Our writer braved smelly pits to see which deodorants, from aluminium-free sticks and creams to long-lasting balms and roll-ons, pass the sniff test
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Like many people, I’m becoming more concerned about sustainability and the ingredients in my personal care products. Natural deodorants have become more appealing, especially with refillable options becoming more common. Unlike antiperspirants, which tend to use aluminium salts to reduce sweating, natural deodorants are usually aluminium-free. Instead, many use absorbent powders, such as tapioca starch, to soak up moisture, alongside ingredients such as sodium bicarbonate to help neutralise the odour caused by bacteria.
Once confined to health shops, they’re now firmly mainstream, with sticks, creams and roll-ons lining the shelves and making bold claims about effectiveness and gentleness. But do they work? In practice, results are far less predictable. Natural deodorants don’t behave like antiperspirants, and what feels effective for one person may fall short for another. Choosing one tends to involve a fair bit of trial and error.
Best natural deodorant overall:
Luna Daily the All Over deodorant
Best budget refillable deodorant:
Wild refillable natural deodorant
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