The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Best Non-Toxic Deodorant in 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic deodorant on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
Find Non-Toxic Deodorant
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Magnesium Deodorant - Magsol
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.95
Product Details
- Designed for ultra-sensitive skin, free from aluminum and baking soda to prevent skin irritation.
- Features food-grade magnesium oxide for all-day odor protection by minimizing moisture buildup.
- Composed of only four natural ingredients: sweet almond oil, beeswax, magnesium oxide, and natural oils, ensuring a filler-free composition.
- Safe for a broad range of users including pregnant women, sweaty men, and teenagers.
- Business model supports women ownership and family-made production.
- Product made in the USA.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Long-lasting
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Staining
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Sweet Almond Oil, Beeswax, Magnesium Oxide, Natural Oils
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Sensitive Skin - Each & Every
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$20.00
Product Details
- Made with 6 clean ingredients and essential oils, suitable for sensitive skin and uses Dead Sea Salt instead of baking soda.
- Utilizes recyclable plant-based packaging made from sugarcane, which is a 100% renewable and carbon negative material.
- Free from harmful chemicals; no aluminum, synthetic fragrances, alcohol, parabens, baking soda, or phthalates.
- Certified vegan and cruelty-free, not tested on animals.
- Fragrance-free formula designed to be effective and long-lasting.
- EWG verified for non-toxicity.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Gentle
- Smooth
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tapioca Starch, Ozokerite, Magnesium Hydroxide, Piroctone Olamine, Magnesium Carbonate Hydroxide
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Fragrance & Aluminum Free Deodorant - Acure
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.99
Product Details
- Aluminum-free odor protection
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Easy to use and absorb
- Contains organic ingredients
- 100% vegan
- Certified cruelty-free
- Free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and formaldehyde
- NSF certified
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Gentle
- Unscented
Cons Mentioned
- Messy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Zea Mays (Corn Starch), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla Wax), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Sodium Bicarbonate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), *Organic Ingredient
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Deodorant Stick - nakd. Thai
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$7.19
Product Details
- Introduced as the original mineral salt deodorant 35 years ago, using only naturally-derived ingredients.
- Received the Clean Label Project Purity Award for all deodorant variants, ensuring no use of aluminum chloride, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances, or colors.
- Dermatologist tested to be hypoallergenic, gentle on skin, and quick-drying, without leaving streaks, white marks, or stains.
- Designed to allow the body to function naturally, controlling odors for up to 24 hours with natural minerals without blocking pores.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, committed to using the cleanest and safest ingredients, never tested on animals.
- Effective mineral odor protection that offers long-lasting natural mineral protection for up to 24 hours.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Effective
- Long-lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Fragile
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Potassium Allum (Mineral Salts)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Aluminum Free Deodorant - Truvani
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.99
Product Details
- Fragrance Free: Unscented and free of synthetic fragrances
- Aluminum Free: Does not contain aluminum
- Organic Ingredients: Made with USDA organic ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter
- All Day Protection: Provides long-lasting odor control
- Non-GMO: Made without genetically modified organisms
- Distinct from Antiperspirants: Does not prevent sweating but helps absorb it and neutralize odor
- No Harsh Chemicals: Free from parabens and uses natural ingredients like baking soda and organic tapioca starch for moisture absorption
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Refreshing
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Rosemary Extract, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Beeswax, Baking Soda, Organic Sunflower Seed Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Organic MCT Oil, Organic Tapioca Starch, Organic Arrowroot Powder
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
The Deodorant Gel - Necessaire
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$18.00
Product Details
- Formulated with 5% AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) to combat odor, treat discoloration, and minimize bumps.
- Contains niacinamide to strengthen skin’s natural barrier and chamomile extract to soothe skin.
- Hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and non-comedogenic.
- Fragrance-free, contains no aluminum or baking soda.
- Cruelty-free and certified vegan.
- Designed for daily use as part of a skincare ritual, with application under arms.
- Comes in a recyclable glass bottle.
- Certified B Corp, Climate Neutral, and Plastic Neutral.
- Member of 1% For The Planet, packaging is FSC-certified.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Unscented
- Gentle
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Mandelic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Gluconolactone, Lactic Acid, Panthenol, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Calcium Gluconate, Sodium Phytate, Benzoic Acid, Citric Acid
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Aluminum Free Natural Deodorant - Schmidt's
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$16.99
Product Details
- First Ecocert Certified Natural Deodorant in the US, offering 24 hour odor protection.
