Sweat is a clever biological phenomenon, but one I thoroughly bemoan. We need to of course – it’s our internal air con that mitigates the effects of thermogenesis – but how ironic then, that the tingly prickle of a moustache composed entirely of moisture feels like the very trigger for spontaneous combustion.
The only thing more unpleasant than oozing water is an accompanying waft, which science suggests might be a form of communication in its own right. The majority of glands (eccrine) release only water, but a small minority (apocrine) produce a thicker, oilier sweat in select locations, including our pits. It’s the bacteria that feeds on this that causes odour, not the sweat itself, hence our eau de individuality.
Anyone who has been sardined into the intoxicating bubble of peak hour public transport in the sticky throes of summer might understand the strong support for anti-perspirant but natural deodorants are not to be sniffed at. They have become surprisingly sophisticated.
“You’re not trying to eliminate sweat, you’re just making sure it doesn’t make an introduction before you do,” says Corpus founder, Jean Pierre Mastey. “For me, it never made much sense to try to shut the sweating process down entirely. I’ve just always believed there’s a more thoughtful way to manage odour at its source than trying to stop your body from doing its job.”
To be good, natural deodorant must neutralise odour-causing compounds without causing irritation or smelling like a health food store. “Some of my favourite ingredients include magnesium hydroxide and zinc compounds, which help neutralise odour while remaining gentle on the skin,” says Gabriel Gomez, Founder of Noosa Basics. “We also like working with certain plant-derived ingredients and essential oils that can offer mild antimicrobial support while providing natural fragrance.”
The real gamechanger in this category is the use of probiotics for your pits. Corpus was an early adopter of saccharomyces ferment, and Noosa Basics have incorporated lactobacillus strains and fermented radish root to nix odour. “It works with the skin rather than against it. It doesn’t block sweat or rely on heavy antibacterial action. Instead, it helps bring balance to the underarm environment, which ultimately leads to better, more consistent odour control,” says Gabriel.
More polarising is alcohol (which can be drying in high doses) and bicarbonate soda. “Baking soda is a very effective odour neutraliser, and there’s a reason so many natural deodorants rely on it. It works,” says Jean Pierre. The only issue is that is alkaline and skin is slightly acidic in pH so skin can react. “It’s one of the most common reasons people have a negative experience with natural deodorants.”
Gabriel says you shouldn’t have to fight your body to achieve odour neutral, but it can take a little experimentation. “Because everyone’s microbiome is slightly different, some people may respond better to certain natural deodorant ingredients than others,” says Gabriel. “Body odour can also be influenced by diet, hydration, and gut health. When the body is balanced internally, many people find their natural body odour becomes milder as well.”
Ultimately, natural deodorant isn’t supposed to erase your individual scent completely so it depends if that’s something you want to embrace. “There’s something human about it. It’s part of how we read each other, even if we’re not aware of it,” he says. “You don’t need to smell like nothing. You just need to smell like someone who has their life together.”
“The industry has spent years convincing people that sweat is the problem, when really it’s just a normal biological function. You’re not broken, you’re just human.” – Jean Pierre Mastey, founder of Corpus.
Armpit detox
If slathering charcoal and clay masks on your pits feels good, don’t let us stop you, but plain old patience is all that under arms really require if you’re switching from anti-perspirant to deodorant.
“There’s a lot of language around a ‘detox period’ and while I wouldn’t frame it that way scientifically, there is absolutely an adjustment that can happen, especially if you’ve been using antiperspirant for years,” says Jean Pierre.
“You may notice more moisture or a temporary shift in odour as the underarm environment rebalances. For some people, there’s little to no transition. For others, it can take a few weeks. Your body does find its equilibrium, and once it does, the experience becomes much more consistent.”
If you notice any skin irritation don’t push through – it’s probably not the deo for you.
The aluminum salt debate continues… “There isn’t strong scientific evidence that aluminum in antiperspirants is harmful at typical use levels, and I think it’s important to be honest about that,” says Jean Pierre. That said, it was named 2022 allergen of the year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society. “Aluminum is not something the body has a biological use for. If you’re going to be selective about what you put on your body, it probably makes sense to start with the things that stay on the longest, not the ones you rinse off 30 seconds later.”
Best stick natural deodorants
Lust Minerals Clean Stick Natural Deodorant in Citrus Sorbet, $28, has a buttery glide and bicarb for odour control.
Necessaire The Deodorant, $36, has never let me down. Mandelic acid and zinc control bacteria. Smells bougie.
Phlur Vanilla Skin Deodorant, $33, glides on smoothly without feeling sticky and smells scrumptious.
Corpus N°Green (N° Vert) Natural Deodorant, $43, is bicarb free and contains ferments and natural minerals to control odour. Has a distinct floral-citrus scent.
Mario Badescu Cucumber and Sweet Mint, $23, is so light you barely feel it. No starches or bicarb so not designed to keep you dry.
Uni Skin Soothing Deodorant, $57, is like a paste in stick form so goes on quite thick. Love the unisex scent. Refillable.
Salt and Stone Santal & Vetiver Deodorant, $36, is on the dry side (you have to work it on!) but does a stellar job. Expect fragrance compliments!
Best paste natural deodorants
AKT Deodorant Balm, $44, has a cream-to-powder texture so not as thick as a regular paste. Five fragrance options (Tonka Bean smells lush).
Noosa Organic Deodorant Cream Orange Sweet & Lavender, $14.50, really works. This one has no bicarb and also comes in a stick.
Best roll on natural deodorants
To My Ships Stand Up Bravely Marjoram Roll-On Deodorant, $77, is pricey but the sandalwood scent can double as your fragrance.
Foodie Mint Lime Sorbet Roll on Deodorant, $14.95, is made with teens in mind. Light and refreshing.
Vanessa Megan Witch Hazel & Green Tea Roll-On Deodorant, $29.95, smells crips and clean and is much lower in bi-carb than most pastes (sensitive skin take note).
Best spray natural deodorants
Mukti Botanicals Botanique Deodorant, $36, contains witch hazel instead of alcohol.
Weleda Citrus Fresh Deodorant, $23.50. Zingy mood-boosting lime makes this a favourite summer midday refresh.
The article originally appeared in the June 2026 issue of The Australian Women’s Weekly. Subscribe so you never miss an issue.
