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Natural, aluminum-free deodorants you’ll actually want to use.

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Switching to natural, sustainable deodorant is so much more than a trend — it’s a step toward a healthier body care routine and a cleaner planet. Traditional antiperspirants often rely on aluminum salts to block sweat glands, alongside synthetic fragrances and preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin. Natural deodorants, on the other hand, work with your body, neutralizing odors without harsh ingredients or single-use plastic packaging. Here’s how to successfully make the switch and find the deodorant that fits your body best.

Make a smooth, natural transition

If you’re not yet on the natural deo train, making the switch from aluminum-based products can sometimes mean a bit of an adjustment period. And it’s totally normal! Your body is rebalancing after relying on antiperspirants to block sweat. During the first few weeks, you might perspire a little more or notice a change in odor as your pores begin to clear out built-up bacteria from conventional products. [1] Here’s how to ride it out:

- Stay consistent. Switching between antiperspirant and natural deodorant can restart the detox process, so it’s best to stick with your new product instead of experimenting.

- Exfoliate your underarms. A weekly body scrub, clay mask, or gentle chemical exfoliant can help remove residue and support the transition.

- Hydrate. Drinking water and supporting your microbiome with clean ingredients may help regulate odor from the inside out.

- Stay patient! Most people find that after 2–4 weeks, their body adapts and natural deodorant starts working with their body best.

Find the formula that fits your pits

Forget the natural deodorants of health food store yore. Today, there are tons of clean-ingredient options out there for every type of skin and application preference. Whether you prefer a stick, a cream, a gel, or a roll-on, you can find your perfect deo at Grove. Look for natural odor-fighting ingredients like baking soda, magnesium hydroxide, arrowroot powder, and charcoal, all of which help absorb moisture and neutralize bacteria without clogging pores. [2] Pro tip: If you have sensitive skin, you’ll want to look into baking soda–free formulas that use aloe vera or shea butter to soothe irritation. Not into fragrance but want vetted freshness? Choose unscented products, or look for formulas scented with plant-based essential oils only. And don’t forget to consider packaging! Many natural deodorants now come in plastic-free tubes, glass jars, or compostable sticks, reducing your environmental impact with every swipe. [3]

The Bottom Line

Making the switch to natural makes a really big difference

For your body and the planet alike! With a little trial and error, you’ll find a natural deodorant that keeps you fresh, healthy, and full of new sustainable impact.

Sources

  1. National Institutes of Health. “Antiperspirants and Deodorants: Understanding Skin and Microbiome Interactions.” https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/personal-care/index.cfm
  2. Environmental Working Group. “Guide to Safer Deodorants.” https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2024/07/deodorants-vs-antiperspirants-whats-difference
  3. Environmental Protection Agency. “Reducing Waste from Personal Care Products.” https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-waste-what-you-can-do