The 15 Best Natural Deodorants of 2022

A quick look at the best natural deodorants

• Best natural spray deodorant: Distilled Bath & Body Pit Liquor Whiskey Vanilla Deodorant
• Best plastic-free natural deodorant: Native Plastic-Free Deodorant
• Best oil-free natural spray deodorant: Weleda Citrus Deodorant
• Best natural crystal deodorant: Energy Balance Crystal Deodorant
• Best baking soda-free natural deodorant: megababe Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant
• Best exfoliating natural deodorant: Kosas Sport Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant
• Best scented natural deodorant stick: Meow Meow Tweet Lavender Bergamot Deodorant Stick
• Best solid natural deodorant: Ethique Rustic Solid Deodorant
• Best travel-friendly natural deodorant: Ursa Major Sublime Sage Deodorant
• Best charcoal natural deodorant: Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant, Charcoal and Magnesium
• Best alcohol-free natural deodorant: Malin+Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant
• Best natural deodorant for sensitive skin: Magsol Magnesium Deodorant, Sandalwood
• Best natural deodorant cream: Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream
• Best natural deodorant gel: Nécessaire THE DEODORANT GEL – With 5% AHA
• Best plant-based natural deodorant: Kopari Natural Aluminum-Free Coconut Deodorant

What is natural deodorant?

The natural deodorant market is growing larger.

You might consider trying a natural deodorant if you want an aluminum-free product or find that conventional brands irritate your skin.

Why? Conventional deodorants often contain harsher ingredients. Natural deodorants typically use natural fragrances and ingredients.

“Antiperspirants reduce perspiration, but natural deodorants don’t. They help remove odors. They can either reduce the amount ofbacteria that cause odors or add fragrance to the odors.”

There is a difference between antiperspirant and deodorant.

Benefits of natural deodorant

Natural deodorant has many benefits, not the least of which is its ineffectiveness.

There are a few benefits to making the switch.

• Natural deodorants are usually made with ingredients that are suitable for sensitive skin.
• Natural deodorants are usually free of ingredients that can cause irritation or reactions.
• Many natural deodorants are free of aluminum, which some research has linked to breast cancer.

Natural deodorant lets you sweat the way you want to. Antiperspirants that contain aluminum work by blocking sweat. This helps reduce odor. Natural deodorant can help decrease odor.

You might have a hard time knowing which product will work best for you. We found 15 options that work. Get the details on our picks.

How we chose the best natural deodorants

We searched for products that were free of synthetic or artificial ingredients. We tried to include some eco-friendly options.

The products we chose contained:

• ingredients like coconut oil or alcohol that help stop bacteria from growing
• naturally absorbent ingredients, like baking soda, cornstarch, bamboo, and zinc
• no aluminum, which means they can help neutralize or mask odors but won’t prevent sweating.

We looked online for reviews and tested a few products ourselves.

Healthline’s picks for the best natural deodorants

Best natural spray deodorant

Distilled Bath & Body Pit Liquor Whiskey Vanilla Spray Deodorant

• Price: $$$
• Pros: long lasting bottle
• Cons: on the expensive side
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 100 milliliters (mL)
• Key ingredients: vodka, whiskey, vanilla essential oil

The alcohol base of this spray is made up of alcohol and whiskey, while the essential oil leaves your pits smelling sweet. It is on the pricier side, but one bottle can last up to 4 months.

Spray deodorants like this one apply easily and dry quickly, without leaving a white residue behind. It comes packaged in eco-friendly glass, and you can buy a refill size when your bottle runs dry. Then you can recycle your empties or send them back to the company for reuse.

The reviewers were surprised that the scent of the product was like whiskey.

“It works, even through a workout or long run. It doesn’t stain clothing like oil-based natural deodorants can. It may sting a little when it first starts. It is nonirritating and nondrying.”

Best plastic-free natural deodorant

Native Plastic Free Deodorant

• Price: $
• Pros: eco-friendly packaging, vegan-friendly
• Cons: leaves residue, may stain clothing
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2.65 ounces (oz.)
• Key ingredients: coconut oil, shea butter, baking soda

This coconut oil and shea butter formula glides on smoothly, while tapioca starch and baking soda soak up excess sweat and oil.

You have 10 light, natural scents to choose from, from Coconut & Vanilla to Citrus & Herbal Musk. If you have sensitive skin or want to avoid fragrances, you might prefer the unscented version.

