Ingredients

Learn about the ingredients in deodorant sprays and what each component does. Understand what's in your antiperspirant.

Ingredients in Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Understanding what's in your deodorant can help you make informed choices about the products you use daily.

Common Deodorant Ingredients

Fragrances

Fragrances mask body odor. They can be synthetic or derived from natural essential oils. People with sensitive skin may prefer fragrance-free options.

Antimicrobial Agents

These ingredients kill or inhibit the bacteria that cause body odor when they break down sweat. Common examples include triclosan and alcohol.

Alcohol

Alcohol helps the product dry quickly and has antibacterial properties. However, it can be drying and irritating to sensitive skin.

Propellants (in sprays)

Spray deodorants use propellants like butane, isobutane, or propane to deliver the product as a fine mist.

Antiperspirant Ingredients

Aluminum Salts

The active ingredient in antiperspirants. Common forms include:

  • Aluminum chlorohydrate: Most common, effective and gentle
  • Aluminum zirconium: Often used in clinical strength products
  • Aluminum chloride: Very effective but can be irritating

These compounds form temporary plugs in sweat glands to reduce perspiration.

Natural Ingredients

Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

Neutralizes odor-causing acids. Effective but can irritate sensitive skin.

Coconut Oil

Antimicrobial properties and moisturizing benefits. Common in natural deodorants.

Arrowroot Powder

Absorbs moisture without irritating skin. Often used as an alternative to baking soda.

Essential Oils

Provide natural fragrance and some have antimicrobial properties:

  • Tea tree oil
  • Lavender
  • Eucalyptus
  • Peppermint

Zinc Oxide

Antibacterial properties that help control odor-causing bacteria.

Ingredients to Consider Avoiding

Parabens

Preservatives that some people avoid due to potential hormonal concerns.

Phthalates

Sometimes found in fragrances; some prefer to avoid these chemicals.

Artificial Dyes

Can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Reading Labels

When shopping for deodorants, the ingredients are listed in order of concentration, with the highest amounts first. Look for products that list ingredients you're comfortable with and avoid those that have caused you issues in the past.