Some people experience excessive sweating, particularly during important meetings and social gatherings, and experience embarrassment due to strong odour. If so, there are two options: antiperspirants and deodorants. Antiperspirants contain aluminium and control sweat and associated odour. On the other hand, natural deodorants are derived from natural ingredients and provide adequate protection against odour only.

Aluminium is a controversial ingredient, and healthcare professionals debate its inclusion. Although research has debunked various negative stories about using aluminium in skincare products, it does clog the skin pores, causing overheating in some people.

Amidst the increasing concern about using synthetic products in personal care products, the focus on natural alternatives is increasing and has led to the development of many natural deodorants. To know more about the body odours and deodorants, click here.

How do natural deodorants work?

Natural deodorants increase skin acidity and suppress the growth of odour-producing bacteria. They contain ingredients that are friendly to humans and the planet. Some antibacterial components like tea tree oil and baking powder are adequate odour-reducing agents. Natural deodorants don't contain phthalates, parabens, or alcohol linked to skin dryness, ingrown hairs, or irritation.

How did we select the products? 

We asked 250 testers to test various natural deodorants and report the results. Each tester needs to use a product for 15 days and check how well it combats the odour. The best 25 products were forwarded to the Welzo Health professionals, who finally selected the best 7 for the customers based on compatibility with different skin types, effectiveness, safety and environmental considerations.

Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick (Unscented)

Price: £5.99 (at Welzo)

Form: Balm

Packing size: 40g

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: Yes

Vegetarian ingredients: Yes

Cruelty-free: Yes

Why do we choose it?: This award-winning mineral salt-based natural deodorant is an excellent choice for those who abhor Aluminium chlorohydrate and always want freshness. It creates a thin, invisible film on the skin surface that works as an effective barrier against odour-producing germs. Its non-staining, fragrance-free and non-sticky formula makes it fit for everyone, even those with sensitive skin. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the five-star review of 128 satisfied customers.

Wild Fresh Refillable Natural Deodorant

Product specifications

Price: £12.99 (at Boots)

Form: Balm

Packing size: 40g

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: No

Vegetarian ingredients: Yes

Cruelty-free: Yes

Why do we choose it?: Wild Fresh Natural Deodorant comes in simple, reusable packaging, and plastic-free refillables are available in different scents. Welzo Professionals highly praise the refillable design and superb packing as being environment-friendly and easy to use while on the go. The users appreciate its creamy and easy-to-use consistency, although some report that it piles up around the rims of the packing and under the arms. The testers found that its efficacy persists even during strenuous games like tennis. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the 4.6/ 5 rating by thousands of satisfied customers.

Necessaire Gel Deodorant

Price: £18 (at Sephora)

Form: Roll-on

Packing size: 50ml

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: No

Vegetarian ingredients: Yes

Cruelty-free: Yes

Why do we choose it?: A fragranced deodorant is not what everyone desires, but it is sometimes the only option after a gym session, particularly when no time is available for the shower. The testers highly appreciate the eucalyptus scent of Necessaire Gel Deodorant. The roll-on formulation ensures easy application on the skin, and niacinamide in the formula leaves underarms smoother and softer after use. As an additional bonus, the clear consistency of the gel ensures no stains on the black sports. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the excellent reviews by hundreds of satisfied customers.

Mitchum Women Natural Power Vegan Deodorant

Price: 5£ (at Amazon UK)

Form: Balm

Packing size: 40g

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: No

Vegetarian ingredients: No

Cruelty-free: No

Why do we choose it?: It is a reliable product at an affordable price for someone looking for strong protection from odour during and after a workout session. Although it is the first natural deodorant of Mitchum, our testers found it highly effective. It dries very quickly without leaving any marks on the clothing. Some testers reported that its effects last throughout the day until evening without regular re-application. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the excellent reviews by hundreds of satisfied customers.