Another perk? The plastic-free packaging won’t add to the burden of single-use plastics. This deodorant comes in a round paperboard tube, and it’s shipped in a recycled paper mailer. If you’d rather shop in person, your local Target may also carry some scents.

It was fairly long- lasting, though you may need to reapply after a long workout or on hot days.

It can leave white marks and oil stains on your clothing, so be careful.

Best oil-free spray natural deodorant

Weleda Citrus Deodorant

• Price: $$$
• Pros: glass bottle is recyclable
• Cons: essential oils may be irritating
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 3.4 oz.
• Key ingredients: alcohol, essential oils

This deodorant spray features an alcohol and water base — no mineral oil, so it won’t stain your clothing. It doesn’t contain parabens or phthalates, which can cause skin irritation for some people.

That said, it does use essential oils for the scent, which some people also find irritating. You may want to patch test first if you’re sensitive to fragrances or have sensitive skin.

Reviewers like the refreshing scent of this deodorant. People say they can get through the day without Stink with a few sprays each morning. It can cause stinging from alcohol.

Best natural crystal deodorant

Energy Balance Crystal Deodorant

Price: $$$
Pros: recyclable, biodegradable container
Cons: you need to moisten before using and dry after using
Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
Paraben-free: yes
Cruelty-free: yes
Size: 120 g
Key ingredients: potassium alum crystal

This is a natural mineral salt and it is used for anti-perspirant. The rock is said to kill some of the organisms that contribute to the disease. It is less likely to cause a negative skin reaction because it is not made with other ingredients.

The crystal deodorant is designed to be used on the planet. The paper label is not composted, while the crystal and cork container is.

The main downside of the drug? It may leave a powdery substance on your skin.

Reviewers say this product lasts a long time. They note that the smell is reduced or eliminated for up to 24 hours when they sweat in the hot weather. Some people swear that this product does nothing for their skin.

Best baking soda-free natural deodorant

megababe Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant

• Price: $
• Pros: glides on clear
• Cons: contains fragrance
• Synthetic fragrance-free: no
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2.6 oz.
• Key ingredients: cornstarch, sage, coconut oil

If you like baby powder freshness, you will like this natural deodorant. If you use alcohol or baking soda, you will likely get irritation on your skin.

The formula’s cornstarch sops up sweat, while glycerin, coconut oil, and vitamin E keep pits moisturized. Sage and green tea help battle bacteria that lead to BO.

Reviewers complain of a rash after using it. It may be due to the plant extracts and essential oils that affect everyone. It is best to do a patch test before trying a new product.

“We found that it didn’t leave white marks on clothing like Native did, but it did last a bit longer.”

Best exfoliating natural deodorant

Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant

• Price: $$
• Pros: improves underarm texture and color
• Cons: users aren’t happy with the packaging
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2.4 oz.
• Key ingredients: AHAs, glycerin, aloe vera

If you want to use the same ingredients on your skin, why not use them on your armpits? That is what this product does.

It features a blend of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) to exfoliate and keep odor at bay. Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera juice help keep things soft and smooth.

Reviewers love the appearance of their skin. Thanks, AHA! They praise how well this is able to remove body odor.

“Some reviewers say that it doesn’t always work on sweating days. The scented version was not liked by others. Many reviewers say the packaging needs improvement since the rollerball gets stuck.”

Best scented natural deodorant stick

Meow Meow Tweet Lavender Bergamot Deodorant Stick

• Price: $
• Pros: compostable tube, mostly organic and fair trade ingredients
• Cons: small size, essential oils may cause irritation
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 1.8 oz.
• Key ingredients: baking soda, arrowroot powder, coconut oil

The scent of this deodorant may make your skin feel good. If they need a pick-me-up, you can also apply this to your neck, chest, and feet.

Coconut oil, cocoa seed butter, and shea fruit butter make the formula silky, while arrowroot powder and baking soda help absorb unwanted moisture. However, heavy sweaters say it’s not enough to get the job done. (Like all the products on this list, this is a deodorant, not an antiperspirant — so it doesn’t keep you from sweating.

This product is certified organic and fair trade.

It had a long- lasting scent from the essential oils, but it also left marks on clothing.

Best solid natural deodorant

Ethique Rustic Solid Deodorant

• Price: $
• Pros: zero-waste, ethically sourced ingredients
• Cons: can get messy
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2.47 oz.
• Key ingredients: magnesium hydroxide, zinc oxide, bamboo

The bar is a zero-waste product because of its bio- ingredients and compostable packaging.