- Made with 100% natural origin fragrance, featuring a fresh, invigorating citrus scent from essential oils.
- Suitable for both women and men with over 13,000 5-Star reviews backing its effectiveness.
- Formulated with plant-based ingredients like magnesium and essential oils to be gentle on skin.
- Vegan certified by Vegan Action and cruelty-free certified by Leaping Bunny.
- Free from aluminum salts, artificial fragrance, filler ingredients, propylene glycol, phthalates, and parabens.
- Contains plant-based oils and butters such as coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, and shea moisture butter, enriched with vitamin E.
- Only requires 1-2 swipes for all-day protection and has a non-greasy, non-sticky formulation that absorbs easily.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Fragrant
- Long-lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Messy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Powder, Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E, Sunflower Derived)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Maverick Underarm Charm Cream Deodorant - Living Libations
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.00
Product Details
- Made with rich, masculine botanicals such as sandalwood, vetiver, and frankincense to neutralize odors and synthesize natural pheromones.
- Contains natural and organic ingredients like kaolin clay and baking soda to absorb odors and excess moisture.
- Includes cacao butter and arrowroot for a smooth application.
- Formulated without parabens, sulfates, or aluminum.
- Cruelty-free product not tested on animals.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Long-lasting
- Non-irritating
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Sodium Bicarbonate, Kaolinite, Theobroma Cacao (Cacao), Maranta Arundinacea (Arrow Root), Santalum Album (Sandalwood), Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense), Elettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom), Eriocephalus Punctulatus (Cape Chamomile), And Citrus Paradise (Grapefruit)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
All Natural Deodorant - BeNat
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$12.99
Product Details
- Now 40% bigger, offering more product in a new stylish, compostable, eco-friendly presentation.
- Formulated without aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and talc.
- Contains only plant-based ingredients and essential oils.
- Free from synthetic fragrance, BPAs, gluten, alcohol, GMO, sulfates, and propylene glycol.
- Plastic-free, eco-friendly, zero-waste, biodegradable, and compostable packaging.
- Provides 24-hour clinically proven odor protection.
- Designed to not clog pores, suitable for use during travel.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Eco-friendly
- Natural
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Crumbly
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Magnesium Carbonate, Vegetable Emulsifier, Cornstarch, Shea Butter, Candelilla Wax, Tea Tree Essential Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Deodorant w/ Activated Charcoal - Piper Wai
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$28.99
Product Details
- Formulated with clean ingredients that absorb moisture and provide long-lasting odor protection.
- Contains activated charcoal which is a highly absorbent substance that eliminates odors and moisture.
- Incorporates probiotics to support a healthy microbiome by promoting good bacteria and combatting bad bacteria.
- Designed for easy application, melting smoothly into the skin for effective and long-lasting odor control.
- Made with natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter to soothe and moisturize the skin, ideal for sensitive skin types.
- Free from aluminum, using only vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free components.
- Has a shelf life of 12 months from purchase and should be used within 6 months of opening, thanks to its natural preservative.
- Commitment to environmental protection, ensuring responsible sourcing and eco-friendly packaging.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Long-lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Tapioca Starch, Coconut Oil, Distilled Water, Shea Butter Virgin, Sodium Bicarbonate, Rosewater, Witch Hazel Usp, Cocoa Butter, D Alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Jojoba Oil, Honeysuckle Extract, Magnesium Hydroxide, Eucalyptus Radiata (Eucalyptus) Leaf/Stem Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Leaf Oil, Activated Charcoal, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil, Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
uni (sex) N°5 Natural Deodorant - Agent Nateur
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$24.00
Product Details
- All natural ingredients
- Aluminum-free
- Formula includes nourishing oil, butter, and beeswax
- Infused with aromatic lavandin and soothing eucalyptus
- Contains a blend of oils derived from sandalwood, cedarwood, rosa damascena, vetiver, and cistus
- Designed to prevent odor with a complex scent featuring earthy top notes
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
- Petrochemical-free
- Suitable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Highly concentrated formula that should not stain clothing if used properly
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Long-lasting
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Irritating
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Butter, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Butter, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, A Proprietary Blend Of Essential Oils
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Herbal Deodorant - Aesop
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$35.00
Product Details
- Aluminium-free deodorant utilizing a botanical formulation with Zinc Ricinoleate to manage body odor.
- Features a fresh, herbaceous, and camphorous aroma.
- Formulated with Sage Leaf, Zinc Ricinoleate, and Witch Hazel for their odor-absorbing properties.
