The vast majority of deodorants out there are formulated with irritating, unhealthy synthetic chemicals. That’s why it’s important to look for safe, naturally-derived ingredients - e.g. ingredients sourced from plants, trees, fruits and flowers or inert material like clay. Even if the deodorant label says “natural”, check to see what the % natural is and aim for as close to 100% naturally-derived as possible. If the company doesn’t list the % natural on their label, ask why.

This one seems like a no-brainer, but it’s important to look for proven natural ingredients that eliminate and neutralize odor, like hops, kaolin clay, eucalyptus and saccharomyces ferment. If the all-natural deodorant you’re considering doesn’t have at least a few of these ingredients, it’s probably not going to get the job done.

Aluminum is found in a lot of antiperspirants because it physically blocks sweat glands, but that also means it interferes with the body’s natural cooling process (and the body often compensates by sweating elsewhere - e.g your hands, forehead or feet). Worse, studies have shown that aluminum may cause DNA mutations and tumor cells. Aluminum has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. To us, it’s just not worth the risk, which is why our Hoppin’ Fresh and Base Layer are both 100% aluminum-free deodorants.

As noted above, most deodorants on the shelf contain unhealthy synthetic ingredients - many of which are proven toxins. These toxins can interfere with hormones like estrogen and testosterone, promote the growth of cancer cells in women and men, and may impair fertility or affect fetal development. We’re proud to say that here at Ursa Major we formulate 100% toxin-free deodorants, so you’ll never find us using parabens, phthalates, sulfates, petrochemicals, or any other suspect ingredients.

All-natural deodorants should do more than block odor and keep you free from toxins. They should also work to actively nourish, soothe and heal your skin. Ingredients like aloe and shea butter (which contains vitamin E and carotene) moisturize and regenerate your skin to keep your underarms soft, smooth and irritation-free.

Contrary to popular belief, the unsightly stains you find after using many deodorants - synthetic or natural - even after washing your clothes, are not usually from sweating, but from aluminum or other ingredients found in the deodorant itself.  However, there are only a handful of all-natural deodorants on the market (very few actually!) that won’t stain your shirts. We’re happy to say that both of our Ursa Major deodorants are non-staining.

A high-quality natural deodorant should go on smooth and silky and have great glide - whether your armpits are still moist from showering or totally dry. It should also last a long time - a stick should last at least 2-3 months if not longer. Many natural deodorants are sticky and gunk up your armpits with residue, leaving you wondering if you’ve over-applied - and many last less than 30-45 days, especially if you have to reapply frequently.

In 2018, finding the best natural deodorant is something a lot of folks are trying to solve for. As you can imagine, there’s a lot of information out there comparing different all-natural deodorants, and it can be overwhelming. To narrow your search, try using specific search terms like Ursa Major Deodorant vs Native Deodorant or Ursa Major Deodorant vs Kopari Deodorant to compare natural deodorants you’re interested in.

You’ve probably done this already, but it’s on the list just in case. Check out what natural skin and body care experts are saying about the deodorants on your short list. Hoppin’ Fresh and Base Layer have been reviewed favorably by dozens of journalists (male and female) from outlets like the Wall Street Journal, Vogue, Well + Good, Gear Patrol and many others. Also be sure to check out online customer reviews to get real feedback from actual paying customers.

Many natural deodorants still contain baking soda, which can act as an irritant to folks with extra sensitive skin (about 1 in 10 people). Look for baking soda-free versions of best-selling natural deodorants like our Base Layer Deodorant or Sublime Sage Spray Deodorant. It’s unscented, has no baking soda and it contains aloe and Matricaria (German chamomile) to soothe extra-sensitive skin.

Different natural deodorants work for different body chemistries, so you might need to try several natural deodorants ‘til you find one you’re happy with. Be persistent and remember to give it two to three weeks as you transition to a new all-natural deodorant before reaching a verdict. The good news is that there are some great options out there. Good luck with your search!

At Ursa Major, our deodorants are 100% naturally-derived, cruelty-free, and gluten-free. If you want to give ours a shot, use code GONATURAL for $5 off your first order. We offer free US standard shipping, a 30-day Love It Guarantee and 3 free deluxe-size samples of our other award-winning natural face and body care products with every order.

(Offer valid for new customers only; limit one per customer. Can't be combined with other offers.)