So let’s just get this off our chests (and out from under our armpits…): sweating, as much as we might hate it, is a natural and extremely healthy process. Actually, sweating or perspiring is how our body regulates its internal temperature and without doing it, our body can’t cool itself, which can lead to overheating and possibly heatstroke…not too pleasant a thought.

But sweat is stinky, right? Interestingly enough, sweat itself doesn’t actually smell. When our skin’s natural microbes mingle with the sweat and feed off of fat and proteins (secreted from our apocrine—or sweat—glands), that’s when we can be left with that not-too-pleasant smell.

In come the antiperspirants.

When we apply an antiperspirant, yes, we will likely be walking around smelling lovely. But the flaw with it is right there in the name of the product: an ANTI-perspirant blocks sweat glands and stops the excretion of perspiration. And while this prevents the stink factor, it also prevents our bodies from cooling down which—even aside from all the stuff that you hear about aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants causing cancer—can’t be very good.

Enter deodorants.

Deodorants use antibacterial ingredients to create an environment where those stink-causing microbes can’t feed, won’t thrive, and hence won’t cause odors, allowing the body to function how it should while keeping us fresh smelling.

But not all deodorants are created equal. Only the natural ones are free of harsh ingredients, like parabens, propylene glycol and phthalates. Natural deodorants use non-toxic ingredients like essential oils, baking soda, and magnesium to keep us smelling lovely. Many also contain moisture-absorbing ingredients, like natural powders and clays, which can help absorb some of the sweat and keep you dry without blocking the glands.

But do natural deodorants actually work?

You may have tried natural deodorants before and not been too impressed (or heard stories along those lines) …but wait! Things have seriously changed, and natural deodorants have come a long way in the last few years—in fact, amazing new formulations are coming out all the time! To prove it, here are our top 5 women’s and top 5 men’s deodorants from the site, each one a tried-and-true customer favourite:

Top 5 women’s natural deodorants:

#1 PiperWai Activated Charcoal Deodorant

A powerful, aluminum-free deodorant that absorbs wetness and combats odor (activated charcoal absorbs 1000 times its own weight in moisture). 100% Natural ingredients like organic coconut oil, shea butter, and pure vitamin E soothe the most sensitive skin (even after shaving!) and form an invisible, absorbent, pH-balanced shield on your underarms to neutralize odor. This stain-free formula rubs in clear and won’t discolor your clothes. Now also available in a stick!

#2 Schmidt’s Deodorant in Bergamot & Lime

With its bright citrus scent, this natural deodorant is a true pleasure to wear. It contains essential oils that lend additional disinfectant and skin healing benefits while its all-natural ingredients effectively neutralize odor and help absorb wetness. This natural deodorant feels great on your skin and smells absolutely amazing. And it’s also available in a cream formulation.

#3 Routine De-Odor-Cream Natural Deodorant in “Sweet Jane” Scent

A natural clay and beeswax formula that has the sweet and warm scent of vanilla with a hint of pear. This effective, natural deodorant is suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women as it’s scented with flavour oils (delicious, edible, natural and organic) instead of essential oils.

#4 Agent Nateur holi(stick) No. 3 Deodorant

Keeps you smelling lovely well into the evening hours with a light trace of honey, lavender and eucalyptus. Each holi(stick) is made by hand, and a little goes a long way. Safe for those with even the most sensitive skin, this deodorant is non-GMO, pesticide-free and made from food-grade ingredients.

#5 Meow-Meow-Tweet Baking Soda-Free Deodorant Cream

Made the switch to natural deodorant but struggle with underarm sensitivity from baking soda? This new formula uses dietary magnesium and arrowroot powder to help control moisture and odour. Nourishing plant oils and butters soothe and condition the skin, and a potent blend of essential oils keeps you smelling fresh throughout the day.

Top 5 men’s natural deodorants:

#1 Herban Cowboy Dusk Deodorant

Achieve long-lasting protection without dyes or harsh synthetics with this sultry ‘dusk’ scent. This effective natural deodorant is free of propylene glycol, aluminum, and triclosan.

#2 Toms of Maine Men’s Long Lasting Wide Stick Deodorant

This deodorant has the power to be tough on odor and is clinically proven to provide 24-hour protection. Aluminum-free and propylene glycol-free, it contains botanical hops to avoid odors and zinc ricinoleate to absorb them, so you’ll feel your best all day.

#3 Weleda Sage 12-Hour Deodorant Spray

This pick refreshes the skin while eliminating unwanted bacteria. The herbal fragrance of organic sage extract along with essential oils of lavender, rosemary and thyme create a long-lasting deodorizer. Free of antiperspirants such as aluminum salts.

#4 Rocky Mountain Soap Company Mens Stuff Natural Deodorant

This natural deodorant is made using potassium alum, a naturally occurring salt that doesn’t clog your pores or pass into your bloodstream. It’s also 100% toxin-free which keeps your pits fresh and your body clean.

#5 Kiss My Face Natural Man Deo All Day Protection

Natural, effective, cruelty-free deodorant that will keep you protected all day or all night. It goes on smooth and clear and smells great.