Natural deodorants will manage odor and sweat in a safe and effective way.  By relying on a select blend of Natural ingredients, including various starches, oils, probiotics, and more, a well-made natural Deodorant will deliver all-day protection.

But here’s the deal:

Not all natural deodorants are the same.  With so many options to choose from, its important to understand their key differences to determine which will work best for you.

Here’s what you should know before making your decision:

3 Tips for Buying a Natural Deodorant

Before buying a natural deodorant, consider the following:

1. Setting the appropriate expectations

When you read reviews of natural deodorants, men are often disappointed about sweat control – it’s a fair point.  But you must know this:

Natural deodorants are fundamentally different from antiperspirants.  Natural deodorants do not contain the aluminum compound, the active ingredient within antiperspirants that block your sweat glands. So when using natural deodorants, you should expect that there will still be some sweat.  Now companies add ingredients such as starch, clay, and other inhibitors to try and control the flow of sweat – but a natural ingredient will never be nearly as effective as an antiperspirant.  

Additionally, it’s essential to know that every man’s skin, hygiene habits, and environmental conditions are different.  Therefore, what works for one person may not work for you.

2. Ingredients

The ingredients found in natural deodorants vary significantly from one brand to another.  Broadly speaking, ingredients within these deodorants serve four primary purposes:

• Fragrance: In most instances, the scent will be from a natural source such as essential oils.
• Moisture Control: Corn starch, tapioca starch, and arrowroot powder are common ingredients to reduce sweat.  However, they won’t completely stop all moisture like an antiperspirant.
• Neutralizing Odors:  Sweat by itself is a colorless and odorless liquid.  However, armpits’ moist, warm, and dark environment provides a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Therefore, probiotics or baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) are added to neutralize the odor.
• Moisture: To counteract the dryness that starch or baking soda may cause, you will often find rich moisturizers such as coconut oil or shea butter added to the deodorant.   

3. Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, you should carefully test natural deodorants.  Just because an ingredient is natural or organic doesn’t mean it’s safe.  The FDA has recently stated the following regarding the topical application of essential oils:

Sometimes people think that if an “essential oil” or other ingredient comes from a plant, it must be safe. But many plants contain materials that are toxic, irritating, or likely to cause allergic reactions when applied to the skin.

For example, cumin oil is safe in food, but can cause the skin to blister. Certain citrus oils used safely in food can also be harmful in cosmetics, particularly when applied to skin exposed to the sun.

https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/aromatherapy

The takeaway: If you experience irritation after using a new deodorant, stop using it immediately and get your money back.  If you still prefer a natural deodorant, consider another one with just mineral salts.

Price Analysis

To better understand the options available to you, we put together this chart to see how several different deodorants compare to one another.  The data presented in the graph includes the price and the average customer rating from various online stores. 

Here are a few important notes regarding the data presented in the chart above:

• Price: This will vary from one retailer to another.  The price reflects the cost for a single stick (rather than a multi-pack).  We rounded up the price.  
• Rating: These are customer ratings.  The ratings are not weighted and were collected from various sources.
• Scale: The rating scale is 1 to 5; however, you’ll see in the chart above that all deodorants are considered “good” and have a rating of at least 3.50.

The Best Natural Deodorants for Men Reviewed

1. Best Overall: Oars + Alps Natural Deodorant

Finding a reliable and great-smelling natural deodorant can be challenging for some men.  However, it appears that Oars + Alps got everything right with their long-lasting and award-winning natural deodorant for men.

Relying on a plethora of natural ingredients, which include the following:

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
• Corn Starch
• Glycerin
• Alpine Caribou Moss Extract

You have a natural deodorant designed to eliminate odor and reduce your sweat output in as little as four weeks.  Unlike so many other natural brands made in faraway countries, Oars + Alps makes this natural deodorant here in the USA. It is free of aluminum, alcohol, glycol, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates.

The small 2.6oz size is travel-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about the TSA confiscating it when stored in your carry-on.  Lastly, given the gentle nature of these ingredients, this deodorant should have no problem working on any man’s skin type.

Read the in-depth review.

Pros

• Available in seven fragrances
• Reduces sweat and odor in 4 weeks
• Travel friendly

Cons

• Pricey

What You Need To Know

While it might be a pricey investment for a single stick of deodorant, the long-lasting and natural formula should prove worthwhile. If you want a safe and effective natural deodorant, this is one of the best picks out there for men.

