In this post, we’re taking a deep dive into the ingredients that make natural deodorants effective. We’ll look at Native Deodorant, Schmidt's Deodorant, and our very own Stainky's Pit Prep, breaking down the pros and cons of each formulation.

All three companies are less than 10 years old, offering fresh perspectives and strong commitments ingredient quality. Despite their different formulations – a cream, a stick, and a spray – they all share key active ingredients.

Great companies offering great natural deodorants. So how do we choose the best one? Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

• Native Deodorant, Coconut & Vanilla

  • Native Ingredients

  • Native Review

• Schmidt's Deodorant, Lavender & Sage

  • Schmidt's Ingredients

  • Schmidt's Review

• Stainky’s Pit Prep, Fragrance-Free

  • Stainky’s Ingredients

  • Stainky’s Review

• Overall Findings

• Conclusion

Native Deodorant, Coconut & Vanilla

Price: $13

Size: 2.65 oz / 75g

Price per Ounce: $4.91

Native Ingredients:

• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
• Tapioca Starch
• Ozokerite
• Baking Soda
• Magnesium Hydroxide
• Coconut Oil
• Shea Butter
• Emulsifying Wax
• Dextrose
• Probiotics
• Fragrance

Native Review

Native's deodorant comes in a creamy stick form and is easy to apply. It's a popular choice for those looking for a natural alternative to traditional deodorants. The ingredients include a mix of natural oils, waxes, and baking soda, which help to neutralize odor and absorb moisture.

However, there are some drawbacks. Baking soda, a primary ingredient, can cause skin irritation for some people. Additionally, the use of synthetic fragrance, even though it’s labeled as “natural fragrance,” can be a concern for those with sensitive skin.

Schmidt's Deodorant, Lavender & Sage

Price: $10

Size: 2.65 oz / 75g

Price per Ounce: $3.77

Schmidt's Ingredients:

• Arrowroot Powder
• Baking Soda
• Coconut Oil
• Shea Butter
• Candelilla Wax
• Jojoba Seed Oil
• Vitamin E
• Lavender Essential Oil
• Sage Essential Oil

Schmidt's Review

Schmidt's deodorant is another strong contender in the natural deodorant market. Its formulation features arrowroot powder and baking soda for moisture absorption and odor control, with a blend of essential oils for scent.

The inclusion of baking soda can be a downside for those with sensitive skin, leading to potential irritation. However, the use of essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances is a significant plus for many consumers.

 

Stainky’s Pit Prep, Fragrance-Free

Price: $15

Size: 97ml/ 3.3 fl oz

Price per Ounce: $4.55

Stainky’s Ingredients:

• Organic Aloe Leaf Juice
• Glycerin
• Phenoxyethanol
• Organic Sugar Cane Extract
• Organic Bilberry Fruit Extract
• Organic Sugar Maple Extract
• Organic Orange Peel Extract
• Organic Lemon Peel Extract
• Organic Cranberry Fruit Extract
• Malic Acid
• Tartaric Acid
• Glycolic Acid
• Lactic Acid
• Citric Acid
• Organic White Willow Bark Extract
• Tea Tree Leaf Oil
• Polysorbate 20
• Organic Alcohol
• Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate

Stainky’s Review

Stainky’s Pit Prep is a spray-on formula meant to be used just after showering. It’s very light and dries within seconds. It can be used on its own as a fragrance-free deodorant or as an armpit primer to increase the effectiveness of other deodorants you already own.

Stainky’s includes more product in the bottle than either Native or Schmidt's, making it a better value at a lower cost per ounce. Water is not an ingredient in Stainky’s Pit Prep, which means you get a more concentrated product. The first ingredient is undiluted organic aloe leaf juice, which is soothing and moisturizing.

Over 80% of the ingredients in Pit Prep are organic and of the highest possible quality. The preservative used is phenoxyethanol, a synthetic version of a natural compound found in green tea and chicory, making it gentle and safe for skin.

Overall Findings

Three main takeaways from researching these products:

1. Common Ingredients: Aloe leaf juice and natural oils/butters are common across these deodorants, highlighting their importance in natural formulations. Aloe provides soothing properties, while oils and butters offer moisture and protection.
2. Fragrance Options: Native and Schmidt’s use fragrances and essential oils, which can cause irritation for some. Stainky’s offers a fragrance-free option, making it versatile for those who prefer no scent or want to layer with their favorite perfume or cologne.
3. Value for Money: Stainky’s Pit Prep provides more product for a lower price per ounce compared to the others, with a higher concentration of active ingredients and a greater percentage of organic content.

Conclusion

Natural deodorants are becoming more mainstream, offering effective alternatives to aluminum-based products. Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses, but Stainky’s Pit Prep stands out for its value, quality ingredients, and versatility.

What do you think? Observations we’re missing? Are there other natural deodorants we should review? Let us know in the comments.

Cheers!

Caitlin Stainken