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Written By Stacey L. Nash
Updated Mar 12, 2022 12:02 PM
Thanks to science, we’re more aware of the dangers of putting metals, chemicals, and even natural but harmful substances in or on our bodies. Part of our growing breadth of knowledge includes the fact that the body absorbs substances rubbed into the skin. There’s an ongoing concern (though no direct evidence) that the aluminum used in most antiperspirants could contribute to aluminum buildup in the body, which can have dangerous side effects.Aluminum-free deodorants are one way to cut down on exposure to potentially harmful substances. These deodorants manage body odor with gentle, natural, and/or organic ingredients.Here’s a guide to the best aluminum free deodorantsto suit your preferences.
- Best aluminum free deodorant for men: Native Deodorant
- Best aluminum free deodorant for women: Toms’ of Maine Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
- Best aluminum free deodorant for sensitive skin:
- Best all-natural deodorant: Schmidt’s Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
- Best budget: Humble All-Natural Deodorant
Are antiperspirant deodorants bad for your health?
The best aluminum free deodorants effectively control odors. However, it’s important to remember that there’s a difference between antiperspirants and deodorants, though people often use the terms interchangeably. The reason antiperspirants are made with aluminum is because that it blocks sweat glands from producing sweat. Deodorants, meanwhile, reduce odor and don’t generally contain aluminum unless they’re an antiperspirant deodorant.
The second thing to consider is how aluminum works when it is present in an antiperspirant. The aluminum salt in antiperspirants melts into the pores, clogging them to reduce overall perspiration. Scientists know that substances can enter the body through the skin, a process called transdermal absorption. And high aluminum levels have been linked to memory issues, cancer, dementia, and renal failure.
However, the aluminum in cosmetic products and antiperspirant deodorants has not been linked to high aluminum levels. As recently as 2021, a study found that breastfeeding mothers did not have higher aluminum levels in their breast milk, for example. Scientists haven’t conclusively determined that aluminum in antiperspirant contributes to aluminum buildup in the human body, nor have they definitely found that it does not. We just don’t know.
That being said, sometimes it’s better to be cautious. If you’re limiting the number of potentially harmful substances you put on or in your body, aluminum free deodorant will do just that.
Best aluminum-free deodorant for women and men
Aluminum free deodorants don’t typically have different formulas for men and women, though some are marketed to a specific gender. Instead, it’s about finding a formula that works for you and comes with a smell that you like. Thankfully, these products come in a wide array of scents like tea tree, lavender, rose, mint, and sage. Many formulas contain essential oils that don’t add artificial ingredients to the list.
Many aluminum free deodorants are free of other potentially questionable substances, such as paraben and phthalates. Like aluminum, there’s no conclusive evidence that parabens and phthalates are harmful in the doses used in cosmetics. The FDA has determined that both types of chemicals are safe for regular use. However, cosmetic doses are closely monitored and regularly tested to make sure growing levels in the daily products we use don’t pose a problem.
Best aluminum-free deodorant for men: Native Deodorant
Native
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Native Deodorant leaves out aluminum and a lot more, like parabens and animal testing. The list of ingredients also includes nourishment for the skin in the form of coconut oil and shea butter. This formula comes in several scents, including lavender rose, coconut vanilla, cucumber mint, and unscented.
Do you get stains on your clothing from deodorant?
Deodorants are notorious for leaving white marks on the inside of your clothes and sometimes the outside of your clothes. Then there are the lovely yellow stains we all love. The good news if you’re jumping on the aluminum-free train is that aluminum reacts with perspiration and is the source of many of the yellow stains. That means aluminum-free products are less likely to stain your clothes.
Whites stains are another matter and usually stem from odor-reducing ingredients. An aluminum free deodorant might prove helpful here because it’s more likely to have natural ingredients, which are typically easier to wash out of your clothes.
Best aluminum-free deodorant for women: Toms’ of Maine Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
Tom’s of Maine
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Toms’ of Maine Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant has a fairly short ingredient list. However, the list of ingredients it doesn’t have includes aluminum, silicone, microbeads, mineral oil, parabens, and many other substances that you may be trying to eliminate from your life. It also skips artificial colors, fragrances, and preservatives but still puts a stop to odor.
Do you have sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin easily reacts to chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. A reaction may cause itching, redness, or an unsightly rash. For example, a rash down the back of your arm or in the armpit is a pretty good indication that your skin is reacting to your deodorant. And perspiration can further irritate the skin.
Aluminum free deodorants come in formulas made especially for the most sensitive skin. They are already free of aluminum, but these formulas are often free of other common irritants, such as dyes and artificial fragrances. Instead, they feature natural options or a reduced number of ingredients to keep things simple.
Best aluminum-free deodorant for sensitive skin:
Each & Every
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Each & Every Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Sensitive Skin Is formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle on skin. They list the scientific name for their ingredients next to the common name, so you know what you’re using. The list includes everything from common favorites like coconut oil and dead sea salt to earth wax and fermented castor oil. This particular company is also gentle on the planet with plant-based packaging and recyclable materials.
Is activated charcoal an effective alternative to aluminum?
The lists on the back of some antiperspirant deodorants can sound like a foreign language. A formula composed of natural ingredients skips chemicals and uses familiar ingredients. Keep in mind that natural ingredients may include naturally-derived ingredients too. That doesn’t mean these ingredients are harmful. It means they’ve gone through some processing before getting added to the deodorant. In many cases, they’re easier on your body (and clothes) than the synthetic substitute used in regular deodorants.
Best all-natural deodorant: Schmidt’s Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant
Schmidt’s
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Schmidt’s Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant is formulated with an ingredient that’s showing up in many cosmetic and personal hygiene products—charcoal. Scientific evidence lags behind many of the claims around activated charcoal, but charcoal can neutralize odors. This formula contains a blend of charcoal and magnesium to keep odor under control. It’s natural enough that it’s received the EcoCert Certification, a European organization that certifies organic products.
How expensive is the best aluminum free deodorant?
Many of the ingredients we use in everyday products are there because they’re effective and inexpensive to produce. Aluminum substitutes cost more. These deodorants can run up to $3 or more per ounce. However, less expensive options are out there. They typically have common, easily accessible ingredients, though the list of ingredients may be small. Some may have a few essential oils to add fragrance.
Best budget: Humble All-Natural Deodorant
HUMBLE
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Humble All-Natural Deodorant features four fairly common ingredients—fractionated coconut oil, corn starch, baking soda, and beeswax. That’s it. It’s not fancy. However, for many people, it’s effective. Humble comes in a few different scents, with the scented varieties having essential oils for added fragrance.
FAQs
Q: Why should you use aluminum free deodorant?
If you’re concerned about aluminum buildup in your body, switch to aluminum-free deodorant. There’s no conclusive evidence that the aluminum salts in antiperspirant buildup to levels that are harmful to the human body. But if you’re being cautious, skip aluminum altogether.
Q: Is it worth switching to a natural deodorant?
It’s worth switching to a natural deodorant if you want to reduce your exposure to artificial/synthetic substances. Many people are looking for ways to reduce the number of chemicals and potentially harmful substances in their homes and on their bodies. Natural deodorants stick to simple ingredients and those derived from natural materials.
Q: What is the most effective deodorant?
The most effective aluminum-free deodorants are the ones on our list. Native Deodorant and Toms’ of Maine Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant do particularly well. They’re also both highly trusted brands.
Final thoughts on shopping for the best aluminum free deodorant
Applying antiperspirant or deodorant is likely a daily practice. It’s important to balance personal hygiene with safety. The best aluminum-free deodorants reduce exposure to chemicals and potentially harmful substances while managing odors. Reduce exposure, simplify your life, and get a deodorant that leaves you smelling fresh and clean.
