18 Best Aluminum-Free Deodorants for Men

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This article was published in partnership with Blu Atlas.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being picky about the ingredients or substances you’re willing to put in your body.

Aluminum is renowned for its ability to soak up sweat- and odor-causing bacteria, which is why so many mainstream deodorants include it in one form or another. However, aluminum has also been linked to a variety of ailments. While the scientific community is far from forming a consensus on the safety (or lack thereof) of aluminum-based deodorants, we recognize that many consumers prefer to err on the side of caution.

The question becomes: Which aluminum-free products can protect you from unwanted odor and sweat? Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. So sit back, relax and carefully review our list of the 18 best aluminum-free deodorants for men this year.

Buying an all-natural aluminum-free deodorant? Here’s what you need to know.

Not all of the deodorants on our list of the 18 best aluminum-free deodorants would qualify as natural deodorants. That’s because not every deodorant that excludes aluminum is necessarily 100% natural. Nevertheless, many of our picks do go the natural route, and there are some things about natural deodorants you may want to know – especially if you’re a first-time user.

We should warn you that your body might need some time to adapt to a natural deodorant. If you notice a little bit of body odor and more sweat in the first week or two of wearing your new all-natural product, don’t fret. It’s a perfectly normal part of the adjustment process.

You see, most deodorants are filled with chemicals. When we take away these substances, our bodies might experience a “cleansing period.” For our armpits, that might mean excess sweat and odor. But trust us, just stick with it. It might take time for your body to get used to the new conditions.

Sweating is natural and is, of course, a sign of a well-functioning body. Sweat by itself does not smell. It only smells when bad bacteria attach themselves to it. Once your body has flushed away the chemicals it has grown accustomed to, it will begin soaking up the antioxidants and nutrients of your new natural deodorant. At this point, your sweat levels will fall and your body odor will gradually abate.

If you’re in absolute need of neutralizing your body odor during the adjustment phase, we recommend applying a baking soda paste to your armpits. Wet your fingers, take a dime-sized amount of baking soda for each armpit, and rub gently onto the armpit area in slow, circular motions. Take care not to apply too much baking soda directly to your skin, as doing so can risk burning it and creating lesions.

Non-aluminum antiperspirants: They do exist!

While antiperspirants are generally thought of as aluminum-based products, there are natural products that can have antiperspirant effects. So, if you’re searching for a deodorant that will help absorb excess moisture and oils from your armpits, look for products with the following ingredients.

Volcanic Ash (Bentonite)

Volcanic ash, or bentonite, excels at absorbing excess moisture. It’s also a great detoxifying agent, so it will take care of odor-causing bacteria. Oh, and it’s surprisingly gentle, so if you have sensitive skin you don’t need to worry about irritation. This potent sweat-stopper is featured in the formula of our top-ranked aluminum-free deodorant: Blu Atlas.

Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay is similar to bentonite, though some people don’t think it’s quite as strong. Without wading into that debate, what we do know is that kaolin clay is great at absorbing skin toxins and moisture. You’ll find kaolin clay in the Horace natural deodorant we describe in our guide.

Arrowroot Powder

Arrowroot powder is jam-packed with vitamins, zinc and other nutrients. Not only will it be a welcome aid for your skin cells, but it will also soak up moisture under your arms. It’s also true that soothed skin absorbs more moisture than irritated skin, so the vitamins in arrowroot powder will also help with that process. The Jack Henry and Art of Sport deodorants, listed above, both feature arrowroot powder in their gentle formulas.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch has long been recognized for its highly absorbing properties. Though this ingredient is more old-school than some of the ones listed above, don’t discount our ancestors’ remedies. Lumin’s natural deodorant features cornstarch as its primary ingredient for soaking up excess moisture.

The More the Merrier

Some of the products on our list of the best aluminum-free deodorants use these ingredients in combination. Truth be told, none of these ingredients alone are as powerful at stopping sweat as aluminum. However, we can safely say that they are ultimately better for you and the environment than the metal-based formulas. Pick up one of the ranked deodorants on this list, and your body will thank you for it!

Our first pick is this botanically boosted deodorant from top men’s grooming line Blu Atlas. This high-performance product has a powerful blend of 99% naturally-sourced ingredients for long-lasting odor and moisture protection. The ultra-clean formula is dermatologist-recommended, and is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and artificial fragrances.

This freshly scented formula from Jack Henry provides a guaranteed 48 hours of odor-blocking protection in a fast-absorbing and stain-free solid formula. Natural ingredients work to absorb excess sweat throughout the day, while a fragrant blend of bacteria-busting botanicals keeps you fresh and clean.

