If just the thought of swapping out your go-to antiperspirant for an all-natural version makes you perspire, take a breath. Antiperspirants, which are classified as over-the-counter drugs, inhibit a normal bodily function — in other words, the formation of sweat — using their active ingredient, aluminum salts, says David Bank, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at New York Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. On the other hand, natural deodorants are typically made without aluminum. They’re designed to keep you smelling fresh for hours with bacteria-sopping ingredients, including familiar favorites like baking soda.
So, yes, you may still sweat a bit after swiping on your favorite aluminum-free formula (because, again, deodorant doesn’t equal antiperspirant), but no, you shouldn’t smell sour after going green. To prove it, we’ve rounded up a new crop of natural deos (tested by Allure editors, of course) that are formulated to keep you smelling great and feeling even better, thanks to your newfound confidence. Below, 16 of our team’s new and longtime favorites.
Megababe Rosypits Daily Deodorant
Megababe’s Rosypits Daily Deodorant is beloved by multiple Allure editors because it’s as effective as it is adorably-packaged. Infused with ingredients like sage, green tea, and corn starch, the rose-scented deo works by preventing odor-inducing bacteria from forming on the skin. It’s also free of aluminum, alcohol, and other common irritants, so it’s safe for sensitive skin types.
Nubian Heritage African Black Soap 24-Hour Deodorant
For those with dark skin tones, finding a deodorant that doesn’t leave white streaks behind can be a struggle. Luckily, Nubian Heritage’s African Black Soap 24-Hour Deodorant doesn’t leave marks after application. Allure editorial assistant Gabriela Thorne says it’s one of her recent favorite finds, as it works immediately and requires very few touch-ups.
“This deodorant is so clean-smelling, glides onto your pits easily, and leaves you feeling fresh for most of the day,” she says.
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