earing deodorant leaves us feeling fresh and confident all day long. Deodorants are important in our hygiene routine and we often don’t leave the house without applying them.
Picking the right one is an important choice; it's not just a matter of choosing affordable or popular brands. The chemical composition of a deodorant can affect your health, contribute up to 15 billion pounds of plastic waste, and cause air pollution when fragrances containing volatile organic compounds react with some compounds in the air.
Traditional deodorants are often filled with chemicals like aluminum, parabens, triclosan, phthalates, and propylene glycol that can be harmful, and highly debated inconclusive claims indicate that they cause cancer, kidney disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Non-toxic refillable alternatives not only protect you from synthetic chemical ingredients that can be harmful in toxic quantities but also offer effective odor control, ensuring you can face the day with confidence and peace of mind. Additionally, the cruelty-free label means these deodorants are not tested on animals. These eco-friendly deodorants are not just a trend; they represent a shift towards more conscious living.
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What is a Non-Toxic Deodorant?
Non-toxic deodorants are products designed to control body odor using organic chemical compounds. Unlike traditional deodorants and antiperspirants, which often contain aluminum, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, non-toxic deodorants use natural ingredients to do the job.
Traditional deodorants and antiperspirants work differently. Antiperspirants use aluminum compounds to block sweat glands, reducing perspiration, while deodorants mask odor. The chemicals in these products can disrupt hormones, irritate the skin, and are said to increase the risk of certain cancers.
Non-toxic deodorants, however, rely on ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, and essential oils. These natural components neutralize odor and allow your skin to breathe and function naturally. By avoiding synthetic additives, non-toxic deodorants minimize health risks and offer a gentler, more sustainable alternative for everyday use.
Why Should You Switch to a Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Deodorant?
Switching to a non-toxic and refillable deodorant is a smart choice for several reasons. First, it's better for your health. Many conventional deodorants contain endocrine disruptors and other harmful chemicals in large quantities that are linked to serious diseases and cause skin irritation. Non-toxic options eliminate these risks.
Second, refillable deodorants significantly reduce waste. By opting for products with reusable containers, you cut down on single-use plastics in personal care products, contributing to a cleaner planet.
Lastly, many non-toxic deodorants are cruelty-free, ensuring that no animals are harmed in their production. Testing on animals is inhumane and painful, wastes time, and often doesn't contribute data applicable to human beings. Making the switch supports ethical practices and aligns with a more sustainable, health-conscious lifestyle.
Ingredients to Avoid in Your Search for Non-Toxic Deodorant
When shopping for non-toxic deodorants, it’s essential to read labels carefully. Here are some ingredients to steer clear of and why they’re best left out of your daily routine.
- Aluminum Compounds: Chemicals like aluminum chlorohydrate are often used in antiperspirants to block sweat ducts, reducing perspiration. Research has linked the aluminum accumulated in lymph nodes under the armpits to breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and kidney disease. Although this link is weak, the results are obtained from inconclusive research and the fact remains that aluminum toxicity causes bone disease and dementia. Avoiding aluminum allows your body to sweat naturally, which is a crucial part of its detoxification process.
- Parabens: Also including methylparaben and propylparaben, are preservatives used to prevent bacterial, fungi, and yeast growth on deodorants. The problem? They can mimic estrogen in the body, disrupting hormone function, and are claimed to potentially lead to breast cancer, but the evidence is weak.
- Phthalates: These are are endocrine disruptors often found in synthetic fragrances to make scents last longer. Unfortunately, they can interfere with hormone production and reproductive health, posing risks to both men and women. To avoid phthalates, look for deodorants that are free from synthetic fragrances altogether.
- Triclosan: This is an antibacterial agent added to many personal care products like deodorants, shampoos, toothpaste, and shower gel. While it might sound beneficial, it can disrupt thyroid function and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Choosing products without triclosan helps protect your endocrine system and supports overall public health.
- Propylene Glycol: This ingredient is used to give the deodorant its shape, but it can also cause skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals. More concerning, it's been linked to liver and kidney damage with prolonged exposure. Opting for deodorants without propylene glycol can help keep your skin and internal organs safe.
