Struggling To Find A Natural Deodorant That Works? Try These Editor-Tested Options (2024)

Chances are you've been reaching for the same deodorant on the regular since your teen years, but recently there has been a push to ditch conventional deodorants or antiperspirants in favor of natural deodorant.

Natural deodorant is a great option for people who prioritize using products made with ingredients derived from nature. It's also the best option for people who prefer to avoid deodorants that contain aluminum. There is conversation that aluminum may be linked to diseases, like breast cancer, but there isn't any scientific evidence to support those claims. Still, if going natural gives you ease of mind, totally go for it.

Best Natural Deodorants

The tricky thing? "Natural" isn't a federally-regulated buzz word, so it's important to look at the ingredient list to really understand what you're putting on your skin. Efficacy is, of course, another huge concern—as is scent for many. So here's what you should think about before shopping for one.

What to consider

Ingredients

"For me, a natural deodorant is one that contains ingredients derived from nature rather than synthesized in a lab," says Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery in New York. "This means they are free from potentially harmful chemicals," she explains, noting you may want to look for aluminum-free deodorants, as well as those that don't contain parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, if you prefer a natural option, seek deodorants made with plant-based ingredients, essential oils, and natural antibacterial agents, like tea tree oil or vitamin E.

Efficacy

Natural deodorants work differently than traditional antiperspirants. "They don’t block sweat but help manage odor," says Kopelman. "It might take some trial and error to find one that works well with your body chemistry, but it’s worth the effort." We ranked the deodorants below based on whether testers said they fought odor well enough to apply just once or whether they had to reapply throughout the day.

Scent

Like their conventional counterparts, natural deodorants come in all different scents—from more woodsy, masculine scents to more floral fragrances. Lavender, tea tree, and citrus oils are popular choices, but personal preference reigns here. Choose the one that's most pleasing to you. "Just make sure the deodorant doesn’t contain synthetic fragrances, as these can be irritating to sensitive skin," says Kopelman.

How we selected

To find the best natural deodorant, the WH team consulted three dermatologists, plus asked our team of anonymous testers and in-house editors for the low-down on the brands and formulas they use and love. This final list includes something for everyone, from charcoal options to sweet-smelling floral picks. Read on for our guide to the best natural deodorants.

1. Native Coconut & Vanilla Deodorant

After testing over a dozen natural deodorants, we found cult-favorite Native deserved the best overall spot on this list for its hydrating ingredients, wide range of scent preferences, and affordable price point.

A favorite of Dr. Kopelman's, this deodorant is free from aluminum, parabens, and sulfates. "Instead, it includes ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter, which are gentle on the skin," she says. "I love the wide variety of scents, all derived from natural sources, making it easy to find one that suits my preference."

That's exactly what other users love so much about the brand, too. The formula is gentle, moisturizing, and (mostly) smells divine, testers told us. Fan favorites include the coconut and vanilla, lavender and rose, and eucalyptus and mint. Plus, it packs long-lasting power, says executive digital director Amanda Woerner. "I’ve tried a bunch of natural deodorants, and this one passes the ‘sniff test’ for me. I almost never have to reapply, and I live in Miami, where sweaty days are the norm!”

2. Kopari Natural Deodorant

This deodorant is everything a natural deodorant should be. It's free from aluminum, parabens, and sulfates. It doesn't contain baking soda, either, which is ideal for those with especially sensitive skin. While baking soda is used in a lot of natural deodorant formulas to help soak up moisture, Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, warns that because of its alkaline pH level, it can be irritating to some.

Editors who use this formula say it glides on easily and feels silky on skin—largely thanks to the coconut oil. Woerner agrees, though she also says it doesn't last all day. "Personally, I found this to be a ‘plan to reapply’ product—although honestly kind of worth it, because of how smooth it goes on, and how hydrating it is for the skin," Woerner explains. "Sometimes my underarms get irritated but this formula was so gentle and soothing that it cleared up any previous redness or bumps."

While the need to reapply means you should probably plan to throw it in your bag if you're on-the-go, we love that it comes in three different scents: original, driftwood, and beach. It's also vegan and cruelty-free. And, if you decide you love the stuff, you can score a pretty decent discount by using the brand's "subscribe and save" feature on their website.

