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These Aluminum-Free Deodorants Are Better Than You Think
Long-lasting freshness with cleaner ingredients.
At some point in life, conversations about natural beauty become commonplace. One friend might choose more DIY hair solutions (flaxseed gel, anyone?), while another swaps mouthwash for oil pulling. Perhaps the most talked-about and hotly debated topic is the best aluminum-free deodorant. Once frowned upon, it is now loved, thanks to the many elegant and pleasantly scented options available.
For a long time, many conscious shoppers have been skeptical of the potential harm caused by aluminum-based products. “These concerns include theories linking aluminum exposure to an increased risk of breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, although scientific evidence supporting these links is inconclusive,” says Lindsay Holdorf, Dermstore’s resident esthetician.
Our picks for the best aluminum-free deodorants of 2025
Although research from the American Cancer Society states that no link has been found between aluminum deodorants and cancer risk, aluminum-free fomulas have garnered considerable interest as an alternative to traditional deodorizers. Natural options don't directly prevent sweat as antiperspirants do, but common ingredients like baking soda help to absorb excess moisture. And contrary to popular belief, these alternatives are actually quite effective in neutralizing unpleasant smells, as they work to target bacteria.
With so many options available, finding the right one isn't an easy feat, so we did the hard work for you by turning to the pros. Ahead, we gathered the best aluminum-free deodorants on the market, hand-selected by ELLE editors and experts.
Pros
- Can be used on full body
Cons
- May not be best for those who perspire a lot
Think of the energizing, calming bubble you walk into at your favorite spa—this is the deodorant equivalent. Wake, true to its name, takes invigorating grapefruit and lemon and combines it with eucalyptus to keep your armpits refreshed without causing irritation.
Size: 1.8 fl oz
By Rosie Jane rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I am a true natural deodorant hater after a very popular brand gave me a harsh chemical burn. Never in a million years did I think I’d return to natural, aluminum-free deodorants, but By Rosie Jane’s iteration was a welcome surprise. This deodorant has a bright, morning-ready scent that keeps odor at bay.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Controls odor for long
Cons
- Will need to reapply throughout the day
Don’t let the heavenly scent fool you—underneath, it’s a powerful formula that keeps you dry, cool, and smelling great. Fans of Shea Moisture’s signature Coconut and Hibiscus aroma will love its deodorant counterpart, which is also made with shea butter for hydration and arrowroot to absorb excess sweat.
Size: 2.6 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I love this deodorant, it keeps me smelling fresh even after gardening in the hot sun and it does not irritate my sensitive skin.”
Pros
- Perfume-like scents
Cons
- Some found it ran out quickly
This deodorant uses elderberry extract and coconut oil to nourish the delicate skin on your underarms, while potato starch absorbs sweat and keeps them drier. It also comes in a refillable vessel, so you can keep swapping in different scents—like the subtle Glossier You or a sandalwood option.
Size: 2.2 oz
Glossier rating: 3.5/5 stars
A Glossier reviewer says: “I have extremely sensitive skin and have tried different deodorants over the years; some stained my shirts, most were unscented. This is the first deo I’ve tried that didn’t irritate my skin and yet has the best smell (I use Sandstone).”
Pros
- Helps absorb sweat and stop odors
Cons
- Some may not like the cream formula
If you prefer a cream deodorant to a roll-on, Drunk Elephant’s soothing formula fits the bill. Mandelic acid keeps odor at bay, while arrowroot powder helps soak up sweat; shea butter moisturizes and conditions the underarms.
Size: 2 oz
Sephora rating: 3.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This has worked perfectly for me, the many years I’ve used this. Not the slightest hint of body order, no irritation, and since I wear perfume, I love that it’s unscented. It also doesn’t stain my black tops.”
Pros
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- You will need to reapply
This deodorant treats your underarms the way you treat your skin: with AHA acids to brighten and deodorize, hyaluronic acid to impart moisture to the skin, and aloe vera juice to soothe any irritation.