FAQs
Why do I still smell after using aluminum-free deodorant? ›
"When switching from an antiperspirant to a deodorant, you are removing the aluminum and releasing waste which has been blocked. This is a natural process as part of our body's built-in mechanisms, but it may contribute to releasing some slightly unusual body odor in comparison to what you are used to.
Is 0% aluminum deodorant good for you? ›Some benefits of using an aluminum-free deodorant may include: Allowing your body to sweat freely using its natural process. Avoiding aluminum in your beauty products. Unclogged armpit pores.
Do dermatologists recommend natural deodorant? ›The dermatologists we consulted recommend considering the following factors when shopping for a natural, aluminum-free deodorant: Ingredients: Look for deodorants with mostly natural ingredients, including essential oils for fragrance and natural moisture absorbers like baking soda, arrowroot and cornstarch.
Which is safest antiperspirant or deodorant? ›Important: Both antiperspirants and deodorants are considered safe products — though antiperspirants may have health risks for people with advanced kidney disease. People with kidney function of less than 30% may not be able to clear the aluminum in antiperspirants out of their system efficiently.
Should I switch to aluminum-free deodorant? ›A recent study showed that antiperspirants—but not deodorants—have a clear negative effect on the human microbiome, the naturally occurring microbes that keep our skin healthy. Switching to an aluminum-free deodorant can certainly be a good first step to prevent irritation.
How long does it take for your body to get used to no aluminum deodorant? ›For most people who report experiencing an adjustment period, it can be anywhere from 2-4 weeks. And then there are some lucky folks that adjust right away! The moral of the story is to stick it out, at least for one month to see if it will work for you.
Can you just switch to aluminum-free deodorant? ›Yes, it's true: In order to successfully become a natural deodorant user, you might have to go through an adjustment period where your body gets used to being off of aluminum. Read on to find out how going through a "deodorant detox" is just what you need to make the natural stuff work for you.
What does aluminum do to your body? ›Exposure to aluminum is usually not harmful, but exposure to high levels can affect your health. Workers who breathe large amounts of aluminum dusts can have lung problems, such as coughing or abnormal chest X-rays.
Why is aluminum free deodorant more expensive? ›Small businesses making organic deodorants run production in the thousands. And add to that the quality ingredients being used, often food quality, and that's where the price difference it.
What happens to your body when you start using natural deodorant? ›During the first week or so, your sweat glands will begin to unclog, and around the second week, they'll start oozing out built-up bacteria and toxins. These do not smell pleasant, and you may be super-extra-ripe for a week or so.
Do armpits adjust to natural deodorant? ›
It can take a few weeks for your armpits to detox all the toxins from conventional deodorant. After you've gone through the detox period, the natural deodorant will begin to work and you will never look back! If you're finding that your pits still get irritated, try to avoid applying deodorant right after shaving.
What happens to your body when you use natural deodorant? ›Things usually begin to seem better with fewer stinky bacteria leading to less body odor. You will still be sweating, but it may be less noticeable and could even actually be less since your body is used to not having an antiperspirant anymore.
How do you get rid of armpit odor without deodorant permanently? ›- Apply Witch Hazel to Your Armpits with a Cotton Ball after Showering. ...
- Dab Apple Cider Vinegar on Your Underarms Twice a Day. ...
- Rub a Mixture of Lemon Juice and Water on Your Pits Once a Day. ...
- Wear Homemade or Natural Deodorant. ...
- Cruciferous Vegetables. ...
- Red Meat. ...
- Fish.
The benefits of wearing deodorant to bed
It gives the product more time to sink into your skin. Sweat glands are less active at night, so the product absorbs faster. Deodorant works better on dry skin (as opposed to damp skin after a shower in the morning).
UPC | Description |
---|---|
037000711087 | Secret Aerosol Powder Fresh 12/6oz |
037000711094 | Secret Aerosol Powder Fresh 12/4oz |
037000723721 | Secret Fresh Collection Inv Spray Waterlily 3.8oz |
037000729860 | Secret Fresh Collection Inv Spray Lavender 12/3.8oz |
The major difference between deodorant without aluminum and deodorant with aluminum is that the former blocks odor whereas the latter blocks sweat. Sweat is our healthy way of cooling down the body, and sweat from our underarms is activated by the nervous system through the apocrine glands.