3. Schmidt's Vanilla + Oat Aluminum-Free Deodorant

Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, Schmidt’s natural deodorant is made without baking soda and is also free of propylene glycol, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrance. Kopelman says it gets its strong odor-neutralizing properties from ingredients like magnesium to fight odor, arrowroot powder, and essential oils.

Users love the scents available, particularly this vanilla and oat option, which is reminiscent of freshly baked cookies. However, they note it doesn't last all day, particularly in really hot, sweaty climates. Still, we think it's a great drugstore option for the average person—especially considering users report no issues with residue on skin or clothing.

4. Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant

It is pricier than some other options on the market, but this deodorant from Malin + Goetz is specifically formulated to be non-irritating and have superior odor protection all at once. In fact, the company created this product with one of their founders in mind—Matthew Malin suffers from multiple skin diseases like eczema, rosacea, and fragrance allergies.

Users say the scent is strong, but undeniably pleasant. It smells "like a fresh summer day" and will have your pits smelling clean and odor-free. Testers told us the scent lasted all day—no need to reapply. It's all thanks to the eucalyptus extract and citronellal, which help naturally neutralize odor. As a nice bonus, this pick is both vegan and cruelty-free.

5. Weleda Deodorant Spray

Unlike other natural deodorants, this pick comes in a spray and uses pure essential oils to mask odors. The spray is free from synthetic preservatives and fragrances, colorants, and raw materials derived from mineral oils. "It encompasses natural, plant-based ingredients that aren’t harsh on the skin," says Kiran Mian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, who also notes how effective and pleasantly-smelling the deodorant is. Even better, it's available at a budget-friendly price point.

Users say they love the option of a spray, particularly because so many natural deodorants can be chalky and leave residue in their wake. Not this one, which goes on entirely clear and won't stain clothes. On the downside, it does contain alcohol, which can lend a burning sensation, particularly if your skin is extra sensitive. Some users also note the need to reapply after a particularly long, hot day.

6. Primal Paste Natural Deodorant

"Made with organic ingredients, this deodorant offers strong odor protection," says Kopelman. "It uses arrowroot powder and baking soda to absorb moisture and neutralize odor, while coconut oil and shea butter help keep the skin soft and smooth."

Overall, users say the formula goes on smoothly and offers good odor protection throughout the day, despite being entirely unscented. On very hot days, one user says you may have to apply twice, but that's not the norm. And as for those who don't like digging in the jar? You have the option of choosing one of the brand's sticks instead.

7. Shaklee Protect Deodorant

"This EWG-verified aluminum-free deodorant is a great option," says Dr. Zeichner. "The non-irritating formula is made with omega fatty acids and coconut fruit extract, and glides smoothly onto the skin." Shaklee's deodorant is packed with ingredients that naturally neutralize odors, too. "The formula combines antimicrobial zinc to minimize odor, and an amino acid derivative to regulate pH levels," he says. The deodorant is also made with charcoal powder and arrowroot to absorb wetness without blocking pores.

Users say it feels a bit wet when it goes on, which is a sensation that takes some getting used to, but dries quickly and offers solid odor protection throughout the day. And, though it isn't an antiperspirant, users say it really does work to keep the underarm area drier in hot weather, too.

8. Salt & Stone Santal and Vetiver Deodorant

Dr. Mian recommends this Salt and Stone deodorant for its potent ingredients. "It has a blend of probiotics, plant-based extracts, antioxidants, cornstarch for moisture absorption, and soothing ingredients to prevent irritation." The deodorant even contains hyaluronic acid to help keep the underarm area hydrated without feeling wet and sticky throughout the day.

Users love the texture, too, telling WH it goes on so much smoother than so many other natural deodorants out there. It doesn't leave any reside on the underarm or clothing either. As for the brand's 24-hour claim? Users tell us it really does last all day, eliminating the need for reapplication.

Meet the Experts

• Hannah Kopelman is a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery in New York.
• Joshua Zeichner, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
• Kiran Mian, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York.

Shop more of our favorite deodorants

Best Aluminum-Free Deodorant | Best Deodorants for Women | Best Deodorant for Sensitive Skin | Whole Body Deodorants