From body washes to lotions to fragrances, there are a bunch of ways to craft a signature scent. But all of those things mean nothing if you don’t start with a good deodorant. Especially with the humidity that comes as we transition from summer to fall, keeping your underarms smelling fresh is an absolute must. And, if you are on the hunt for a new deodorant, a more natural alternative might be worth considering. Natural deodorants are formulated without any harsh chemicals or irritants to keep the skin under your arms feeling calm and smelling good. Contrary to the popular belief that aluminum-free options are less effective than standard antiperspirants, natural options are actually just as helpful at fending off unwanted odors. “Natural deodorants are often made of naturally-derived ingredients that are safe for external body parts,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. DiAnne Davis. “These ingredients are still effective at neutralizing the bacteria that can cause body odor to develop in certain parts of the body.”

 

As a self-identified fragrance enthusiast, I’ll be honest, I was skeptical at first. But with so many brands introducing natural deodorizers and friends switching to aluminum-free options, it was only right that I gave them a try. And luckily, I’ve been pleasantly surprised. Choosing a deodorant is a personal experience that varies based on specific needs and conditions, and finding the right one takes some trial and error. So, to make the journey a bit easier, we gathered a list of 12 of the best natural deodorants. See our selects below.