16 Deodorant Alternatives That Actually Work
Ever wondered what you can use instead of deodorant? You’re not alone. Many people want to avoid using harsh chemicals but still sweat excessively — and they’re not finding the solutions they’re seeking in the deodorant aisle.
Luckily, deodorant and antiperspirant aren’t the only solutions for fighting underarm sweat and odor. In this article, we’ll look at the best deodorant substitutes that don’t rely on harsh chemicals.
12 Deodorant Alternatives and Natural Remedies
Check out these deodorant alternatives if you’re concerned about your health or the environmental effects of store-bought deodorants and antiperspirants.
1. SWEAT PROOF UNDERSHIRT
Unlike regular undershirts or clunky sweat pads, Thompson Tee’s patented Hydro-Shield® technology traps underarm sweat and evaporates it as vapor — so your outer shirt stays completely dry. Available for men and women, it’s a discreet, breathable solution for managing sweat, whether you’re at work, on stage, or in the spotlight.
Customers call it life-changing — not just for blocking sweat stains but for boosting confidence in high-pressure moments. It also protects your wardrobe by preventing sweat damage and feels surprisingly cool, thanks to its vapor-release design. With different fits and necklines to choose from, it’s versatile enough to wear under anything, from casual tees to formal wear.
2. ANTI-ODOR SHIRTS
If odor is your main concern, Thompson Tee’s anti-odor shirts for men offer a powerful, natural solution. Engineered to eliminate 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria, these shirts keep you feeling fresh and confident all day without relying on harsh chemicals.
While they aren’t designed to stop sweat, they do help minimize the impact of sweat by neutralizing odor before it starts. Perfect for work, travel, or everyday wear, these tees are a stylish, versatile upgrade for anyone tired of battling B.O.
Read more: 9 Ways to Get Rid of Body Odor Naturally
3. ALL-NATURAL DEODORANTS
First, check the label on your current natural deodorant. Is it 100% all-natural? Some so-called "healthy" deodorants still contain chemicals, so always read the label carefully before purchasing.
4. BAKING SODA AND CORNSTARCH
Baking soda expertly masks almost any funky smell — including body odor. You can make this cheap deodorant alternative in your kitchen with a couple of basic ingredients.
Mix one-eighth of a teaspoon of baking soda with a small amount of water, and rub it into your underarms. Don’t dissolve the baking soda — only add enough water to create a paste.
You can also add a little cornstarch to help combat wetness. Mix six parts cornstarch with one part baking soda and smooth it on your armpits.
5. LEMON JUICE
Applying lemon juice to your underarms is a simple way to stay smelling fresh. Lemon juice is packed with citric acid, which kills odor-causing bacteria. But remember that lemons are highly acidic, so be careful when applying lemon juice to your armpits after shaving (yes, it will sting!).
6. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Did you know apple cider vinegar is a natural alternative to deodorant? It’s naturally pH-restoring, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of water, then apply to your underarms with a cotton ball or pad.
7. RUBBING ALCOHOL
Rubbing alcohol also kills odor-causing bacteria. And the best part? You probably have some sitting in your medicine cabinet. Fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and spritz it in your armpits, or dab some on a cotton ball and apply.
8. ESSENTIAL OILS
If you’re worried about smelling like rubbing alcohol or baking soda, essential oils can help. Certain essential oils like lemongrass, lavender, thyme and rosemary have antibacterial properties. Mix a few of your favorite oils together to create your perfect scent, then dab on your pits with a cotton ball.
9. COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil is antibacterial and antiviral, which can reduce or eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
Since coconut oil has a low melting temperature (80F), it can easily cause greasy stains on your clothes. Follow this recipe for a coconut oil deodorant that stays intact through the day:
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup baking soda
- ¼ cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- Coconut oil
Combine cornstarch and baking soda in a bowl and mix. Add coconut oil gradually until it becomes a thick paste. DIY coconut can last for up to two years in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for best results – and extra-cool pits!
10. SHEA BUTTER
For an extra-moisturizing deodorant, try this shea butter treatment:
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons shea butter
- 3 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons cocoa butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- Essential oil for fragrance (optional)
Combine and melt all ingredients (except the oils) in a saucepan over low heat and stir. Add the Vitamin E oil and essential oil of your choice. Pour into a container and place in the fridge to cool and set. Keep refrigerated between uses.