2. Stain-Free: Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant

Vermont-based Ursa Major hits a home run with the pleasant-smelling and effective Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant.  With a eucalyptus-based scent, expect a nice and airy fragrance suitable for daily or post-gym wear.  Hoppin’ Fresh also contains baking soda and saccharomyces ferment to neutralize odor.  For moisture control, the Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant depends on a blend of kaolin clay and tapioca starch.   

The roll-on stick goes on light and contains no colorants.  So you don’t have to worry about it staining your favorite shirt or button-down with repeated use.  

Read the in-depth review.

Pros

• Pleasant scent
• Moisture-control
• Certified B Corporation
• Made in the USA

Cons

• It goes on a little too light

What You Need To Know

This is a natural and pleasant-smelling deodorant that you’ll enjoy working into your grooming routine.  The fresh scent, moisture control, and streak-free formula make it a top choice for many men.

3. Best for Sensitive Skin: Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick

With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.3 out of 5.0 rating, the Crystal Mineral Deodorant Stick is a simple and effective natural deodorant.  Containing only potassium alum (mineral salts), this ingredient is an astringent that tightens skin, reduces inflammation, and is antibacterial.  

With repeated use, you can expect this fragrance-free deodorant to neutralize scent and reduce sweat.  

Men well versed in traditional wet shaving are likely familiar with potassium alum as it is the same ingredient found in alum blocks, which are used as an aftershave to disinfect and clean the skin.

One notable downside to this deodorant is that with repeated use, it may cause dryness.  Therefore, you may want to consider applying a body lotion or other moisturizer to counteract dry skin.

Pros

• Contains one ingredient
• Affordable

Cons

• Causes dry skin

What You Need To Know

If you have sensitive skin, consider using a potassium alum deodorant.  This single ingredient is effective and is less likely to irritate.  Just be sure to moisturize if you experience dry skin.

4. Eco-Friendly Pick: Helmm Starter Kit

Do one thing, but do it exceptionally well.  That’s a motto that most men can appreciate, and this is the case when reviewing the Helmm deodorant.  Helmm, if you aren’t familiar, was founded in 2016 and is a maker of only deodorants and antiperspirants.  

Their aluminum-free natural deodorant is available in four scents ranging from cool and crisp to warm and sophisticated.  By relying on a blend of glycerin, sunflower seed oil, aloe vera, green tea, witch hazel, and more, you can expect moisturizing-focused deodorant.  

But what sets Helmm apart from so many other brands is their commitment to reduced waste.  Helmm claims that they are the first company to sell a refillable deodorant.  You keep the exterior while the pod for the deodorant is swappable.  It is estimated that this design reduces waste by 70%.

With that being said, the biggest downside is the price.  It is expensive at $30 for the Starter Kit, which includes the canister and one pod.  Refill pods are also rather pricey at $16 each. However, if you sign up for their subscription plan, the prices are a little lower at $18 for the starter kit and $12 for the pod.

Lastly, Helmm does make a sports deodorant and antiperspirant for better odor control and sweat management.

Pros

• Reduces unnecessary waste
• Well designed
• Several fragrances

Cons

• Expensive unless you subscribe

What You Need To Know

If there was ever a time to vote with your wallet and support an eco-minded company, then give Helmm a strong consideration.  The thoughtful and clean design makes this a borderline luxury pick as well.

5. Moisturizing: Bevel Aluminum-Free Deodorant

Known for their flagship safety razor, which we recently reviewed, Bevel’s makes uncompromising and well-performing grooming products – their aluminum-free deodorant is no exception.

Relying on a moisture-rich formula of coconut oil and shea butter, you can expect this deodorant to penetrate deep into your skin to provide long, odor-neutralizing protection.  The clean and classic scent is delivered through a rich blend of essential oils, including cedarwood, orange peel, ginger root, eucalyptus, and more.

While Bevel relies on tapioca starch and baking soda to control moisture, some men with an active lifestyle may not find it strong enough to manage sweat.

Pros

• Moisture-rich formula
• Inexpensive
• Strong odor protection

Cons

• Moisture-control is lacking

What You Need To Know

If you want a daily deodorant that penetrates deep to deliver a nice and classic scent, then this aluminum-free deodorant by Bevel is a top choice. In addition, it is competitively priced, making it a great value pick as well.

