- May melt in warmer conditions
This product is all about treating your skin instead of covering up unpleasant scents. You'll be amazed at how soft your underarms feel after using this a few times.
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “This is expensive BUT one stick has lasted me over a year!! I think it smells great and works great!!”
| Size | 2.5 oz |
|---|
Tom's of Maine Long-Lasting Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
Tom's of Maine Long-Lasting Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
Pros
- Long-lasting
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
This deodorant never uses artificial fragrance to cover up B.O. Instead, it uses a blend of hops and tea tree to make your underarms smell good Plus, Toms donates 10 percent of profits to wonderful causes.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I love this! The scent is great and it lasts all day plus it is so much better for you than other deodorants with their toxic chemicals. Highly recommend!”
| Size | 2.25 oz |
|---|
Meet the Experts
Dr. Karan Lal is a celebrity dermatologist and director of pediatric dermatology and cosmetic surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Brian Nourian is the co-founder of Le Jolie Medi Spa.
Is aluminum bad for you?
“Aluminum salts are used to plug up the sweat glands in antiperspirants to reduce sweating,” says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. For a long time, there were concerns that aluminum in beauty products could be linked to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. However, according to Dr. Lal, that link has yet to be proven. Generally speaking, antiperspirants–products formulated to reduce sweat–are more likely to contain aluminum than deodorants, which are created to mask the scent of sweat.
Why should you use gentle deodorants?
Even though it's still unclear if aluminum-free deodorants are much healthier for you, gentle formulas for deodorants are usually a better choice for anyone with sensitive skin. Our underarms go through a lot–shaving or waxing, constant chafing, etc—so formulas with gentle, clean ingredients reduce the risk of irritation.
Why trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund tested a few top-rated aluminum-free deodorants and pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.
Tatjana Freund is Hearst's Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor, covering beauty, fashion and more across multiple brands. Previously, she worked at ELLE.com and Marie Claire. She's a fan of whiskey neat, podcasts that give her nightmares, and one time Zoë Kravitz laughed at a joke she made.
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