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!
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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!
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
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 tissue. Unlike 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
Tips For Transitioning To A Non Toxic Deodorant
- DETOX YOUR UNDERARMS– Since you’ve spent years piling on the toxins, it’s time to remove them. These toxins and bacteria get blocked up from the aluminum in your lymph nodes and fatty tissue and they have nowhere to go. Talk about a recipe for B.O.! The Wellness Mama has a great recipe for detoxing arm pits that I’ve used and always share with others.
- 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
Schmidt’s
***Best Budget Friendly Deodorant***
Scents- They offer 17 scents, however, there are only a few scents that don’t have natural fragrance. The scents that don’t contain natural fragrance also known as synthetic fragrance are Lavender Sage and Bergamot Lime.
Longevity- The longevity of the deodorant is great. I can workout wearing it and not feel like I smell afterwards. It really holds up.
Ease of Use- It comes in stick and glides on easily.
Packaging- Comes in a stick.
Staining- I did notice some staining. My white shirts are a little tinged yellow. I find I can get it out by soaking in some Branch Basics detergent and their Oxygen Booster.
Irritation- It only irritates my skin if I put my deodorant on right after shaving, otherwise no irritation.
Pretty Frank
***Best Budget Friendly Deodorant***
Scents- They offer 6 scents and an unscented version. However the coconut lime is only offered in the spray version and not the stick. I tried the Charcoal Seaside and loved the scent! Nice and fresh. My V.A. tried out the Orange Vanilla and loved it. Very light scent that wasn’t too strong.
Longevity- The longevity of the deodorant is the best! It really holds up so well. I can apply it in the morning and not shower for 2 days and still smell fresh. It’s the only deodorant I’ve been using. Can’t recommend it enough!
Ease of Use- It comes in stick and glides on so well. It is soothing and isn’t hard to apply. Sometimes stick natural deodorants can get hard, not this one.
Packaging- Comes in a stick.
Staining- I did not have any staining.
Irritation- None, very soothing formula overall.
Agent Nateur Holi(Rose)
Scents- They offer 4 scents. They don’t list the scent directly on the deodorant stick. They have a Holi(Rose) which has rose of course in it and smells like Rose. The other one Holi for sensitive skin and it has notes of jasmine, coconut and jasmine. Their Holi Stick No.3 has lavender and eucalyptus in it. Their Unisex deodorant has vetiver and sandalwood in it. They all work differently depending on scent. I like the Holi(Rose) the best.
Longevity- This has been a fave for years. It feels like a dupe to Donna Karan’s conventional deodorant. Very luxurious and sleek design overall. It works well. I can apply in the morning and get two days wear out if it smelling good.
Ease of Use- It comes in stick and glides on easily.
Packaging- Comes in a stick.
Staining- I did not have any staining.
Irritation- None, very soothing formula overall.
Ursa Major Sublime Sage Deodorant
Scents- They offer two scents for their spray deodorant. The Sublime Sage is a combination of sage, sandalwood, myrtle and geranium and then the Hello Hinoki is a combination of jasmine, Hinoki wood, and lemon tea tree. My favorite is Sublime Sage- My hub’s fave too.
Longevity- This deodorant works so well. It really surprised me at first since it’s a spray, but both my hubs and I were impressed with the longevity of it. This is my hub’s favorite deodorant! He can’t be without it.
Ease of Use- So easy, just spray on underarms.
Packaging- Comes in a glass spray bottle.
Staining- I did not have any staining and neither did my husband. That is one of the reasons my husband loves it so much- he never gets staining.
Irritation- None, very soothing formula overall.
Related Content: Ursa Major Brand Review
Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh
Scents- Blend of rosemary, peppermint and eucalyptus. It feels very cooling on the skin. They also have one called Forest Fix that I haven’t tried that is scented with fir and sandalwood. They also have a deodorant called Base Layer that is unscented that I haven’t tried as well.
Longevity- This deodorant feels very fresh and cooling as I mentioned. I can get a good two days out of it and smell good still.
Ease of Use- Great, glides on smoothly.
Packaging- Comes in a stick form.
Staining- I did have some staining with this deodorant. I noticed some yellowing on white shirts, but nothing on dark shirts.
Irritation- I would notice a little irritation depending on how soon I shaved. The eucalyptus is strong and I think can be a little irritating when skin is freshly shaven.
Primally Pure
Scents- They have charcoal, blue tansy, lavender, geranium, tea tree vanilla + citrus, lemongrass and an unscented version. I love the blue tansy and charcoal the best.
Longevity- This deodorant has been a fave for a while. It lasts for a good two days without any stench.
Ease of Use- It does glide on smoothly, but I have noticed it can get a little hard on the top the more I’ve used it. This makes it a little harder to apply product smoothly.
Packaging- Comes in a stick form.
Staining- I do notice some staining, but only on white shirts. I can get it out with some Branch Basics concentrate and Oxygen Booster.
Irritation- None, very soothing overall.
Use code GURLGONEGREEN10 to save 10% off your order!
Related Content: Primally Pure Deodorant Review
Routine
Scents- They have 17 different scents. The only one I’ve tried is the Superstar which has activated charcoal in it, sage, cardamom, and pepper.
Longevity- This deodorant doesn’t work as long as some of the others. It’s more of a one day deodorant for me.
Ease of Use- It glides on fairly well, the only downside is the cardboard can make it a tad tricky to apply sometimes. However, I love that they’re more eco-friendly and not in plastic.
Packaging- Comes in a cardboard stick form.
Staining- I did have some staining with this deodorant. I noticed some yellowing on white shirts, but nothing on dark shirts.
Irritation- None.
Green Tidings
Scents- Comes in lavender, unscented, vetiver citrus, calendula and sage and orange vanilla. My favorites are lavender and calendula and sage. The calendula and sage is for sensitive skin.
Longevity- Works really well. It was the first natural deodorant I found 8 years ago that actually worked and kept me from smelling.
Ease of Use- It takes a couple uses to really get a good glide from the deodorant, but once it gets going it glides on well.
Packaging- Comes in a stick form.
Staining- I did have some staining with this deodorant. I noticed some yellowing on white shirts, but nothing on dark shirts.
Irritation- None.
Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant
Scents- Serene Clean and Fragrance Free. I tried Serene Clean and honestly didn’t notice any scent.
Longevity- Stays with me the whole day.
Ease of Use- The roller ball makes application so simple.
Packaging- The only deodorant I tried that had a roller ball application – just squeeze the tube if you are having difficulty getting the product out.
Staining- None- plus the serum dries quickly and clear.
Irritation- None.
All Good
Scents- There are 3 scents available and an unscented option. The 3 scents are: Rose Geranium and Jasmine, Cedarwood and Spruce, and Tea Tree and Basil
Longevity- Definitely didn’t last as long as other options I tried – barely made it through the day.
Ease of Use- Very easy and glides right on.
Packaging- Comes in stick form.
Staining- I did notice staining.
Irritation- I did have some mild irritation.
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:
I cannot use deodorants with baking soda. Which ones do not contain baking soda?
Pretty Frank is baking soda free and Suzi’s pick for best non toxic deodorant!
I personally like Native for sensitive skin.
Hi Patricia,
Yes, so many people really love them!
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.
Hi Andi,
Yes, I have tried them years ago, but just didn’t love sticking my hand in a jar. 🙂
Great list, but you forgot the best one! You’ve got to check out Nuud! Hands down the best I’ve ever used!
Hi Boni,
Thanks so much! I haven’t used them, but I’ll add them to my list. 🙂
Little seed farm is by far my favorite!
Hi Laura,
Thanks! I’ll have to try it!