- Synthetic Fragrances: The term "fragrance" on a label can hide hundreds of different chemicals, including phthalates, many of which are allergens or hormone disruptors. Since companies are not required to disclose the specific ingredients within their fragrances, it’s a safer bet to choose deodorants that use natural scents from essential oils or are fragrance-free.
Non-toxic deodorants typically use natural, plant-based ingredients that work with your body’s natural processes rather than against them. By avoiding these harmful ingredients, you choose a product that’s not only safer for your body but also better for the environment.
Where Can You Buy Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Deodorants?
Finding non-toxic and refillable deodorants is easier than you might think. Many brands are now offering sustainable, skin-friendly options that you can feel good about using every day.
1. Online Retailers
The convenience of online shopping makes it a great place to start your search. Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, and The Detox Market carry a wide variety of non-toxic and refillable deodorants. You can browse customer reviews, compare products, and often find discounts or subscription options to save money in the long run.
2. Direct from the Brand
Many eco-conscious brands sell their products directly through their websites. This can sometimes be the best way to ensure you’re getting the freshest product, and brands often provide detailed information about their ingredients and refill programs. Some include ByHumankind and Native.
3. Department Stores
When it comes to department stores, the selection of non-toxic and refillable deodorants can be hit or miss. Stores like Nordstrom and Sephora are starting to catch on to the demand for clean beauty products and may carry a few options. However, the selection might be limited, and you might not find refillable options as readily.
4. Eco-Friendly Shops
Lastly, don’t overlook smaller, local eco-friendly shops. These businesses often prioritize sustainability and may carry niche brands that you won’t find in larger stores. Plus, supporting small businesses is always a win for the community.
12 Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Deodorant Brands That Are Cruelty-Free and Actually Work
1. Fussy
Fussy is the UK’s best pro-planet natural deodorant brand that offers stylish, sustainable deodorant that works with your body’s natural processes.
Pros and Cons: Pros include attractive packaging especially the artist collaboration ones and effective odor control. The cons are that the original packaging doesn't stand up and the sizes are not travel-friendly.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Extremely easy with refills made of compostable sugarcane pulp. Prevents bad odor for up to 24 hours.
Sensitive Skin: Gentle and non-irritating.
Scent Range: Lovely scents like Cloud Nine fresh, wavy days mint, forest haze woody, and limited edition scents.
Sustainability: 100 % Vegan, cruelty-free, plastic-free refills.
Packaging: Refillable cases made from aluminum.
2. Myro
Myro is a body care brand that stands out with its vibrant, refillable cases and plant-powered formula. They take pride in selling eco-friendly deodorants that work.
Pros and Cons: Pros include fun, colorful packaging, a pleasant scent variety, soft on the skin, and leaving no residue. However, its disadvantage is that it feels wet.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Refills snap in easily. It lasts all day even with intensive workouts.
Sensitive Skin: Suitable for sensitive skin with soothing ingredients.
Scent Range: Customizable pods and mood-inspiring scents like Chill Waves, Spa Day, Cabin No. 5, and Chai Sunrise.
Sustainability: Vegan, cruelty-free.
Packaging: The refillable cases are made from recycled plastic, and are recyclable.
3. Noniko
Noniko is a natural and plastic-free brand that combines natural ingredients with elegant design. Their products are handcrafted and focused on simplicity and purity.
Pros and Cons: Pros include a gentle formula that’s effective even on sensitive skin and a delightful scent range. Cons are that it may need reapplication on particularly hot days.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Refilling is straightforward and convenient. Typically lasts 24 hrs depending on usage.
Sensitive Skin: Excellent for sensitive skin, free from baking soda.
Scent Range: Offers Bergamot & Grapefruit, Lavender & Mint, and Green Mandarin scents.
Sustainability: Organic ingredients, vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged in minimalistic, eco-friendly materials.
Packaging: The packaging is made from recyclable stainless steel.
4. Wild
This is another popular UK brand based in London. It is cruelty-free, all natural brand and also produces eco-friendly soaps. They also specialize in a refill system that helps minimize waste. The all-natural formula means it’s 100% free of synthetic salts, parabens, or artificial fragrance.
Pros and Cons: Pros include a gentle formula and mild fragrance, plus the comprehensive refill system. Cons are that it doesn’t stop sweating, so if you prefer dry underarms, it may take some getting-used to.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Refilling is an easy process and each refill lasts between 6 to 8 weeks with daily use. You only need to apply 2 swipes on each side.
