When it comes to choosing a deodorant, one of the key considerations for many people is whether the product is natural, and if it’s also aluminum-free.

As these deodorants are often manufactured by eco-conscious companies, the packaging is also typically sustainable. A popular choice of packaging is aluminum – so how can a deodorant be aluminum-free if it’s housed in aluminum?

We break down all you need to know about aluminum salts, deodorant and the packaging it’s kept in.

Understanding aluminum in antiperspirants

You might wonder why we’ve shifted the conversation to antiperspirants rather than deodorants. Technically speaking, all deodorant is aluminum-free – only antiperspirants contain aluminum compounds.

Antiperspirants often contain aluminum or aluminum salts like aluminum chlorohydrate as active ingredients to help prevent perspiration (sweating). The way in which this works is thought to be due to American Cancer Society states: ‘there are no strong epidemiologic studies (studies in people) that link breast cancer risk and antiperspirant use, and very little scientific evidence to support this claim.’

The concern around breast cancer is the belief that aluminum in antiperspirants increases the risk of developing breast cancer, due to absorption of aluminum salts through the skin.

Another reason why people choose to avoid aluminum in deodorants is due to skin irritation. Some people find that aluminum-based compounds can irritate sensitive skin, leaving the underarms feeling sore.

Going aluminum-free

When a deodorant is labelled as "aluminum-free," it specifically means that the formula does not contain any aluminum-based compounds. Instead, these products typically rely on other (often natural) ingredients to neutralize odor, without impacting sweat production.

Common alternatives include:

• Activated charcoal: Absorbs moisture and odors.
• Essential oils: Provide natural fragrance and some antibacterial properties.
• Zinc oxide: Offers odor protection by killing odor-causing bacteria.
• Baking soda: A natural odor neutralizer.*

*Note that our deodorant is free from baking soda, as it can be an irritant. Instead, we use zinc oxide. It’s a natural mineral that not only soothes and protects the skin, but also has antibacterial properties. This makes it effective in both preventing skin irritation and reducing odor.

Aluminum-free deodorants are popular among consumers looking for a more natural approach to personal care or those who have sensitive skin that reacts to aluminum compounds.

What about the aluminum case?

We understand the confusion about how a product can be aluminum-free if it’s kept in an aluminum case. However, aluminum-free specifically refers to the absence of aluminum-based compounds in the deodorant's formula.

These compounds are often used in antiperspirants to block sweat glands, but are not present in "aluminum-free" products due to various concerns, the most prominent being the impact of aluminum salts on health.

The packaging material, in this case, aluminum, does not impact the deodorant’s ingredients. This means that a deodorant can be housed in an aluminum container while still being free of aluminum in its formulation, which can be potentially irritating to those with sensitive skin.

That’s exactly what we’ve done with our Aluminum-Free Deodorant at UpCircle.

Why opt for an aluminum case?

Aluminum cases are favoured by eco-friendly brands for several reasons:

• Durability: Aluminum is a strong material that effectively protects the deodorant from damage.
• Recyclability: Aluminum is highly recyclable, making it an eco-friendly packaging option.

These attributes can make aluminum the perfect choice for packaging, especially among brands that emphasise sustainability and premium quality.

For those who are mindful of both their health and the environment, an aluminum-free deodorant in an aluminum case can offer the best of both worlds: a product that avoids potentially controversial ingredients that is packaged in a material that is both durable and recyclable.

Our natural and aluminum-free deodorant

First and foremost, our deodorant is completely aluminum-free in its formulation, meaning it is not an antiperspirant. However, although not sweat-blocking, our deodorant contains corn starch, making it moisture-absorbing. This means that while it does not prevent you from sweating because it’s aluminum-free, it will help minimise moisture and keep you dry for longer.

We’ve covered in detail about why you should switch to an aluminum-free deodorant rather than an antiperspirant, and why natural deodorant takes a few weeks to work.

Formulated with upcycled prickly pear extract derived from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, our deodorant is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and hydration properties, helping to soothe and nourish the skin.

Working to reduce irritation and redness, the extract is ideal for use on delicate underarm skin that can often become irritated by shaving. If you choose to shave your underarms, follow our step-by-step shaving routine.

Prickly pear extract works to fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. The extract contains a high concentration of vitamins E and K, as well as polyphenols, which help to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from both oxidative stress and environmental damage.

The deodorant is formulated with macadamia oil which provides deep nourishment and intense hydration for the skin. With delicate citrus notes, our "Fresh Citrus" scent brings refreshing notes of bergamot and lime.

We’ve answered all of our most frequently asked questions about our deodorant in a blog post so the most important questions are in one place.

Some people are reluctant to swap deodorants, thinking that sticking with the same type is the best option. However, if you’re passionate about living sustainably, an aluminum-free deodorant in an aluminum case is the way to go. That is, once you’ve finished whatever you’re currently using – no wastage here!

Discover the full collection of our vegan, natural products at UpCircle.