But what’s inside counts, too: It’s made from magnesium hydroxide, zinc oxide (a common sunscreen ingredient), and surprisingly sweat-absorbent bamboo. Lime and cedarwood oils provide the woodsy-citrus scent, which reviewers say tends to fade quickly.

You will have to get used to using a bar for deodorization since it is a different skill to develop. You might find something on your hands.

Still, it lasts a long time. You can also opt for a mini size before committing to the larger bar.

Many reviewers say they have to apply this 2 to 3 times per day for the best results, but that is not the case with many natural deodorants.

Best travel-friendly natural deodorant

Ursa Major Sublime Sage Natural Spray Deodorant

• Price: $$
• Pros: doesn’t stain, portable, vegan-friendly
• Cons: may not last as long
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 1.79 oz.
• Key ingredients: enzymes, sage, alcohol

This is a quick-release bottle that can be used anywhere, mid-day or even mid-flight.

The vegan formula uses enzymes to battle odor-causing bacteria and leaves behind an herbal scent with notes of sage, geranium, sandalwood, and lemon myrtle.

Many reviewers say they can apply this once per day and get by. Others like how it leaves skin soft and free of dirt.

“Some people say the product didn’t last as long as they wanted. Others didn’t care for the scent.”

Best charcoal natural deodorant

Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant, Charcoal and Magnesium

• Price: $
• Pros: large size, widely available
• Cons: baking soda may cause irritation, charcoal may stain clothing
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 3.25 oz.
• Key ingredients: arrowroot powder, baking soda, coconut oil

“When it comes to absorbing sweat, the team at Schmidt’s use arrow root powder and baking soda. The formula has coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamins to keep the skin soft.”

When you switch from aluminum to natural, there is a period ofdetachment. If you want to speed up the process, activated charcoal can help. This allows your pits to get back to sweating.

The charcoal makes the deodorant gray. People complain about irritation from the baking soda.

Best alcohol-free natural deodorant

Malin+Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant

• Price: $$$
• Pros: free of alcohol and baking soda
• Cons: essential oils may cause irritation
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2.6 oz.
• Key ingredients: cornstarch, saccharomyces ferment, bergamot

This small tube is easy to maneuver around your pits, so you can cover only the surface you need. Eucalyptus and citronellyl help eliminate odors and provide a fresh fragrance.

“Alcohol is a common ingredient in natural and conventional deodorants, but it can cause irritation in some people, and it can dry out the skin. This one is alcohol-free and is a good choice for natural anti-perspirant. It doesn’t contain baking soda.”

“Reviewers love how the product doesn’t cause problems like stains or skin problems. Some people don’t get the kind of longevity that the manufacturers claim is achieved with this product. Others think the scent is strong.”

Best natural deodorant for sensitive skin

Magsol Magnesium Deodorant

• Price: $$
• Pros: long-lasting bottle, simple ingredients, gender-neutral
• Cons: some users experienced irritation
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 3.2 oz.
• Key ingredients: magnesium oxide, beeswax, almond oil

With just four ingredients — sweet almond oil, beeswax, magnesium oxide, and essential oils — this formula is ideal for those with sensitive pits. The active ingredient, food-grade magnesium, works to reduce moisture buildup and effectively stop stink.

“Reviewers say the scent lasts all day and keeps their attention on the outside. Some people didn’t find the product suitable for their skin type. Everyone has a different level of reactivity so performing a patch test is always the safest bet.”

“Reviewers say the bottle lasts less than 2 to 3 months, which is in line with the manufacturers’ claims.”

Best natural deodorant cream

Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream

• Price: $
• Pros: contains activated charcoal to draw out toxins
• Cons: not vegan, messy application
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2.4 oz.
• Key ingredients: arrowroot powder, magnesium hydroxide, coconut oil

This deodorant comes in cream form — you scoop it out with your fingers and apply it to your pits by hand. It might go without saying, but this technique can take some getting used to. For a less messy application, Little Seed Farm sells a bamboo applicator.

It may work well on sensitive skin. It goes on smoothly and is easy to melt into skin. You can buy it in several different scents.

Reviewers like how you only need a small amount. It will not transfer onto your clothes and will last for months.

Best natural deodorant gel

Nécessaire THE DEODORANT GEL – With 5% AHA

• Price: $$
• Pros: goes on clear, dries quickly
• Cons: small size
• Synthetic fragrance-free: yes
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 1.7 oz.
• Key ingredients: AHAs, witch hazel, niacinamide

“There are many different ways to use a deodorant. Stick deodorants can leave your body moist, but this gel one doesn’t. It glides on clear, so it doesn’t leave a white stain on your clothes or your body parts.”

