I’ve tried and tested several natural deodorants without plastic or nasty ingredients for the last few months. Very few tick all the boxes of being low waste, effective, and kind on sensitive skin. I’ve found quite a duds and only a couple I truly trust to last all day.
If you’re looking to make the switch from traditional deodorant to a more Earth-friendly alternative, here is a good place to start. This is a selection of deodorants I’ve tried at length that come in plastic-free, recyclable packaging; the ones I recommend, the ones I don’t, and something to try (if you’re willing).
As with a lot of these switches, it comes down to personal preference. What works for me might not work for you. Natural deodorants tend to be a little pricey so in a bid to help you avoid any costly mistakes, I’m sharing my favourites.
Crystal Deodorant
I've always found a crystal deodorant to be effective and long-lasting with the bonus of being completely packaging free. It’s made from natural mineral salt that, when you wet the rock and swipe it under your arms, applies an invisible salt film preventing odour-forming bacteria. It’s non-staining, non-sticky, and hypo-allergenic so perfect for sensitive skin. There’s absolutely zero fragrance, which is deserving of bonus points from me but perhaps that's a negative for you. If so, I recommend Eden Perfumes for organic, ethically sourced fragrance. I’ve had mine almost 2 years and it’ll probably last another 2 so it really is an extremely low waste, cost effective deodorant. The only flaw is it doesn't feel like you're applying deodorant and therefore won't feel "protected", which is something I've always struggled to get over.
Pitt Balm
This product was gifted.
This is the most effective non-traditional deodorant balm I've tested. The formula is smooth and easy to apply, and on an average day I didn't find reapplication necessary. The balm comes in a little refillable tin with a fragrance free option as well as scented balms. I tried the Lime and Peppermint Deodorant, which had a lovely soft fragrance. Each pot should last you between 3-5 weeks based on applying a pea-sized amount (per armpit) each day. If you're looking to try a deodorant that's more like a traditional roll-on, Pitt Balm is the one I recommend. My only critcism is the lack of an applicator. Applying with your fingers can be inconvenient and a little messy.
Wild
Wild deodorant is aluminium free with compostable, plastic free refills, available on a subscription service tailored to your needs. I like the fragrance options, which are subtle and fresh, and having an applicator is super convenient. However, I do find the deodorant doesn't last all day. I have to reapply even on days where I did my normal activities. One refill lasted me a month even with twice daily applications. I've let me subscription roll but I think I'll be switching back to Pitt Balm as I found their deodorant more effective. If you want to try Wild, you can get a free case to go with your first order.
Cacao Pow Deo Bar
This product was gifted as part of a paid for feature but this review is not part of that collaboration.
I do not recommend this deodorant at all. Although it has some good qualities, it has many more pain points. Let's start with the good: this deodorant has a lovely gentle fragrance that’s not at all overpowering and won’t interfere with any other scents you wear. It comes packaged in a little glass pot that can be reused or recycled, and the generous 100g of product should last approximately 100 applications or up to 6 months. However, I found the deodorant didn't work and left marks on dark clothing, which didn’t always wash out unless I washed on a high heat. I found I had to reapply the deodorant at least twice a day, and application isn’t the most convenient. You have to warm the bar first for the product to glide on smoothly and it can get a little messy. This was best done fresh out of the shower or at least before you get dressed so it doesn’t transfer onto your clothing. There are more affordable and effective deodorants available so I suggest skipping this one.
Nuud Care Deodorant
I so badly wanted this deodorant to work out for me. The idea is fantastic; one application every 3-7 days with a single 20ml tube lasting up to 10 weeks. The formula prevents odour by neutralising bacteria with micro silver. There’s no aluminium, fragrance, or alcohol, and the packaging is a bioplastic sugar cane tube in a biodegradable cardboard box. I found the deodorant to be very hit or miss when it came to keeping me odour-free. I just couldn’t trust it to work effectively. Sometimes it would last for a few days, other times it wouldn’t work at all. I found I’d have to keep checking whether I needed to reapply and that wasn’t always possible. If there’s one thing I want from my deodorant, it’s trust worthiness and this wasn’t it. There’s a starter pack so you can see if it works for you without investing too much.
DIY Deodorant Recipes
I’ve found the most popular DIY deodorant, baking soda, is a little too harsh on sensitive skin. It doesn’t work for me but it might for you, and it’s a very low risk DIY since you’ve probably already got the ingredients in your cupboards. I’ve heard alcohol (like vodka) mixed with essential oils can work as a deodorant too, and is in a convenient spray making application easier. I prefer to stick with a crystal deodorant, which works well and requires much less effort, but you may find the DIY route is the best for you.
Have you tried any natural zero waste deodorants? Did they work? Please do leave your suggestions of deodorants to try (or any to avoid) in the comments.
