Best Non Toxic Deodorants That Work!

Non toxic deodorant is a must if you are removing toxic chemicals from your personal care products. And when natural deodorants can work just as well as conventional deodorants, why wouldn't you make the swap?!

Non toxic deodorant is a non negotiable in my opinion. This is one area of going green that I want to shout from the rooftops!  Why?  Because everyday people use deodorant, or at least most of us should.  Maybe you can get away with every other day, but you get my point.  Multiply that by 365 days and you’re rubbing toxins on yourself daily!

*Affiliate Disclosure: I do have affiliate links in this blog post. If you purchase something from my link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.  This comes at no cost to you, but is paid by the company.  I do not take becoming an affiliate with any company lightly.  If I am, it’s because I believe in the company and their product. 

Suzi(Gurl Gone Green) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Pretty Frank Deodorant

Best Non Toxic Deodorant

If I had to pick one deodorant as the best, I would choose Pretty Frank. It hits ALL the marks for what I am looking for in a deodorant. First, it glides on so easily. Next, it works! I don’t have to worry about feeling stinky even during my workouts. Last, it’s budget friendly- making it even better!

Why Is Natural And Non Toxic Deodorant Necessary?

There are multiple reasons it is necessary to swap out your deodorant for a cleaner and better option.

First, if you check the ingredient label of your current conventional deodorant you probably won’t be thrilled to see what’s lurking in it. See below for specific ingredients that you might find, but as always the toxic options are many.

Secondly, you are probably using deodorant daily, maybe even multiple times per day! That is a big addition to your toxic load.

Third, the location of the application is unique for deodorant. Obviously the skin absorbs at least some of what we apply on it. Whether it be our skincare, sunscreen, makeup and in this instance deodorant. 

Per this study, the underarm area tends to have a higher absorption rate than the skin on other areas of the body. While the study I am referring to didn’t test deodorants specifically, I still think it is important to note that other toxins have been shown to be absorbed at a greater rate in the underarm area versus the skin on other parts of the body. Making clean deodorant a priority for me!

Natural Deodorants
You may be surprised at what is lurking in your deodorant’s ingredient list!

Non Toxic Deodorant Ingredients

What To Avoid

  • Aluminum
  • Parabens
  • Pthalates
  • PEG’s
  • Fragrance
  • Talc
  • BHT
  • Butane
  • Triclosan

Ingredients You Want

  • Baking Soda (although can be irritating for some)
  • Arrowroot
  • Shea Butter
  • Coconut Oil
  • Essential Oils
Natural Deodorant Brands
While there are many great natural deodorant brands, there aren’t any true anti-perspirants that I would recommend.

Are There Any Non Toxic Anti-Perspirants?

The reality is that a deodorant and antiperspirant are very different. A deodorant will still allow you to sweat – which is necessary for the health of your body and to allow you to cool off! In fact it is a great thing to break a sweat. However, it will help to eliminate the odor that can come along with sweating.

On the other hand an anti-perspirant will actually prevent you from sweating. This is done by blocking your sweat glands. This is a problem for a couple reasons. 

First, if you aren’t sweating, then you aren’t detoxing. Secondly, the active ingredient used to block the sweat glands is aluminum salts.

This toxic ingredient is put in deodorant for the sole purpose of blocking your pores from sweating.  In essence so you don’t get wet.  There’s a problem though, we were made to sweat, and our body uses sweat as a way to rid ourselves of toxins.

So where does the aluminum go?  Into our blood stream, fatty tissue, and can settle into breast tissueUnlike toxic food that can be broken down once digested, chemicals we put on our body cannot.  Instead they find a home in our fat and can wreak havoc.  Specifically in breast tissue.  

A quote from the Journal of Inorganic Bio-chemistry states, “Over 50% of breast cancers start in the upper outer quadrant of the breast local to the underarm region.”  Although, that doesn’t equate to aluminum causing breast cancer, it certainly lays a case for it.  Plus, it’s not just the application of the antiperspirant but the application onto underarms that have just been shaven.  The broken skin makes it even more permeable for the aluminum to get into the body.  Why take the risk if you don’t have too?!

So, no, there is no truly non toxic anti-perspirant. Because, in my opinion, everyone needs to sweat! 

Related Content: An Honest Lume Deodorant Review

non toxic deodorant brands
While non toxic deodorant can definitely be effective, there still may be a transition period while you get used to it.

Tips For Transitioning To A Non Toxic Deodorant

  • DRINK WATER– Sounds like a no-brainer but not drinking enough water can leave your body stagnant-nothings moving and that’s not good.  Make sure you’re drinking enough water for your body weight and having consistent bowel movements.