Drunk Elephant Sweet Pitti™ Deodorant Cream

Price: £18 (at Sephora)

Form: Balm

Packing size: 60ml

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: No

Vegetarian ingredients: Yes

Cruelty-free: Yes

Why do we choose it?: Its quick-absorbing formula, ease of application, and lack of skin irritation are enough to balance its relatively high price. It is an excellent choice, particularly for someone who is in a rush to start the workout. Our testers reported that it doesn’t cause any skin irritation, the effects last throughout the day, and despite having sound deodorising effects, it doesn’t leave any marks on the skin. It has a sweet fragrance, which some users don’t like. Additionally, some users report that its square shape makes it relatively tricky to use. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the excellent reviews by hundreds of satisfied customers.

AKT Deodorant Balm

Price: £21 (at Amazon)

Form: Balm

Packing size: 50ml

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: No

Vegetarian ingredients: Yes

Cruelty-free: Yes

Why do we choose it?: The AKT understands that underarms are not the only places that become sweaty and has formulated a product that applies equally effectively to all body parts, including the chest and feet. The users appreciated the fresh eucalyptus and mint scents that lasted longer than many competitors. Its unique packing in metallic tubes needs to be squeezed like toothpaste, and a metallic key allows the users to roll the tube to push the last part of the product more easily.

Some users reported that the tube becomes hard and challenging to use when cold. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the excellent reviews by thousands of satisfied customers.

Now Solutions Nature's Deodorant Stick

Price: £10.20 (at Welzo)

Form: Stick

Packing size: 99g

Sensitive skin: Yes

Fragrance-free: Yes

Vegetarian ingredients: Yes

Cruelty-free: Yes

Why do we choose it?: It offers excellent and long-lasting protection from noxious body odours and is equally suitable for all body parts. It contains 100% natural and pure mineral salts and is free from dangerous forms of aluminium, preservatives, alcohol, oils and harsh chemicals. The availability of large packing and safe and natural formula makes it a must-have for anyone looking for an alternative to traditional deodorants. The resounding popularity of this product is evident in the excellent reviews by 85 satisfied customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best natural deodorant? 

The testers reported many products as 'the best', but this is subjective and depends on personal factors. The most liked products are Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick, Wild Fresh Refillable Natural Deodorant and Mitchum Women Natural Power Vegan Deodorant. 

Do natural deodorants work? 

Yes, they are effective. While the natural deodorants do reduce the smell of odour, they do not reduce the sweat production by the sweat glands. 

How to prepare a deodorant at home? 

Deodorants contain simple and readily available ingredients. To make natural deodorant, mix arrowroot and baking soda, add coconut oil and mix well; add essential oils (optional) and place the mixture in a jar. The deodorant is ready. To use it, warm a small amount by rubbing it between the hands.

Do Dermatologists recommend natural deodorants? 

Natural deodorants have less risk of allergic reactions, and their use is recommended over chemical-based deodorants. The dermatologists like Dr. Jeannette Graf, M.D. have suggested using natural deodorants to combat contact dermatitis and irritation.

Is lemon a good deodorant? 

Yes, lemon is effective in reducing the odour in the armpits. However, commercial deodorants and antiperspirants are more effective at the job as they contain more ingredients.

Is shaving armpits useful to reduce smell? 

Yes, shaving armpits is effective. The hair in the armpits traps moisture that harbours the bacteria that produce a foul smell. Shaving reduces this activity. 

How can one kill the odour-producing bacteria in underarms? 

There are many easy ones; however, apple cider vinegar is effective and safe. Spraying a diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar and water on the underarms is very effective.

Bottom-line

Natural deodorants, e.g., Wild Fresh Refillable Natural Deodorant and Mitchum Women Natural Power Vegan Deodorant, don’t contain alcohol, parabens and aluminium and offer safer alternatives to the traditional antiperspirants. The safety, however, comes at the cost of efficacy, and some users often find them ineffective. A good practice is to use these products in combination with natural ways to reduce sweat.

Several sweating relief products are available at Welzo. Click here to view and order the products of your choice.