What is the disadvantage of Aluminium in deodorant? ›The most common concern about aluminum in antiperspirants and other topical products is that it's linked to breast cancers. There's little evidence that typical exposure to aluminum causes cancer or any other health condition, though.
How do you detox your armpits with aluminum-free deodorant? ›- Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps your body remove everyday toxins in an efficient, natural way. ...
- Mind What You Eat: Believe it or not, certain foods can change the way that your body odor smells. ...
- Dry Off Carefully After a Shower: Think back to high school science.
Baking soda is often added to natural deodorants as a means of absorbing and neutralizing body odor. As previously mentioned, baking soda's high pH level can sometimes irritate the skin, especially the delicate skin in your underarms.
Why do my armpits itch after using aluminum free deodorant? ›What is the cause of armpit itching when using deodorant? Certain chemicals in topical products can contribute to underarm itching when using deodorant, the most common manifestation of contact dermatitis, of which perfume is the most common. Fragrance allergies are very common, affecting 4% of all people.
What happens to your armpits when you stop using deodorant? ›
“If you stop wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, you can develop a stronger odor over time,” Doyle said. “When you stop using (such products) and sweat more, this creates a breeding ground for bacterial and fungal overgrowth, which can cause odor to become stronger.”
How do I stop sweating without aluminum? ›- Native Deodorant.
- Aesop Roll-on Deodorant.
- Bravo Sierra Deodorant.
- Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick.
- Baxter of California Deodorant.
- Ursa Major Hoppin' Fresh Deodorant.
- Each & Every All Natural Aluminum Free Deodorant.
- Malin + Goetz Deodorant.
In the years since, we've heard about more natural deodorants that folks say also minimize sweat, leading us to wonder if the science has changed. The short answer? It has not, as aluminum remains the only FDA-approved antiperspirant.
Is switching to natural deodorant worth it? ›According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, conventional antiperspirant deodorants are safe — so there's no need to worry or switch to a natural deodorant on account of your overall health. However, personal preference or ingredient sensitivity may lead you to consider switching to a natural deodorant.
What are the symptoms of too much aluminum? ›History. The signs and symptoms of aluminum toxicity are usually nonspecific. Typical presentations in chronic toxicity may include proximal muscle weakness, bone pain, multiple nonhealing fractures, acute or subacute alteration in mental status, and premature osteoporosis.
What organs are affected by aluminum? ›Aluminum poisoning can affect blood content, musculoskeletal system, kidney, liver, and respiratory and nervous system, and the extent of poisoning can be diagnosed by assaying aluminum compounds in blood, urine, hair, nails, and sweat.
Does aluminum build up in the brain? ›The body is able to tolerate these metals in small amounts by clearing through the kidneys. These include aluminium and lead, for example it has been shown that if they are not taken out by the kidneys through organ failure or by exposure to extremely high doses these metals are able to deposit in the brain.
What is the best deodorant and antiperspirant for menopause? ›- Salt Of The Earth Natural Deodorant Stick. ...
- Dove Advanced Care Calming Blossom Deodorant. ...
- VICHY 72-Hour Stress Resist Anti-Perspirant Deodorant. ...
- Triple Dry Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Spray Fresh Fragrance. ...
- Perspirex Original Antiperspirant Roll On. ...
- Certain Dri Prescription Strength Clinical Antiperspirant Roll On.
Uriage Clinical Strength Deodorant
Our best overall choice from Uriage is a roll-on deodorant and antiperspirant that kept our armpits smelling and feeling fresh for a full 24 hours, even after a sweaty workout. We like that it's formulated to be strong enough to tackle hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
- Schmidt's Natural Deodorant Stick. ...