Sensitive Skin: Excellent for sensitive skin, and people who prefer a light scent.
Scent Range: They have Coconut and Vanilla, Jasmine & Mandarin Blossom, Orange and Neroli, Mint & Aloe Vera, Fresh Cotton & Sea Salt, Sandalwood & Patchouli.
Sustainability: Cruelty-free, Vegan Society Certified, and 100% nontoxic, plastic free refills.
Packaging: The packaging is made from aluminum and recycled plastic.
5. Hibar
HiBAR is known for its eco-friendly approach to personal care. Their deodorants are no exception, focusing on non-toxic, plant-based ingredients and plastic-free packaging.
Pros and Cons: Pros are easy push-up applicator. Cons are that it might need to be reapplied in warm weather.
Longevity: Lasts all day long.
Sensitive Skin: Great for sensitive skin with no harsh chemicals.
Scent Range: They have a range of scents like Aloe & Sea Moss and Pink Iris & Neroli.
Sustainability: Vegan, cruelty-free, natural plant-based ingredients.
Packaging: Zero-plastic packaging. The packaging is made of recyclable cardboard.
6. Salt & Stone
Salt & Stone is a brand that stands out for offering a range of high-performance body care products suitable for an active life.
Pros and Cons: Pros include effective odor protection for 48 hours and a sleek travel-sized packaging design. From reviews, some customers find the basil scent odd.
Longevity: The deodorant fights odor for up to 48 hours.
Sensitive Skin: Designed for all skin types, including sensitive.
Scent Range: The brand offers four scents. Santal & Vetiver, Bergamot & Hinoki, Black Rose & Oud, and Neroli & Basil.
Sustainability: Natural, and organic ingredients, vegan, cruelty-free.
Packaging: The packaging is made from up-cycled ocean plastics and is recyclable.
7. Helmm
Helmm is a brand that blends luxury with sustainability in its high-end, refillable deodorants.
Pros and Cons: The pros are the sophisticated scents, stain-free, prevent odors, and control wetness. Cons are the fragrance needs to be stronger on initial application, and due to being 100% natural, it has a heavier consistency, and rolls on less easily.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Hassle-free refills. The scents last up to 8 hours.
Sensitive Skin: Good for sensitive skin with a moisturizing base.
Scent Range: Luxe fragrances like Coastline, Trailblazer, Hudson, and Night Market.
Sustainability: Organic, cruelty-free, low-waste packaging.
Packaging: various options made of refillable nickel-plated zinc containers coated with rubber and travel friendly.
8. Proverb
Proverb is a brand that prides itself on its proven high-performance, plant-based ingredient deodorants and planet-friendly packaging made of paper-wrapped, compostable refillable tubes and glass reloads.
Pros and Cons: Pros include long-lasting protection and a smooth application. Cons are the high price tag.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Simple to refill. Typically leaves you feeling fresh all day.
Sensitive Skin: Smooth and comfortable on the skin.
Scent Range: They offer the Coconut & Tonka or Wild Mint & Eucalyptus scents or an unfragranced sensitive deodorant option.
Sustainability: Vegan, cruelty-free, eco-friendly.
Packaging: The refillable cases are made from sustainable materials like sugar cane, linen, and hemp.
9. Hammond Herbs
Hammond Herbs is a shop-zero-waste brand that uses herbal blends to create effective, natural deodorants for everyday use.
Pros and Cons: Pros are the soothing scents, zero-plastic packaging, and skin-friendly formula. The cons are that it is expensive.
Longevity: Smells good and lasts 24 hours.
Sensitive Skin: Excellent for sensitive skin, very gentle.
Scent Range: Fresh scents like Bergamot & Lime, Lemongrass & Peppermint, Orange and Patchouli, Tea Tree & Lavender, and an unscented option.
Sustainability: Organic, vegan, cruelty-free, plastic-free, and aluminum-free.
Packaging: Packaging made of compost materials.
10. Grove Collaborative
Grove Collaborative is a company that offers a wide range of eco-friendly, natural products for home cleaning, personal care, pet products, and beauty.
Pros and Cons: Pros are the convenience of delivery and eco-friendly ingredients. Cons are stains on clothes and a skin reaction in some people.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Refills are easy to use and fit well. Proven to prevent bad odor for 48 hours.
