Technically, there's no such thing as aluminium-free deodorants (or aluminum-free deodorants, if you're American). Unless also an antiperspirant, none of them should actually contain the ingredient.
Confused? Up until recently I wouldn't have known the difference between an antiperspirant and a deodorant, either. They do the same thing, surely? That is: stop your pits from smelling. In fact, deodorants make your sweat smell better (i.e. deodorise), while antiperspirants block your pores to stop you from sweating as much.
I'll cut to the chase: about a year ago I was told there's a high chance I'll have breast cancer at some point in my life. It came as no shock; my mum had it and my dad's mum died from it, so it runs on both sides of the family. I also have Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, which means I have a higher risk for a BRCA gene mutation according to CDC. Morbid, I know, but it's meant that I've become quite cautionary towards substances that might (even if microscopically) increase my probability.
While there's no definitive link between aluminium-based antiperspirants and breast cancer, a 2017 study “showed an earlier age of disease onset in breast cancer patients that had used aluminium-containing antiperspirants combined with underarm shaving.” Underarm skin actually doesn't absorb much aluminium - only around 0.01% - but, when the skin is damaged or you've just shaved, this can go up to 0.06%. Though that's still no where near a dangerous amount, if you're like me and the thought of something ‘blocking’ your pores makes you feel ill, plus you'll do anything to prevent something further down the line, you'll probably still want to play it safe by going the aluminium free route.
Ready to buy? Below are all the aluminium-free deodorants that come most recommended through reviews and/or personal use.
If you're looking for the best natural deodorants, including all the fragrance-free, eco-friendly and refillable deodorants, we've got those too.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Customer Favourite Caudalie Vinofresh Natural Stick Deodorant 50gWhy we love it: The 200+ reviews for this on ASOS speak for themselves but I love it for its refreshingly cool feel and invigorating smell. Eucalyptus and grape, in case you were interested.
Save when you shop for aluminium free deodorants with these ASOS discount codes.
Drugstore Aluminum Free Deodorants: Best Aerosol Dove 0% Aluminium Cucumber & Green Tea Deodorant Aerosol 200mlWhy we love it: One I tend to revert back to time and time again, you just can't go wrong with Dove's deodorants - especially when they're aluminium free. I especially love an aerosol design, too.
Dermatologist-Approved Alcohol/Aluminium Free DeodorantsLa Roche-Posay 24H Physiological Roll-On Deodorant 50mlWhy we love it: While I can't confirm that it prevents me from smelling for a whole 24 hours - as I tend to shower in between that time - I can say it lasts a while. A great one for summer.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best Scent For Odor ProtectionSol de Janeiro Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant 57gWhy we love it: Rio Deo is scented in that same yummy, summery fragrance Sol de Janeiro's known for, so it's an instant win for me. However, it can sometimes leave white marks.
Save when you shop for aluminum free deodorants with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Aluminum Free Deodorants: Best Spray DeodorantAesop Herbal Deodorant 50mlWhy we love it: Designed for all genders, Aesop's Herbal Deodorant is the perfect top-up to keep in your bag. The spray design makes it easy to apply, too.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best Extra StrengthVichy 24 Hour Intensive Aluminium Free Deodorant 50mlWhy we love it: If you tend to need to re-apply your deodorant several times a day, try something more intense like Vichy's 24 Hour formula.
Save when you shop for aluminum free deodorants with these Boots discount codes.
Aluminum Free Deodorants: Best For A Fresh ScentMALIN + GOETZ Eucalyptus DeodorantWhy we love it: The cruelty-free and vegan formula takes its odour-dispelling abilities from citonellyl and refreshing eucalyptus oil to grant all-day protection, plus, it's a transparent gel for a mark-free finish.
Save when you shop for aluminium free deodorants with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best Subtle ScentNuxe Body Rêve De Thé 24-Hour Fresh-Feel Roll-On DeodorantWhy we love it: Want a roll-on but hate that wet feeling after application? Nuxe's deodorant is super fast drying.
Aluminum Free Deodorants: Most RefreshingMio Pit Proof Natural Deodorant - Refreshing Eucalyptus 70mlWhy we love it: Don't be fooled by this deodorant's cream design - it absorbs quickly and moisturises while doing so.
Save when you shop for aluminum free deodorants with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best For Sensitive SkinBionsen Dermoprotective 0% Aluminium Spray Deodorant 150mlWhy we love it: Specially formulated with Japanese Thermal Minerals to prevent unpleasant odours, Bionsen's Dermoprotective deodorant gently deodorises even the most sensitive skin.