- Soapwalla Original Deodorant Cream. ...
- Meow Meow Tweet Deodorant Cream. ...
- Follain Charcoal Deodorant. ...
- From Molly With Love Probiotic Deodorant. ...
- Ursa Major No B.S. ...
- Lovefresh Super Strength Deodorant. ...
- Type: A The Minimalist Deodorant.
Is aluminum in deodorant banned in Europe? ›
Under European law, aluminium can be used in antiperspirants at a concentration of 6.25% and 10.6% in spray and non-spray products.
Why is deodorant so expensive 2023? ›According to consumer website Finer Home Living the `main reason why deodorant is so expensive is due to inflation which is pushing up the cost that it takes to manufacture, package, market, and distribute' it.
Which is better aluminum or aluminum free deodorant? ›The major difference between deodorant without aluminum and deodorant with aluminum is that the former blocks odor whereas the latter blocks sweat. Sweat is our healthy way of cooling down the body, and sweat from our underarms is activated by the nervous system through the apocrine glands.
Why is natural deodorant better for you? ›One of the benefits of natural deodorant is that it may even help your health. The natural ingredients make it less likely that you'll have skin issues, but the lack of pore-blocking ingredients mean good bacteria works better and may prevent odor even when you have no deodorant on at all.
Which deodorants do not contain benzene? ›- Axe - Dry Spray, Non-Stop Hustle, Don't Sweat It - Smell Fresh, 48 H Dry.
- Axe - Phoenix, Body Spray.
- Axe - Apollo.
- Axe - Signature, Night, 48 Anti Marks Protection.
- Axe - Dry Spray, On Your Grind, Don't Sweat It - Smell Fresh, 48 H Dry.
As your body continues to become accustomed to living without aluminum, its sweat and odor levels will self-regulate and begin to function normally. That means you'll sweat slightly more than when you used antiperspirant, but considerably less than if you were to use nothing at all.
Can you just switch to aluminum free deodorant? ›Yes, it's true: In order to successfully become a natural deodorant user, you might have to go through an adjustment period where your body gets used to being off of aluminum. Read on to find out how going through a "deodorant detox" is just what you need to make the natural stuff work for you.
Which brand deodorant is best? ›S No. | Product Name | Price |
---|---|---|
1 | Nivea Fresh Active Original Deo | Rs. 160 |
2 | Yardley London Gentleman Classic Deodorant Body Spray For Men, 150ml | Rs. 167 |
3 | Nike Up Or Down Silver Deodorant for Men | Rs. 368 |
4 | Nivea Deep Impact Freshness, Deodorant Roll-on for Men | Rs. 145 |
Deodorant and antiperspirant work best when applied to dry skin before you start sweating. If you forget to put on deodorant and only notice once you're actively sweating and creating odor, it won't do as much good to apply more at that point, but the fragrances can help mask odor.
What happens to your body when you switch to natural deodorant? ›The detoxification process takes time, and your natural microbiome of the skin needs time to adjust. In this time, you will also begin to sweat from your armpits, something that you may not be used to if you have always used an antiperspirant. Sweating is natural and helps to decrease the toxins in the body.
What two deodorants are recalled? ›
- Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Antiperspirant Powder -- 4-ounce cans with UPC 079400751508.
- Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Antiperspirant Powder -- 6-ounce cans with UPC 079400784902.
- Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Antiperspirant Fresh -- 6-ounce cans with UPC 079400785503.
- Aluminum compounds and salt. Aluminum compounds are commonly found in pharmaceutical and beauty products. ...
- Talc. This common ingredient found in baby powder is known for its ability to resist moisture and absorb oils. ...
- Parabens. ...
- Propylene Glycol. ...
- Triclosan. ...
- Phthalates.
Company Announcement. March 30, 2022 - Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey– Unilever United States is voluntarily recalling two Suave 24-Hour Protection Aerosol Antiperspirants to the consumer level. An internal review showed slightly elevated levels of benzene in some product samples.