 Related Content: Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher Review

  • CONSIDER YOUR FOOD- Oftentimes what we eat has a direct effect on our smell.  If you’re putting junk into your body, i.e. refined sugar, white flour, processed foods etc. then chances are you’re going to smell it too.  Eating more leafy greens and fruits causes your body to have a sweeter smell.  Also, some foods even if they are healthy can cause you to smell just because of their makeup. Be mindful of when you eat odor causing foods that may take your stench to a whole new level. Avoid these foods for a bit to see if your odor improves.  
  • EXFOLIATE UNDERARMS- It’s time to slough off all that bacteria and make sure your underarms are clean.  Getting rid of the bacteria and creating a clean canvas will help ensure you’re not creating further stench.
  • SWEAT- Many people don’t like to hear it but sweating is actually one of the best ways to detox naturally.  It pushes the toxins out of your body.  I’ve noticed I always smell better when I’m consistently getting a good sweat through some form of exercise.  Also, epsom salt baths are great for helping to sweat, as well as saunas.  If your glands have been blocked for so many years chances are they have some mucus and bacteria buildup.  Remember sweating is a good thing!  Your body may even go through a period where you sweat a little more during the transition-totally normal.  Your body will adjust.
  •  CLOTHING- For the first several weeks consider the clothes you wear.  Opt for material such as merino wool, bamboo, hemp and cotton-all natural fibers.  Avoid synthetic fibers which can trap sweat and help breed bacteria.  Choose loose fitting, breathable clothing.

 Related Content: MATE the Label Review

  • SWITCH PRODUCTS UP- Change your deodorant after a while.  If you notice after several months your deodorant isn’t working anymore-switch it up.  Sometimes your body can get accustomed to one and it’s good to switch it up.  I’ve had this happen to myself and others have shared the same thing with me.
  • WATCH YOUR SHAVE- To avoid irritation, don’t apply your deodorant right after you shave.  Since your pores will be open and fresh, it’s best to avoid putting the deodorant on right away.  It may cause irritation and redness.  Give it some time.  If you can, shower the night before and apply in the morning or wait an hour to apply after you shower in the morning.  An hour gives your pores a chance to close up.

 

  • DON’T GIVE UP– Just because one natural deodorant doesn’t work or you’re still feeling like you smell, don’t give up!  It takes time for your body to acclimate and this may not be a quick fix.  Ask around, be diligent about detoxing, and eventually you’ll reap the rewards.

Ok, enough of the nitty gritty.  Let’s get to my review of the deodorants.  I have some all-stars, and my hub’s favorites.  Also, something for every budget!  One thing to keep in mind is every person is so different. Deodorant is such a personal choice.  What works for one, may not work for another.  It could be body chemistry, irritation, or just scent.

FAVORITE NON TOXIC DEODORANTS

Related Content: Ursa Major Brand Review

Related Content: Primally Pure Deodorant Review

Have you guys tried any of these?  Any that you really like I didn’t mention?  I would love to hear what you’ve been using!  Leave me a comment below.

If you liked this post, check out these past posts:

Sharing my favorite nontoxic aluminum free deodorants on the blog.

Cheers, Suzi

Suzi

Suzi is a wife, and mama who is passionate about sharing her natural lifestyle with those around her. She created Gurl Gone Green to show how our everyday decisions, from what we use on our face, home and the food we eat affect us more than we know. She loves holding space where people can weed through the marketing clutter to find truth, and ultimately make the best decision for their families.

10 Comments

  1. Kimberly

    I cannot use deodorants with baking soda. Which ones do not contain baking soda?

    Reply
    • Becky Langner

      Pretty Frank is baking soda free and Suzi’s pick for best non toxic deodorant!

      Reply
    • Patricia

      I personally like Native for sensitive skin.

      Reply
      • Suzi

        Hi Patricia,

        Yes, so many people really love them!

        Reply
  2. Andi

    I love Piperwai (creamy version in a jar)—the stick version’s formula is a bit gritty. It lasts all day, and has an amazing scent that both my husband and I enjoy. I’m sensitive to baking soda, but their baking soda formula doesn’t bother me at all.

    Reply
    • Suzi

      Hi Andi,

      Yes, I have tried them years ago, but just didn’t love sticking my hand in a jar. 🙂

      Reply
  3. Boni Haynes

    Great list, but you forgot the best one! You’ve got to check out Nuud! Hands down the best I’ve ever used!

    Reply
    • Suzi

      Hi Boni,

      Thanks so much! I haven’t used them, but I’ll add them to my list. 🙂

      Reply
  4. Laura

    Little seed farm is by far my favorite!

    Reply
    • Suzi

      Hi Laura,

      Thanks! I’ll have to try it!

      Reply

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