Check out: How to Make Deodorant at Home [All-Natural Recipes]
11. WITCH HAZEL
Witch hazel is a natural astringent and anti-inflammatory agent. In addition, the solution kills bacteria and removes excess moisture from the skin, making it an ideal substitute for deodorant.
Witch hazel is a popular deodorant alternative because it doesn’t leave residue on the skin and zaps odor fast. However, you'll need to reapply it throughout the day because it wears off quickly.
Read more: How to Stop Sweating Naturally: 16 Remedies + Tips
12. UNDERARM BOTOX
Botulinum toxin (Botox) can treat the symptoms of severe underarm sweating. Botox works by blocking the secretion of the chemical that activates your sweat ducts.
Botox injections are relatively quick and painless for most people; however, Botox for hyperhidrosis is considered an invasive treatment with potentially serious side effects. If you experience excessive underarm sweating, speak to a dermatologist about less invasive solutions first.
13. HAND SANITIZER
Need deodorant in a pinch? If hand sanitizer is handy, squirt a small amount into your palm and apply it to each armpit to kill the stink. Bonus: Hand sanitizer dries fast, so you won’t have to wait long to get on with your day.
14. MILK OF MAGNESIA
It may sound unconventional, but milk of magnesia (yes, the digestive aid) is a surprisingly effective natural deodorant. Its active ingredient, magnesium hydroxide, neutralizes odor-causing bacteria by creating an alkaline environment on the skin — without disrupting your body’s natural pH or relying on harsh chemicals.
This aluminum-free option is gentle on sensitive skin, less irritating than baking soda, and incredibly affordable. Just dab a small amount under your arms and let it dry before dressing.
15. SALT-BASED DEODORANTS
Made from Himalayan salt or potassium alum, salt-based deodorants offer a natural way to neutralize odor without blocking sweat. Salt’s antibacterial properties help prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria, while Himalayan salt is completely aluminum-free.
While they won’t stop sweating, they can absorb some moisture and leave a dry finish. Application can be a bit clunky, and those with sensitive skin should patch test first.
16. GLYCOLIC ACID
Best known for its skincare benefits, glycolic acid is now being used as a natural deodorant — and dermatologists are backing the trend. By lowering the skin’s pH, glycolic acid creates an environment where odor-causing bacteria struggle to survive.
It also exfoliates dead skin cells, which helps prevent bacterial buildup and promotes smoother, brighter underarms. Just be cautious with the concentration — stick to 3–5% to avoid irritation, and know that results may fade over time as sweat dilutes the acid.
Why Choose Deodorant Alternatives?
There are several good reasons you might decide to ditch traditional deodorants and antiperspirants in favor of something more natural.
YOU WANT TO STAY AWAY FROM CHEMICALS
Deodorants and antiperspirants contain controversial toxins, including aluminum, parabens, phthalates and triclosan. If you prefer not to put harsh chemicals on your body, you can find peace of mind with a deodorant alternative.
YOU HAVE AXILLARY HYPERHIDROSIS
When you have axillary hyperhidrosis or excessive underarm sweating, regular deodorant just doesn’t cut it. If you feel like you’ve tried every deodorant and antiperspirant on the shelf, it may be time to experiment with alternatives.
YOU HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN
Certain ingredients like alcohol, aluminum and baking soda can irritate sensitive skin. Many deodorant substitutes are derived from gentle ingredients that can help keep irritation at bay.
YOU’RE TIRED OF PIT STAINS
Daily application of deodorant or antiperspirant can cause pit stains and leave unwanted residue on your clothing. If you're tired of cleaning pit stains or throwing away shirts, you may want to ditch the deodorant or antiperspirant altogether and opt for deodorant alternatives.
The Best Deodorant Substitute: Thompson Tee
Natural deodorant alternatives can go a long way in reducing odor and sweat — but let’s face it, most need frequent reapplication and don’t offer all-day protection.
That’s where Thompson Tee's sweat proof undesrhits come in.
With built-in sweat-blocking technology, our patented undershirts deliver all-day dryness and confidence — no reapplying, no pit stains and no harsh chemicals. Just breathable comfort and peace of mind, whether you’re heading to work, hitting the stage, or navigating everyday life.
Don’t settle for “kind of works.” Get real protection that lasts.
Try a Thompson Tee risk-free and feel the difference for yourself.