6. Best Scent: Baxter of California Natural Deodorant

Baxter of California has been a fixture in the men’s grooming industry for several years.  While their pomade, face wash, and shampoo are among their most popular offerings, their aluminum-free deodorant is also a head-turner.  

While subjective, the citrus and musk scent is among the best we found in a natural deodorant.  Derived from a blend of natural ingredients including pomegranate, seabuckthorn, yarrow, chamomile, acai, plum, and several other oils, it’s unique yet not overpowering.

While not as good at sweat protection as other deodorant brands we reviewed, if you are looking for a daily deodorant that you can wear around the house or the office, it’s a top contender.

For application, expect the stick to go on clear.  Available in two sizes: 2.65oz and 1.2oz.

Pros

• Pleasant scent
• Clear application

Cons

• Poor moisture control
• Pricey

What You Need To Know

If you have tried other Baxter of California products and were happy with the results, then give their great smelling aluminum-free deodorant a try – we think you’ll like what they have going on here.

7. Best Drugstore Deodorant: Tom’s of Maine

If you like that classic stick deodorant form that you may have previously used in an antiperspirant, then we think you’ll love Tom’s of Maine Natural Deodorant.

With 24 hour protection, Tom’s of Maine deodorants are made from a blend of natural ingredients, including aloe vera, sunflower seed oil, and hops; you can expect simple yet effective results.

Tom’s of Maine is a Certified B-Corp, ensuring that they adhere to the highest social and environmental standards, donate 10% of their profits to charities, and make their deodorants here in the USA – what’s not to love.

With a retail price typically under $7, you can find their deodorant at a local Walgreens, Rite-Aid, and more.

Pros

• Socially and eco-friendly company
• Simple ingredient list
• Widely-available
• Affordable

Cons

• Limited scents

What You Need To Know

Tom’s of Maine makes a perfect run-of-the-mill deodorant that will neutralize odor.  While their fragrances are limited, the low price and wide distribution allow you to pick up this deodorant today.

8. Without Baking Soda: Dr. Squatch Deodorant

Along with many other men, we absolutely love the products that Dr. Squatch has been putting out lately.  Not only do they consistently smell great, but they keep things simple by relying on a select few ingredients.

Their highly rated deodorant is available in six awesome scents.  Some of the standout ingredients within the stick include charcoal powder, probiotics, beeswax, shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin e oil, and a few select others.  

Expect reduced sweat after applying consistently for a few weeks, thanks to the inclusion of maltodextrin (a starch) and arrowroot.

Notably absent is baking soda (sodium bicarbonate).  Therefore, if you have dry skin, you’ll love that this deodorant should help keep your skin well-nourished and hydrated. In addition, the added probiotics will help to keep your skin well-balanced and stink-free.

Pros

• Several scents
• Select ingredients
• Trusted brand
• Contains probiotics

Cons

• No fragrance-free option 

What You Need To Know

Dr. Squatch consistently puts together products that men absolutely love – the deodorant is no exception.  Several scents and savings if you buy in bulk, this is a solid pick.

9. Contains Probiotics: Native Men’s Deodorant

Founded in 2015 and acquired by P&G in 2017, Native set the bar on what a natural men’s deodorant should be.  

The deodorant itself is full of a rich blend of natural ingredients – you name it, Native likely contains it.  You’ll find that this paraben and aluminum-free deodorant contains ozokerite, coconut oil, tapioca starch, and, yes, probiotics.  By helping to keep the odor-causing bacteria in check, probiotics balance out the skin’s pH balance to ensure that your armpits never stink.  

Aside from the carefully crafted formula, Native has one of the largest varieties of scents available in all the deodorant brands we reviewed.  At the time of publication, Native offers ten different and unique fragrances.  From a refreshing eucalyptus and mint blend to an intoxicating coconut and vanilla scent, you should have no problem finding one you’ll love.

Now, if you have sensitive skin and are a bit apprehensive about trying out this deodorant, don’t be.  Native put together a specially made pack for men with sensitive skin.

Pros

• Probiotics balance skin pH
• Several fragrances
• Well-reviewed

Cons

• The scent may not be strong enough

What You Need To Know

If you like to go with a popular brand, then Native would be the answer.  Their probiotic-based deodorant neutralizes bad smells and effectively controls sweat.

10. Luxury Pick: Malin+Goetz

Luxury skincare company Malin+Goetz put together an excellent array of natural and aluminum-free deodorants.  Available in select fragrances, including botanical, bergamot, and eucalyptus, they are earthy and refreshing without being overpowering.  

