1. Kaia Naturals
This 99-percent natural black-coloured stick (which goes on clear) is charcoal-based and free of parabens, baking soda and propylene glycol. You’re meant to wear it for 30 consecutive days, allowing your body to adjust. Our dedicated tester said her body odour did eventually level out but stresses the deodorant works in “stages” so you may smell along the way.
What’s in it: Charcoal powder, aloe and milk of magnesia.
Takesumi Detox Charcoal Deodorant, $21, kaianaturals.
2. Leaves of Trees
This cream version comes in a convenient tube package for easy application, and our editor who uses it religiously says, “I swear my pits start to sweat less after a few days of use.”
What’s in it: Clay, lots of organic oils (like argan, peppermint and eucalyptus) and vitamin E.
Leaves of Trees Eucalyptus Mint Deodorant, $15.
3. Earth Science
For those with an adversion to not only natural-smelling products (we’re looking at you, patchouli and tea tree), but all scents, Earth Science’s unscented stick is for you.
What’s in it: Lichen extract is the secret to this deodorant’s odour-control.
Earth Science Liken Natural Deodorant, $9, Well.ca.
4. Nuxe
This sweetly-scented roll-on deodorant (it smells of coconut sorbet, white blossom and wild vanilla) is alcohol-free and won’t leave white marks on your clothing.
What’s in it: A paraben-free combination of white alum and silver powder that provides long-lasting protection.
Nuxe Body Deodorant, $15, Hudson’s Bay.
5. Dr. Hauschka
Our test-editor applied this low-alcohol, non-oily roll-on on normal days as well as before a workout and yoga session, and she said it kept her dry and fresh-smelling. Plus, she liked the mild tingling sensation from the mint.
What’s in it: Natural antimicrobials like sage and witch hazel essences.
Dr. Hauschka Sage Mint Deodorant, $28, Hudson’s Bay.
6. Saje
Not only does this spray-on eliminate odour, but it reduces wetness too. Our team’s devotee tried eight natural deodorants before finding this one — and she loves that it doesn’t leave yellow stains on her white tees.
What’s in it: Liquid mineral salts and a blend of essential oils, like patchouli and lavender.
Saje Exotic Crystal Fresh Deodorant, $13.
7. Routine
If you can get behind a cream application, then this Calgary-based brand run by two sisters has a formula (there are three: original, vegan and sensitive) and scent (there are 12) for you. We’re partial to Sweet Jane, which smells of vanilla and pear. Bonus: one jar will last you three to six months!
What’s in it: The clay and beeswax formula also contains coconut oil, baking soda, shea butter and vitamin E.
Routine Sweet Jane, $28.
8. Purelygreat
Another made-in-Canada selection, this citrus-scented cream is super fast-absorbing and mess-free. Here’s what our test-editor had to say: “I’ve heard that natural deodorants don’t stop you from sweating, but this one does a really great job at keeping it dry under there.”
What’s in it: Natural soda, non-GMO corn starch, organic vegetable glycerine and a combination of six essential oils.
Purelygreat Women’s Citrus, $15.
9. Rocky Mountain Soap Co.
Shake it up and roll it on: This tea tree–scented formula will keep you fresh for up to six hours (just make sure to let it dry before putting your shirt on, or you might feel a bit wet). The fresh scent is great for men and women alike.
What’s in it: Aloe vera leaf extract, olive waxes, tea tree leaf oil, peppermint leaf oil.
Rocky Mountain Soap Co. Tea Tree Deodorant, $9.
10. Lovefresh
Toronto-based Lovefresh creates both stick and cream deodorants. Our test-editor tried a stick in Lemon Verbena, and while she found she needed to reapply once throughout the day, she looked forward to it thanks to the fresh, but not overpowering, scent.
What’s in it: Fair trade shea butter, coconut oil, clay, baking soda, coconut-derived wax and essential oils.
Lovefresh Natural Cream Deodorant Stick, $24.
