No Sweat: Nine Natural Deodorants Actually Worth the Switch

Clean beauty is no longer niche. Once shorthand for farmers market balms, Byron-based apothecaries and an affinity with Gwyneth Paltrow, it now sits firmly in the mainstream.

And it isn’t just a fad. According to industry forecasts, Australia’s natural beauty market is projected to almost triple in value by 2030 compared to 2023 – and antiperspirant is one personal-care product leading the way.

For years, the daily underarm swipe barely registered. A quick spritz or roll of antiperspirant meant getting through long workdays and gym sessions without having to worry about odour. But as interest in clean ingredients grows, aluminium – the active ingredient that prevents sweat – has become increasingly scrutinised.

What’s the difference between antiperspirant, deodorant and natural deodorant?

Antiperspirants work by using aluminium salts to form gel-like plugs in sweat ducts, reducing moisture. While no conclusive evidence has linked them to serious health conditions, research into long-term use continues – and for many, that’s reason enough to explore alternatives.

Deodorants take a different approach. Instead of blocking sweat, they neutralise odour-causing bacteria and absorb moisture. Natural deodorants go a step further, doing this with plant-based ingredients and “without aluminium, synthetic chemicals, phthalates, parabens or forever chemicals,” says Louise Hunt, co-founder of sustainable beauty label Papermoon. The focus, rather, is on “natural antibacterial and antiperspirant capabilities, such as coconut oil, tapioca starch and magnesium,” adds skin expert James Vivian.

Formulas have evolved considerably. What were once chalky, short-lived sticks are now elegant balms, lightweight gels and skincare-led formulas that hold their own through long days. Finding the right fit may take some trial and error. Hunt’s advice: “Stick with it – your body will love you for it.”

To make the transition a little easier, we’ve rounded up nine of the best natural deodorants to try, from local favourite Papermoon to cult staple Salt & Stone. 

Nine of the best natural deodorants to shop 

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