Let's get personal for a second: I sweat a lot. It seems like I'm always dripping to some degree, so deodourant is something I take ver seriously. I've owned countless brands over the years, but recently, I've started thinking a bit more about what I'm putting on my body [1].
Ever since I hit puberty, I've been an avid antiperspirant user, sometimes coating on additional layers throughout the day. In an effort to use safer products, I've started reaching for aluminium-free brands [2] instead, in hopes of finding one that can both do the job and be healthier for my skin. Keep reading to see how well five of them performed!
Tom's of Maine Coconut Natural Strength Deodourant
I was impressed with how long Tom's of Maine Fresh Coconut Deodourant [3] ($6) helped keep me stink-free, but I personally was sensitive to the coconut fragrance, which only seemed to grow stronger as the day went on. I'd be willing to give this brand another go in a different scent.
Overall rating:
Schmidt's Bergamot + Lime Natural Deodourant
Schmidt's Bergamot + Lime Natural Deodourant [4] ($18 for two) was my first foray into aluminium-free deodourant, and I adored it for the first few months. It was Summer in Arizona, and this deodourant can take the heat. But eventually, it was my skin (instead of my nose) that became sensitive to this one, and I had to move one.
Overall rating:
Kopari Aluminium-Free Deodourant
The beach-y scent of this Kopari Aluminium-Free Deodourant [5] ($14) is bottled paradise, and the coconut oil base ensures that it glides on smooth. I keep it in my bag 24/7 in case of an emergency, and it always makes me feel (and smell) like I'm on holiday. I'll admit that this brand does call for a reapplication or two during the day, but I love that it never feels slimy or thick after a fresh layer.
Overall rating:
Native Coconut & Vanilla Deodourant
This Native Coconut & Vanilla Deodourant [6] ($12) doesn't mess around. I started wearing it while working at a pool and beach in Hawaii, where — let's be honest — I sweated buckets day in and day out. I loved the long-lasting scent and the smooth feel of this one (pro tip: use only a swipe or two and rub it in after applying), but there were times when I started to literally drip deodourant, which can be embarrassing.
Overall rating:
Dove 0% Aluminium Cucumber & Green Tea Deodourant
Tied at the top is my current favourite: Dove 0% Cucumber & Green Tea Deodourant [7] ($6). The fragrance is light and clean, the deodourant is easy to apply, and it lasts all day for me. I'd like the ingredients to be even more natural, but because the product is aluminium-free, cruelty-free, and effective, I think I'll keep this one on hand for a while.
Overall rating: