A journalist tested 18 natural deodorants over two weeks each to determine which products effectively manage odour without aluminium. Luna Daily All Over deodorant emerged as the top overall choice, praised for its lightweight, quick-drying formula and pleasant scent.
How the testing worked
Each deodorant was worn for at least two weeks through commuting, exercise, and everyday life. The tester evaluated application ease, drying time, scent longevity, and whether reapplication was needed. A second opinion was occasionally sought to avoid nose-blindness. The adjustment period for switching from antiperspirants was also considered, with initial products retested after several weeks of natural deodorant use.
Best natural deodorant overall: Luna Daily the All Over deodorant
Luna Daily the All Over deodorant, priced from £10.50 at Boots, was the most frequently reached-for product. As an all-body roll-on, it applies softly and dries quickly. The jasmine and ylang ylang scent is warm and lightly floral, while hydrating soft cotton offers a clean, subtle option. The formula proved gentle on skin with minimal adjustment period. However, it may leave marks on clothing and requires occasional reapplication on busy days.
Budget-friendly refillable: Wild
Wild refillable natural deodorant, from £13 at Boots, offers a solid stick format with a reusable aluminium case. It features a wide range of scents, including coconut and vanilla, and a sensitive range for those prone to irritation. The stick glides on smoothly and dries quickly. It may leave temporary white marks and requires reapplication during the day. Refills cost £6.50, or £5.20 with subscription.
Long-lasting option: AKT the deodorant balm
AKT the deodorant balm, from £21, comes in a toothpaste-style tube and is applied by hand. The thick paste absorbs quickly to a powdery finish. It performed well on longer or busier days and caused no irritation. Application requires hand-washing after use, and reapplication on the go can be messy. A tube lasts up to two months, costing approximately £10.50 per month.
Simple refillable: UpCircle
UpCircle refillable natural deodorant, from £13.59 at Bodykind, uses a solid wax-based stick with a straightforward refill system. It applies smoothly and dries quickly, feeling lightweight. However, it needed top-ups most days, typically wearing off by mid-afternoon. The stick can soften in heat. Refills cost £6.99 each, or £14.38 for three on subscription.
Sensitive skin choice: Fussy
Fussy refillable natural deodorant, from £9.60 at Holland & Barrett, offers a solid stick with a reusable case. It glides on easily and dries to a powdery finish. Both regular and sensitive formulas are available. The deodorant may mark clothes when sweating and requires frequent reapplication. Refills come in packs of three for £18, or £15 on subscription.
Everyday roll-on: Green People
Green People natural deodorant, from £11.99 at Express Chemist, is a liquid roll-on in recycled plastic packaging. It is reliable for normal working days but takes longer to dry. Using less product improves performance. It does not mark clothes if applied sparingly and allowed to dry. The bottle is recyclable but not refillable.
Best scent: Norfolk Natural Living
Norfolk Natural Living natural deodorant, £14.50, is a refillable liquid roll-on with standout fragrances like coastal walks and wild fig and gardenia. It is comfortable on the skin but takes time to dry and may mark clothes if rushed. It is better suited for lighter days and may not hold up during exercise.
Other notable products
Neal's Yard Remedies offers a lemon and coriander spray and a rose and geranium roll-on. The spray dries quickly but requires multiple reapplications. Nuud natural deodorant, from £12.95, is a cream that claims 72-hour effectiveness. It works well on quiet days but results can be unpredictable. Rollr refillable deodorant, from £45 for a starter pack, has a premium feel and pleasant scents but needed top-ups by the end of a normal day.