Aluminum Free Deodorants: Vegan/Cruelty Free DeodorantPacifica Coconut Cream Clean DeodorantWhy we love it: This aluminium-free formula glides on clear, never sticky, and it'll outlast your longest days while leaving you smelling like fresh coconut milk with a hint of vanilla.
Save when you shop for aluminium free deodorants with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best Unisex DeodorantThe Organic Pharmacy Deodorant Spray 50mlWhy we love it: Naturally effective, this formula utilises a combination of essential oils to combat both bacteria and odours. Clary sage, rosemary, tea tree, lavender and bergamot refresh and lightly scent the skin to create a revitalised feeling.
Body Spray Aluminum Free Deodorants: Best Citrus ScentWeleda Citrus Deodorant Spray 100mlWhy we love it: You've heard of Weleda for your skin, why not use the brand for your pits? It has that same vibrant and citrussy smell as Skin Food.
Paraben/Aluminium Free Deodorants: Natural IngredientsSukin Deodorant (125ml)Why we love it: Formulated with a tantalising scent of tangerine, mandarin, lavender and vanilla, plus an infusion of herbs, you'll be left smelling lush after using this deodorant.
Tea Tree Aluminum Free Deodorants: Best Deodorant CreamAurelia London Botanical Cream Deodorant 110gWhy we love it: Sure, you might have to wash your hands whenever you apply this aluminium free deodorant, but it's safe on your skin and kinder to the planet.
Save when you shop for aluminum free deodorants with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best For Coconut OilKopari Beauty Natural Aluminum Free Coconut DeodorantWhy we love it: Harnessing the very many benefits of coconut from milk to husk (no scrap is wasted) Kopari's deodorant is free from any problematic additives.
Save when you shop for aluminium free deodorants with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Aluminum Free Deodorants That Hydrate: Best For IrritationJASON Soothing Aloe Vera Deodorant Stick (71g)Why we love it: Free from parabens, alcohol and aluminum chlorohydrate, JASON's Aloe Vera Deodorant Stick features an all-natural range of ingredients that keep you cool, fresh and confident.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best Fragrance ChoicesMerci Handy Clean Deodorant 55g (Various Fragrance)Why we love it: Choose from Flower Power, Hello Sunshine and Namaste fragrances - they are all designed to disguise odour and sweat.
Aluminum Free Deodorants: Best For WinterForest Essentials Ayurvedic Formulation Natural Deodorant 50mlWhy we love it: Infused with an invigorating orange and cardamom scent, the fine mist of this deodorant is enriched with pure grain alcohol to help cleanse the skin while aloe vera works to add hydration and moisturise.
Aluminium Free Deodorants: Best For TravellingMario Badescu Deodorant 68gWhy we love it: Mario Badescu has over 50 years of experience under its belt, and this deodorant is testament to its know-how. Antioxidant-rich cucumber seed oil and ginger root oil help to cleanse the skin, while moisturising shea butter and rice bran wax soften it.
Save when you shop for aluminium free deodorants with these ASOS discount codes.
Aluminum Free Deodorants For Men And WomenBaxter of California Aluminium and Alcohol Free DeodorantWhy we love it: With a long-lasting freshness that doesn't compromise on the ingredients, this aluminium and alcohol free deodorant detoxifies and nourishes your skin. The bestselling formula has a skin-friendly, lightweight texture that eradicates odour-causing bacteria, leaving a subtle, herbal scent in its stead.
What happens when you stop using deodorant with aluminum?
Most people are put off the idea of switching to an aluminium salts free deodorant because, if/when they've tried it before they've found they sweat and smell much quicker than usual. This is completely normal. Your body will go through what's called the ‘detox’ phase, which is when your previously blocked pores and sweat glands will release all the bacteria and toxins (which is what causes body odour/body odor) and moisture that they were harbouring before.
This phase varies depending on the person and skin type - if all you've ever used is antiperspirant, you might find it takes months rather than weeks to ‘acclimatise’. You may have to keep your deodorant on you for top-ups throughout the day, but it'll be worth it. After a while you'll start to notice you don't smell anymore, your armpits just might be more slippery than before.
Is deodorant better with or without aluminum?
It's of course up to your personal preference, but humans are meant to sweat - it's a totally natural occurrence whether you've just climbed Mount Everest or you're simply sat at your desk. That said, if you sweat profusely, you may find an antiperspirant is your only option which is absolutely fine, too. No judgements here, use what works for you.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
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