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Courtesy of Salt & Stone
There’s been talk on social media suggesting that aluminum deodorant may be linked to health concerns. Because of this, you may have considered switching to natural deodorant. You’re likely also wondering whether these claims have any truth to them at all.
We spoke to board-certified dermatologist Dr. William Kwan to bust the myth once and for all–and the answer might surprise you.
- Best natural deodorant: Lume Whole Body Deodorant
- Celeb-loved deodorant: Salt & Stone Aluminum Free Deodorant
- There is no robust scientific evidence or research that proves aluminum deodorants cause or increase risk of cancer.
- Natural deodorants can be effective at controlling odor, but less so at minimizing sweat.
- If you want to manage odor and sweat, an antiperspirant deodorant containing aluminum is best.
What is the difference between natural deodorant and aluminum deodorant?
First, Dr. Kwan explains that it’s “important to note that deodorants mask body odor; they do not reduce sweating like an antiperspirant.”
When people talk about aluminum deodorant, they’re usually referring to antiperspirants, which not only minimize odor but also sweat. The main sweat-reducing ingredient in antiperspirant deodorants is aluminum.
On the other hand, natural deodorants typically use natural ingredients like cornstarch, tea tree oil, or arrowroot powder to control odor.
Is aluminum deodorant bad for you?
Here’s the good news for all you antiperspirant deodorant stans: there is no research to prove that aluminum causes cancer. It’s an internet myth that has no real scientific backing, according to Dr. Kwan.
“Aluminum and parabens have not been shown to cause cancer, most notably breast cancer,” he says. The American Cancer Society confirms there is no link between aluminum-based antiperspirants or deodorants and cancer.
Is natural deodorant actually better? The answer is complicated.
If you’re worried specifically about odor and prefer products formulated with naturally-derived ingredients, a natural deodorant might be right for you. Just know that it likely won’t minimize sweating. Dr. Kwan does advise to keep an eye out for potentially irritating natural ingredients, such as essential oils, though.
However, Dr. Kwan’s expert opinion is that aluminum deodorants are more effective overall as they tackle both odor and sweat. That’s because they keep underarms dry to prevent odor-causing bacteria, he explains.
Ultimately, Dr. Kwan says, “If someone wants to reduce sweating, an antiperspirant may be a better option.”
Top-Rated Natural Deodorants
Lume Whole Body Deodorant
Free of aluminum and baking soda, this fan-favorite natural deodorant contains pH-balancing mandelic acid to prevent odor before it begins. The best part? You can use it all over your body.
5-Star Ratings: 38,700+
Shopper Review: "I switched to this a few years ago. It’s the best — it prevents body odor completely. For me, I can do hard workouts or long hikes, perspire a lot, but not smell even after 3 days."
Celeb-Loved
Salt & Stone Aluminum Free Deodorant
Paige DeSorbo is a fan of this luxe deodorant that she says smells like an "expensive hotel." The aluminum free pick is made with prebiotics to help neutralize odor and seaweed extracts to moisturize and provide an effortless glide.
5-Star Ratings: 15,400+
Shopper Review: "I’ve tried so many natural deodorants, and there was always something slightly off, until I found Salt & Stone. This is the first one that truly checks every box for me. One of the biggest selling points is that it’s aluminum free, which was really important in my switch to a cleaner routine. The lasting power is honestly elite. I apply it in the morning and it’s still working well into the next day."
Native Deodorant
Achieve long-lasting odor protection with this deodorant free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and baking soda. Coconut oil and shea butter leave armpits silky smooth.
5-Star Ratings: 131,900+
Shopper Review: "The Lilac and White tea lasts ALL DAY. Like, I put it on at 7:30am and I wake up THE NEXT DAY and the smell of my pits gets me out of bed because they STILL SMELL LIKE LILAC AND WHITE TEA."
Kopari Aluminum Free Coconut Deodorant
This deodorant does more than just cover up BO. The anti-microbial formula works to break down odor-causing bacteria while moisturizing and soothing sensitive skin.
5-Star Ratings: 15,900+
Shopper Review: "I have been using this deodorant like 7 years and still going strong. I should be a spokesperson with how much I love this deodorant. It really does help with odor and sweat. I have tried many other brands and no luck."
Top-Rated Aluminum Deodorants
Dove Advanced Care Antiperspirant Deodorant
This invisible spray deodorant is the answer to avoiding stains on your clothes and controlling sweat. It contains pro-ceramide technology helps replenish the skin's barrier after shaving.
5-Star Ratings: 14,800+
Shopper Review: "This is an easy 5 stars. The smell is light, and it leaves me dry for literally hours! Worth the price. Also, I could shave and immediately spray this on and I don't get any burning sensations. I love Dove Deodorants and Sprays!"
Editor's Pick
Degree Advanced Protection Antiperspirant Deodorant
A personal favorite for effective odor and sweat control, this deodorant with body heat activated technology goes on clear and keeps me smelling fresh all day long (even after workouts).
5-Star Ratings: 18,600+
Shopper Review: "I have been using this deodorant for years! it's so effective and has great sweat resistance. I would always sweat through my clothes, but since using Degree that has completely stopped. I love the fresh smell and it does not stain on my clothes."
Dove Clinical + Care Antiperspirant Deodorant
Keep away hormonal, stress, and heat-related sweat with this deodorant that delivers all-day odor protection. The nourishing formula keeps you fresh and dry for hours.
5-Star Ratings: 11,700+
Shopper Review: "This is my favorite deodorant. It works very effectively for controlling sweat and odor for all day, regardless of activity level. The deodorant scent is mild and a nice, fresh and clean scent- not overpowering or perfumey at all."
Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant
The pH-balancing formula of this deodorant provides hours upon hours of sweat and odor protection. It contains hyaluronic acid to strengthen the skin’s barrier, preventing irritation.
5-Star Ratings: 25,900+
Shopper Review: "I’ve tried a lot of antiperspirants over the years, but this clinical strength deodorant really stands out. It provides excellent sweat and odor protection, even on busy or stressful days. Whether it’s heat, activity, or stress-related sweating, it keeps me feeling dry and confident for hours."
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