Sensitive Skin: Generally comfortable on skin.
Scent Range: Their Peach deodorants come in Cedarwood Eucalyptus, Coconut Jasmine, Cucumber Sage, and Citrus Vetiver scents.
Sustainability: Vegan, cruelty-free, aluminum-free, eco-friendly. Refillable and recyclable packaging.
Packaging: The products either have no single-use plastics or are 100 % plastic-free or 95% plastic-free.
11. Asuvi
Asuvi is a brand that combines sustainability with personalized customer experience to deliver an innovative natural deodorant range.
Pros and Cons: Pros are the effective formula and are smooth to apply. Cons are staining clothes and limited scent options.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Very easy to refill. Neutralizes bad odor all day.
Sensitive Skin: Good for sensitive skin.
Scent Range: Elouera, Aqua & Earth, and Palm Groove.
Sustainability: Vegan, cruelty-free, biodegradable refill tubes, free of Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Parabens, and phthalates.
Packaging: They have almost no plastic packaging and the refill tubes are compostable.
12. Salt of the Earth Natural Deodorants
Salt of the Earth Natural offers natural deodorants that are effective and free from harsh chemicals. They focus on sustainability and long-lasting performance.
Pros and Cons: The pros are it leaves no white marks. Cons are the fragrances can be too strong.
Refill Ease & Longevity: Easy to refill. Keeps you fresh but may need more than one application throughout the day.
Sensitive Skin: Great for sensitive skin.
Scent Range: Has a range of scents like Ginger & Jasmine Natural, Peony Blossom, Lavender & Vanilla Natural, and Vetiver & Citrus Natural.
Sustainability: Vegan, cruelty-free, 100% natural organic ingredients.
Packaging: Refillable packaging includes recyclable plastic or plastic-free options
Conclusion
Choosing a non-toxic, refillable deodorant is more than just a trend—it's a commitment to your health and the environment. When you opt for products free from harmful chemicals and reduce waste with refillable options, you make a positive impact on both your well-being and the planet.
The brands we've highlighted not only offer effective odor control but also ensure that their products are cruelty-free and eco-friendly. So next time you're on the hunt for a new deodorant, consider switching to a safer, more sustainable option. Your body and the Earth will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Toxic Deodorant
What deodorant is cruelty-free?
Cruelty-free deodorants are those not tested on animals. Brands like Native, Myro, and Wild are excellent cruelty-free options, ensuring ethical practices.
What is the best non-toxic deodorant?
The best non-toxic deodorant depends on personal preference. Popular choices include Native for its pleasant scents and Wild for its refillable system and long-lasting protection.
What is the safest deodorant to use?
The safest deodorants are those free from harmful chemicals like aluminum and parabens. Look for brands such as Cleo & Coco and ByHumankind, which use natural, skin-friendly ingredients.
What is a healthy alternative to deodorant?
A healthy alternative to conventional deodorant can be natural options like baking soda, coconut oil, lemon juice, or witch hazel. These can neutralize odors without the need for synthetic chemicals.
What naturally kills body odor?
Ingredients like baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil naturally kill body odor by neutralizing bacteria that cause it.
Does coconut oil work as a deodorant?
Yes, coconut oil can work as a deodorant due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties. It can help reduce the bacteria that cause odor.
Can coconut oil detox armpits?
Coconut oil detox masks can aid in detoxing armpits by moisturizing the skin, reducing irritation, and eliminating bacteria. However, it’s more effective when combined with other natural detox methods.
How to detox armpits?
To detox your armpits, use a mask made from bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Apply the mixture for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off. Repeat weekly for best results.
Is Native deodorant non-toxic?
Yes, Native deodorant is non-toxic. It is free from aluminum, parabens, and phthalates, making it a safe choice for daily use.
Does Europe allow aluminum in deodorant?
Yes, Europe does allow aluminum in deodorants, but the regulations and permissible levels are stricter compared to some other regions, allowing only 6.25% in spray products and 10.6% in non-spray products.
Is there a natural antiperspirant?
Natural antiperspirants are harder to find since most work by preventing sweat with aluminum compounds. However, some natural ingredients like arrowroot powder and baking soda can help reduce wetness to some extent.