Size: 2.4 oz
Sephora rating: 3.9/5 stars
An ELLE contributor says: “Natural deodorants don’t normally work that well for me since I tend to be sweaty, but the one thing I really like about the Kosas Sport Chemistry is how gentle and cooling it is on the skin. My skin is super sensitive, especially after I shave, and I appreciate that this aloe- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula went on so smoothly and caused zero irritation. What’s more, even on more humid days, the formula never pilled.” —Sam Peters, Hearst senior commerce editor
Pros
- Nourishing formula
Cons
- Packaging can leak over time if not handled properly
Developed in a kitchen by two actors from London’s West End, AKT’s deodorant balm has quickly climbed up the ranks to become a favorite of celebrities and athletes alike. The natural deodorant is beloved by actresses like Rosamund Pike and Beyoncé’s backup dancers, a testament to its chic packaging, high-performance formula, and scents worthy of a luxury perfume.
Size: 1.7 oz
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
Our expert says: “This deodorant has single-handedly made me part of the ‘natural deodorant club’—but I don’t smell like it! It’s high-performing, and I dare you to put it to the test against your regular deodorants. I love the orange one, which faintly smells like Fruit Loops! For a luxurious experience, apply with AKT’s gold applicator. The gold key helps me squeeze every bit of product out of the tube.” —Danielle James, beauty expert
Pros
- Scent lasts all day
Cons
- Consumers complain it sticks to your clothes and leaves stains
When people hear “aluminum-free,” they instantly think of smelly pits. Who said you have to ruin your perfectly layered scent combo when using aluminum-free deodorants? Add Saltair’s Natural Deodorant to your lineup, and you’ll instantly become a convert. This deodorant is packed with skin-loving ingredients, like salicylic acid, to properly treat your pits and keep odor away.
Size: 1.76 oz
Saltair rating: 4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I shop for deodorants the way I do skin care—it should be packed with AHAs for correcting and other skin-loving ingredients for added nourishment. Saltair’s Santal Bloom addresses ingrowns and hyperpigmentation via a blend of acids to keep my ‘pits bump-free, brighter, and smoother. Plus, who doesn’t love a warm and refreshing scented deodorant?” —Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Masks strong body odor
Cons
- Scent might be too strong for some
Even the strongest B.O. can’t be detected when you wear this deodorant. With seven different scents, including unscented, you can find the perfect one to match your perfume.
Size: 2.5 oz
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I put this on in the morning and it lasts all day, no problems. I don’t sweat as much, so it’s effective as an antiperspirant, at least for me. I was impressed that at the end of the day I wouldn’t feel gross and notice my armpits smelling.”
Pros
- Provides up to 24 hours of odor protection
Cons
- Does not prevent sweat stains
If you’ve been using Dove deodorant for years, it’s time for an upgrade. This three-pack doesn’t contain alcohol or aluminum, but promises to leave your underarms smelling like jasmine and coconut for up to 24 hours.
Size: 2.6 oz
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Very smooth, great protection, and lasts a long time.”
Native Native Sensitive Deodorant Contains Naturally Derived Ingredients | Deodorant for Women and Men, Aluminum Free, Baking Soda Free, Phthalate Free, Talc Free | Cucumber & Mint (Sensitive)
Pros
- Clinically proven for effective odor protection
Cons
- May have to reapply multiple times throughout the day
If you want to smell delicious from dusk until dawn, this deodorant will do the job. It also comes in a myriad of other scents, so you can find the one that speaks to you. You’ll be amazed at how long the scent lasts.
Size: 2.65 oz
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I don’t think I’ve ever written an Amazon review before, but it’s rare that I’m this happy with a purchase, and I had to give credit for how psyched I am with this deodorant.”
Pros
- Catered toward sensitive skin
Cons
- Application may feel sticky due to gel formula
For people with extremely sensitive skin, this deodorant is free of all the irritants present in traditional formulas—no dyes, scents, clays, or minerals. Instead, you’ll be left with only the good stuff and pleasant-smelling underarms.
Size: 2 oz
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I find it gives all-day odor-free protection with zero irritation.”