- Directions for use: Spray under each arm post-cleansing and allow to dry. Reapply as necessary throughout the day.
- Cruelty-free: No testing on animals and contains no animal-derived ingredients, endorsing a vegan-friendly profile.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Scent
- Effective
- Non-irritating
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Alcohol Denat, Water (Aqua), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Polysorbate 80, Zinc Ricinoleate, Glycerin, Aminomethyl Propanol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Citric Acid, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil, Linalool, D-Limonene, Geraniol, Farnesol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Hoppin' Fresh Deodorant - Ursa Major
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$18.00
Product Details
- Eliminates underarm odor while absorbing excess moisture and soothing sensitive skin.
- Contains 25 naturally-derived ingredients including baking soda, kaolin clay, hops, and aloe vera.
- Free from aluminum, parabens, toxins, and is cruelty-free.
- Non-staining stick deodorant with a silky smooth texture and glide.
- Features a crisp, cool scent blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary essential oils.
- Lasts approximately 3-4 months with daily use.
- Expect a 2-3 week detox period when switching from conventional antiperspirant to this product.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Natural
- Fresh-scented
Cons Mentioned
- Irritating
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Propanediol, Sodium Stearate, Tapioca Starch, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Silica, Kaolin, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glycerin, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Bicarbonate, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Cellulose Gum, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Mentha Piperita Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Citrus Limon Peel Extract, Geranium Maculatum Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Panax Quinquefolium Root Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Limonene, Linalool
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Deodorant - Salt & Stone
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$20.00
Product Details
- Extra Strength Natural Deodorant for Women & Men
- Aluminum Free
- Includes seaweed extracts, shea butter & probiotics
- Free from parabens, sulfates & phthalates
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Pleasant
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Messy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tapioca Starch, Magnesium Hydroxide, Sodium Bicarbonate, Ozokerite, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Spirulina Platensis Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Lactobacillus Ferment, Tocopherol, Maltodextrin
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Deodorant
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Butylated Hydroxyanisole
3-tert-Butyl-4-hydroxyanisole is a component of the food preservative Butylated Hydroxyanisole, used where Butylated hydroxytoluene is restricted. It serves as an oxidation inhibitor for human consumption. Despite lacking human studies, animal tests reveal no mutagenic activity. Its mutagenicity was evaluated using Salmonella typhimurium and Chinese hamster fibroblast cell line, with chromosomal aberrations induced only in the presence of the S9 mix.
Butylated Hydroxytoluene
BHT, a toluene-based ingredient, serves as a preservative in food and personal care products. Safety assessments have noted toxic effects in lung tissue when BHT was applied to rats' skin but considered the low concentrations in cosmetics safe. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) suggests moderate evidence of BHT being a respiratory irritant in humans.
Phenoxyethanol
2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.
Talc
Talc, a naturally occurring mineral, is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products for its moisture-absorbing, smoothing, and anti-caking properties. It is also utilized in food products and animal feed. However, some talc may be contaminated with asbestos fibers, which are linked to cancer. This contamination occurs due to the proximity of talc deposits to asbestos mining sites. Health concerns associated with talc include irritation, cancer risks, and potential organ system toxicity.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.
Sources:
The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, 15 Toxic Trespassers, SKIP PRODUCTS MADE WITH SLES (AND SLS, TOO!), Campaign for Safe Costmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, WHAT IS SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, A new formula for a mild body cleanser: sodium laureth sulphate supplemented with sodium laureth carboxylate and lauryl glucoside,
Triclosan
Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.
Sources:
Triclosan Exposure, Transformation, and Human Health Effects, Are antibacterial products with triclosan fueling bacterial resistance?, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, The Effects of Triclosan on Puberty and Thyroid Hormones in Male Wistar Rats, Triclosan is a potent inhibitor of estradiol and estrone sulfonation in sheep placenta, The in Vitro estrogenic activities of triclosan and triclocarban, Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water, Environmental Exposure of Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota to Triclosan and Triclocarban, Triclosan: Environmental Fate and Effects, Chemical Profile: Triclosan / Triclocarban, 5 Things to Know About Triclosan, Underarm Harm? Whats So Bad About Antiperspirants?, Some flame retardants and the antimicrobials triclosan and triclocarban enhance the androgenic activity in vitro, Triclocarban Enhances Testosterone Action: A New Type of Endocrine Disruptor?, Triclosan, a commonly used bactericide found in human milk and in the aquatic environment in Sweden
About The Author