By Robin Tolkan-Doyle, Beauty Editor
According to a report by the American Journal of Public Health, almost 100% of what we put on our armpits gets absorbed into our bodies. That’s a scary thought considering so many deodorants and antiperspirants contain the controversial chemical ingredients aluminum and parabens, that have been associated with breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
So if you haven’t made the switch to a clean alternative yet, now’s the time., “Although we have no proof and don’t know the exact effects of every ingredient, it would seem reasonable to be careful and limit our exposure to unnatural ingredients that we find out causes issues down the road,” says Dr. Nava Greenfield of Schweiger Dermatology Group.
For people prone to contact allergies, Greenfield recommends looking for deodorantsfree of fragrances and preservatives, which have the highest likelihood of causing issues. Those ingredients are listed as propylene glycol, formaldehyde, and formaldehyde releasers.
One more important note to consider when choosing a clean underarm option is the distinction between deodorant and antiperspirant. “One hides a scent and the other prevents sweating, says Greenfield. “If you can, stick with the deodorants not the antiperspirant. If you really have an issue with sweating, visit your dermatologist who can help with prescriptions and other treatment options.”
Over the last decade, a slew of clean and natural stink and sweat eliminators have flooded the market. Whether you prefer to swipe, glide or spray, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite options below.
$9.99 USD
When founder Jeff Shardell learned that his daily deodorant was filled with harmful chemicals, he created his own in his kitchen using only four ingredients – beeswax, non-GMO cornstarch, baking soda and coconut oil.
Now with 15 heavenly scents, Humble’s effective, clean deodorants are helping men and women around the globe smell good and stay dry. The flowery Ylang Ylang scent is my fave.
PC: Humble Deodorant
$16 USD
Did you know that the popular natural essential oil brand Saje also makes deodorants?With a blended base of coconut oil, shea butter and oat extract, their latest stick stylefights odor, absorbs moisture, and glides on like a dream.
PC: Saje Deodorant
$16 USD
For those who prefer a spray-on version deodorant, this aluminum-free citrusy-scented formula is as effective as it is refreshing. Also free of irritating baking soda, Curie focuses on creating products for people who are pushing the boundaries day in and day out.
PC: Curie Deodorant
$15 USD
Possibly one of the most innovative deodorant brands my pits have come across, Each & Every deodorants are comprised of coconut oil, tapioca starch, antioxidant salt and earth wax. The packaging of this EWG-verified brand is made from sugar cane!
PC: Each & Every Deodorant
Color Up FRESH Enzymatic Deodorant
$24 USD
Color Up are pioneers in cannabis skincare and their CBD-infused deodorant is a game changer for people with super sensitive skin types.This incredibly soothing formula contains odor-eating enzymes and sweat-absorbing kaolin clay to absorb sweat.
PC: Color Up Deodorant
$14 USD
These biodegradable B.O. removing wipes are genius must-haves for every purse or gym bag. Sage, sandalwood, and horsetail plant fight away smelly bacteria while aloe soothes and cools.
PC: megababe deodorant
$16 USD
Created by Cynthia Besteman, a cancer survivor and former Broadway actress, these convenient roll-ons are handcrafted in small batches. The formula features gentle time-honored ingredients to restore and revive your skin including baking soda, kaolin clay and a hint of lemongrass.
PC: Violets are Blue Deodorant
$10.99 USD
I would wear this scent as a perfume if I could. This award winning brand of clean deodorant offers real 24-hour protection, is plant-based, vegan and found on most drug store shelves, so body odor does not have a fighting chance.
PC: Schmidt’s Deodorant