Pros
- Completely invisible formula
Cons
- Fragrance may not last all day
For a completely invisible formula, this eucalyptus-scented deodorant avoids alcohol and harsh chemicals but still battles body odor all day long.
Size: 2.6 oz
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “It's genuinely a struggle to find an effective deodorant that does not cause a reaction, and this one absolutely has done IT!”
Pros
- Plastic-free
Cons
- May not work well for sweatier people
From the makers of your favorite face masks, this plastic-free deodorant actually absorbs sweat instead of only masking it. It also has a clear formula, so you won’t look down and see white streaks on all your clothing ever again.
Size: 1.7 oz
Evolvetogether rating: 4.9/5 stars
An Evolvetogether reviewer says: “I love this all natural product as well as the packaging. No chemicals. Nice and light. Amazing.”
Pros
- Made without aluminum, alcohol, and baking soda
Cons
- Takes a while for it to fully stop body odor
Esthetician Brian Nourian recommends looking for a deodorant with clean ingredients, which is key to ensuring your pores won’t clog. This deodorant never uses aluminum, alcohol, or baking soda. However, it does use incredible natural ingredients and prebiotics that fade body odor over time.
Size: 2.6 oz
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Awesome deodorant. I typically get itchy and hate wearing it, but this feels like it’s not even there, which I love. Smells great.”
Pros
- Brightens dark underarms
Cons
- Reapplication may be needed
This gel formula prevents odors, brightens dark underarms, and soothes any bumps or irritation. If you suffer from chronic ingrown hairs, this deodorant is the antidote.
Size: 1.7 oz
Sephora rating: 3.9/5 stars
Our expert says: “This deodorant smells delightful. It did not irritate or darken my armpits. If you want no body odor, apply this multiple times throughout the day. I found I started to smell myself after four to five hours.” —Danielle James
Pros
- Goes on clear
Cons
- May melt in warmer conditions
This product treats your skin instead of covering up unpleasant scents. After using it a few times, you’ll be amazed at how soft your underarms feel.
Size: 2.5 oz
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “This is expensive, BUT one stick has lasted me over a year!! I think it smells great and works great!!”
Pros
- Goes on clear
Cons
- Slow drying
Unwanted smells and irritation are some of the most common underarm complaints. This deodorant works against those two common woes by using corn starch, healthy butters, and non-irritating scents to make your pits smell like a bouquet of roses.
Size: 2.6 oz
Ulta rating: 4/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “Great purchase. I have a sensitivity to baking soda, which is in most aluminum-free deodorants. No sensitivity to Megababe Rosy Pits.”
Pros
- Absorbs quickly
Cons
- Can leave a slight residue
The Sol De Janeiro's body creams are known for their indulgent summertime scents, but you can take that feeling a step further with their aluminum-free deodorants. This formula uses tapioca starch and citric acid ester to absorb moisture and fight bacteria. It also has notes of vanilla, violet, and sandalwood to leave behind the beloved Cheirosa scent.
Size: 2 oz
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “I never thought I’d be a fan of a vanilla scented deodorant, I usually favor cleaner lighter scents but this one really surprised me. The scent wasn’t overbearing at all it it actually worked to keep away any sweaty smells. I pride myself on never being caught outside with smelly pits and this deodorant is now a trusted member of my hygiene rotation.” —Tasha Nicole Smith, beauty assistant
Meet the Experts
Lindsay Holdorf is a licensed esthetician and Dermstore’s resident esthetician.
Dr. Karan Lal is a celebrity dermatologist and director of pediatric dermatology and cosmetic surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Brian Nourian is the co-founder of Le Jolie Medi Spa.
Is aluminum bad for you?
“Aluminum salts are used to plug up the sweat glands in antiperspirants to reduce sweating,” says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. For a long time, there were concerns that aluminum in beauty products could be linked to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. However, according to Dr. Lal, that link has yet to be proven. Generally speaking, antiperspirants–aka products formulated to reduce sweat–are more likely to contain aluminum than deodorants, which are created to mask the scent of sweat.
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