Rather than using baking soda, Malin+Goetz uses natural ingredients to neutralize the odor. For example, for the eucalyptus deodorant, they use citronellyl.  In their other varieties, you’ll find corn starch and probiotics as the active neutralizer.

You can expect the deodorant to go on clear and not leave any marks on your undershirt.  While this is a designer brand, the price is relatively high at $22 for a stick. However, they do offer a mini version for $14, perfect for testing and travel.

Pros

• Free of baking soda
• Won’t leave marks
• Classic scent

Cons

• Pricey

What You Need To Know

If you like well-made designer brands, then consider this award-winning natural deodorant by Malin+Goetz.  It effectively neutralizes body odor.

11. Budget-Friendly: Bulldog Original Stick Deodorant

We’re big fans of Bulldog Skincare around here.  The reason is that they deliver well-made grooming products that contain many of the same ingredients found in the premium brands for a fraction of the price.

In this sub $6 stick of deodorant, you’ll find a blend of natural ingredients, including corn starch, witch hazel, aloe vera, and a few others.  All of these work together to deliver a nice fresh and subtle scent.  Additionally, moisturizers should help to keep the skin soft.

Pros

• Simple ingredient list
• Affordable
• Easy application

Cons

• The scent may be too light for some

What You Need To Know

If you want a natural deodorant but don’t want to pay $20 for a single stick, consider Bulldog’s deodorant – it’s a great value pick.

12. Best Spray: Every Man Jack Natural Deodorant Spray

Spray deodorants provide a nice, quick, and even application.  However, the biggest problem with spray deodorants is that they are cold, wet, and may feel sticky.  This natural spray deodorant by Every Man Jack has none of those problems.  In fact, just the opposite.  

This dry spray deodorant goes on both light and dry.  Available in a cedarwood and sandalwood fragrance, expect a light woodsy aroma – perfect if you plan to double it up with a woodsy cologne.

The biggest downside to this deodorant is that it’s not 100% natural like others reviewed.  Therefore, if you are trying to get away from chemicals, you may want to consider alternatives.  Lastly, at 3.5oz, this deodorant isn’t travel-friendly.

Pros  

• Dry spray
• Lightly scented

Cons

• Not 100% natural
• Limited fragrances

What You Need To Know

If you like dry sprays but want to go with a natural alternative, this is one of the few options.  

13. Best Charcoal Deodorant: Duke Cannon Trench Warfare Natural Charcoal Deodorant

Duke Cannon makes tried-and-true products that are uniquely American and completely awesome.  While known notably for their Big Ass Brick of Soap, the Trench Warefare Charcoal Deodorant is a kick-ass stick that stamps out smelly pits.

Made primarily of activated charcoal, this deodorant will neutralize odor-causing bacteria instantly.  Now many men may be apprehensive about rubbing charcoal onto their armpits – we would be too – but know that this stick goes on clear and won’t stain your favorite undershirt.

Currently, Duke Cannon makes their natural deodorant in two distinct scents: sandalwood and amber (yes, please), along with bergamot and black pepper.

To sweeten the deal, Duke Cannon sells the deodorant at an honest $10 per stick.

Pros

• Doesn’t stain
• 100% American
• Affordably priced

Cons

• Limited scent lineup

What You Need To Know

If you want a reliable natural charcoal deodorant, give this one from Duke Cannon a try.  It smells great, it’s affordably priced, and it’s unique.

14. Trending: American Provenance

Founded in 2015, American Provenance makes all the necessary grooming staples for the modern man.  One of their most popular products, however, will be their lineup of natural deodorants.

Made from the finest ingredients, including coconut oil, beeswax, arrowroot powder, shea butter, and more, expect to smell great while enjoying all-day protection.

All of the deodorants from American Provenance are aluminum-free, paraben-free, and do not contain any synthetic fragrances.  In short, American Provenance is the real deal.

Normally, one would expect to pay a premium for such a deodorant. However, it is a great value purchase at $10 per stick ($9 if you subscribe).  Don’t worry; it’s not cheap because it is made in some faraway country – this stick is handcrafted right here in the good ole USA.

Pros

• Tried and true ingredients
• Inexpensive
• Several fragrances

Cons

• Baking soda may irritate

What You Need To Know

If you want to try a new men’s grooming brand, American Provenance should be given strong consideration.  The deodorant contains few ingredients, is competitively priced, and made in the USA.