“The AHA blend helps balance the pH level and prevents odor. If you have dark spots or razor bumps on your body, it’s a great option to use the gentle exfoliation.”

“Reviewers praise the roller and how it glides across the skin. Many people say they don’t notice a difference in smell, but some reviewers say it’s because of the effectiveness of the product.”

Best plant-based natural deodorant

Kopari Natural Aluminum-Free Coconut Deodorant

• Price: $
• Pros: vegan-friendly, no baking soda
• Cons: contains fragrance
• Synthetic fragrance-free: no
• Paraben-free: yes
• Cruelty-free: yes
• Size: 2 oz.
• Key ingredients: coconut oil, coconut water, activated charcoal

It is difficult to find vegan and plant-based options for conventional deodorants that are tested on animals. Plants are the power of this natural coconut-based deodorant.

Coconut oil, which contains fatty acids that have antibacterial properties, helps fight odor-causing bacteria. So does another key ingredient, activated charcoal. Others, like coconut water and sage oil, hydrate and moisturize your skin. The sage extract may also have a deodorant effect, according to 2013 research.

This plant-based deodorant is made from plants and works well on clear odors, and protects sensitive skin. It contains artificial fragrance which can cause irritation to some people. Some reviewers report irritation. Others like the smell and formula of the product.

A comparison of the best natural deodorants

How to shop for natural deodorant 

The best natural anti-perspirant is dependent on your needs. As you shop, here are some things to consider.

Ingredients

Check the ingredients list for aluminum. The active ingredient in traditional antiperspirants plugs up sweat glands. A natural deodorant is free of aluminum.

Check for other ingredients that you would like to avoid. Some people like baking soda because it absorbs odors and others because it causes irritation.

You might find essential oils too harsh on your skin if you use them as a natural deodorant.

Scent

Natural deodorants come in a variety of flavors. If you want to smell the product before buying, try to smell it in person. Some brands sell sample sizes.

Application type

Natural deodorants come in sprays, sticks, pastes, and creams. Some people prefer the messy nature of pastes and creams. It is easier to apply sprays and sticks.

Lifestyle

You might need to use natural deodorants more often than traditional ones.

“If you sweat a lot, you may want to use an oil-free deodorant. It can help to consider the product’s ability to be portable.”

How long does it take to transition to natural deodorant? 

Some people report a transition period as they transition to natural Deodorant. Some people say the transition period can last a few weeks.

If you are looking for ways to help the process along, you might find things like underarm scrubs and exfoliant masks. These products claim to soothe the skin anddetox your armpits.

Some people say that these products help keep odor at bay as they begin using natural deodorant.

There are armpit detoxes.

Frequently asked questions

Below, you can find answers to questions about natural deodorant.

Is natural deodorant as effective as regular deodorant?

“That depends on how you define effective. It can reduce odor, but it can’t stop sweat. It doesn’t contain ingredients that stop perspiration.”

Natural odors can be caused by sweat mixing withbacteria, and by using deodorizing ingredients, you can reduce and eliminate them. Natural and regular deodorants have ingredients that absorb the sweat for more comfort.

“Some people find this combination of ingredients effective for reducing the amount of BO, while others don’t. It may take some trial and error before you find a product that works for you.”

What’s the most gentle natural deodorant?

“Natural products, including deodorants, are often described as being gentle. Since this term isn’t regulated, it doesn’t have a standard definition.”

Baking soda, alcohol, and essential oils are some of the ingredients in natural deodorants. Many people can tolerate these ingredients, but not everyone. The most gentle natural deodorant may be one that has no ingredients and is free of potential irritants.

What’s the best natural deodorant for men?

The qualities that make a deodorant ideal for men are the same qualities that make a deodorant ideal for anyone else.

• An appealing scent or not.
• The odor is reduced.
• There is no skin irritation.
• easy application
• There was no white stain or white residual.

People of all genders have plenty of options when it comes to choosing a natural deodorant. If you prefer to use natural products, you can find more herbal or woody fragrances from essential oils.

The bottom line

If you want to switch from conventional to natural, or if you want to try a new natural brand, you have a wide variety of products to choose from.

You may find that applying a natural deodorant more frequently than a conventional one is necessary, but your skin may still appreciate it.

Jessica Migala is a freelance writer specializing in health, nutrition, and fitness content. She lives in Chicago with her husband, two young sons, and rescue pup. Find her on LinkedIn or on Instagram.