This top-rated deodorant comes from innovative grooming brand Bravo Sierra. The non-irritating formula offers enduring sweat and odor protection with unique, all-natural ingredients. Stain-free and fast-absorbing, it is available in four fragrance options, as well as unscented.

This gentle and aromatic deodorant from Olivina Men provides a guaranteed 24 hours of odor protection in an essential-oil-based formula. The best-selling product features effective natural ingredients that kill odor-causing bacteria while regulating sebum production in the skin for lasting freshness. Free of synthetic and harsh additives, it is ideal for all skin types.

Harry’s is an artisan men’s grooming brand with a commitment to affordable and top-quality products. The aluminum-free formula of their deodorant effectively controls odor for up to 24 hours while calming and soothing the skin with refreshing botanicals. It is free of preservatives and silicone for gentle protection of even the most sensitive skin.

This mineral-powered deodorant comes from premium men’s skincare line Lumin, known for its use of simple yet powerful ingredients. The product includes an effective blend of all-natural ingredients that neutralize odor and absorb excess moisture. Not only is it a great natural alternative to toxic antiperspirants, but it also has proven skincare benefits.

Coming in hot at number seven on our list of the best aluminum-free deodorants for men, this top-selling deodorant from botanical men’s grooming brand Triumph & Disaster is another solid option for refreshing odor protection that lasts. It delivers a comprehensive blend of naturally antibacterial and skin-balancing ingredients, as well as fragrant essential oils. This brand has done its research on proven, effective natural skincare ingredients, and it shows!

Next, we recommend this powerful and all-natural deodorant from eco-friendly Australian brand Hunter Lab. The protective formula works to neutralize odor and absorb excess moisture without the use of harmful additives like aluminum and alcohol. This stainless roll-on deodorant banishes odor and excess moisture with safe and effective ingredients.

9 susanne kaufmann deodorant stick line m

Spa brand and insider favorite Susanne Kaufmann offers this premium mineral-based deodorant that features a variety of powerful active ingredients for aluminum-free freshness throughout the day. The vegan, cruelty-free formula is safe for all skin types and ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin. The gentle, odor-neutralizing components combine with natural anti-inflammatories and comforting moisturizers for soothing yet effective odor protection.

Art of Sport offers targeted and long-lasting odor protection with this deodorant, designed for use by professional athletes. The natural, high-performance formula is free of aluminum, parabens, alcohol and other harsh chemical additives. This impressive product is consistently among the top-rated natural deodorants on the market, and we can see why!

This clean deodorant from boutique grooming line Horace is another great option for plant-powered odor protection that lasts all day. The clinically tested formula prevents and reduces odor while refreshing and softening the skin. With 95% natural ingredients and 100% recyclable packaging, this is a top eco-friendly choice.

Award-winning men’s grooming brand Hawthorne offers this high-performance and ultra-clean deodorant with moisture-blocking protection. The gel-based formula glides on easily and features high-quality botanical ingredients that treat odor and nourish your skin while preventing sweat buildup. Both effective and non-irritating, it is conveniently available for subscription to be delivered every 18 weeks, so you never miss a day of freshness.

Oars + Alps is a popular brand for effective and eco-friendly body products. Their deodorant features a powerful blend of potent ingredients that absorb excess moisture while killing bacteria and protecting underarm skin. This soothing formula provides dryness without irritation, and is a great option for all skin types.

Don’t miss this advanced natural deodorant from the innovative Australian skincare brand Grown Alchemist. The gluten-free, vegan formula includes a range of high-performance botanical ingredients, carefully curated and ethically sourced from around the world. The unique fragrance and lasting results make this a top choice for many men.

Spice up your hygiene routine with this simple and effective deodorant from affordable men’s grooming line Every Man Jack. This brand’s commitment to high-quality, natural body products is evident in its best-selling men’s deodorant. It features 99% natural ingredients for targeted odor protection that is safe for both you and the environment.

You don’t have to look beyond the drugstore to find a quality aluminum-free deodorant. Dove is one of many mainstream brands to develop aluminum-free options as consumers opt for safer and more natural body products. Their non-irritating deodorant guarantees 48 hours of odor protection, along with plant-derived hydration, and a smooth, stain-free application.

This acclaimed deodorant from esteemed men’s grooming line Baxter of California is another strong option for clean and long-lasting odor protection. The transparent gel formula glides on smoothly, and is stain-free and fast-absorbing. Not only does this product combat odor, but it also conditions and nourishes the underarm skin with powerful botanical ingredients for an intensely clean feeling.

Closing out our list is this stylish option from innovative fragrance and grooming line Le Labo. The lightweight formula neutralizes odor with an enticing scent and skin-loving ingredients. It glides on smoothly for a residue-free finish and protection that lasts throughout the day.

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