Do You Know What's In Your Deodorant?

Interest in natural deodorants has risen sky high in recent years, with many people swapping their traditional antiperspirants for alternatives that let the body’s detoxification system function as they should. 

Many conventional deodorants contain aluminium compounds, such as aluminium chlorohydrate or aluminium zirconium, which work by blocking sweat glands to reduce perspiration. However, sweating is a natural and essential detoxification process that helps the body eliminate toxins. Preventing this function can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature and flush out harmful substances. Additionally, research has raised concerns about aluminium’s potential link to hormonal disruption and its accumulation in breast tissue, though definitive conclusions are still debated. Mainstream deodorants also often contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, and phthalates—chemicals that can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body’s natural hormone balance. Some formulations include triclosan, an antimicrobial agent that may contribute to antibiotic resistance and disrupt the gut microbiome. With daily use, these ingredients are absorbed through the skin, leading many health-conscious individuals to seek out natural alternatives that support, rather than suppress, the body's natural detox pathways.

Among them, Wild Deodorant has gained a strong following, offering a top-performing, aluminium-free, vegan, and cruelty-free formula packaged in a refillable case to minimise waste and the problem of disposable cosmetics packaging. It aims to solve this issue with compostable refills.

I made the switch to Wild because I wanted something that worked without synthetic chemicals and, frankly, because I was tired of throwing away those plastic deodorant tubes, too. Now, it’s a regular part of my routine, and one I see continuing for a long time into the future. I apply it first thing after a shower, and it keeps me feeling fresh all day and into the evening. But how does it compare to standard deodorants on the market? And is it the right fit for everyone?

Wild is not an antiperspirant, that’s an important distinction to make, first and foremost. The key to understanding this is that antiperspirants work by using aluminium salts to block sweat glands, physically stopping moisture from reaching the surface of the skin. Wild, on the other hand, takes a different approach, using tapioca starch to absorb excess moisture without interfering with the body's natural sweating process.

It’s also worth understanding this: sweat itself doesn’t smell. Body odour only happens when sweat interacts with bacteria on the skin. So, Wild tackles this by including natural antibacterial agents that neutralise odour before it manifests.

Beyond its effective formula, Wild has another obvious appeal: sustainability. The case is made from durable aluminium, and it's designed to be refilled rather than replaced. Meanwhile, the refills are equally as impressive, being 100% plastic-free and compostable. Personally, I think it looks sleek and minimalist, it’s the kind of thing that doesn’t clutter up the bathroom shelf or create an eyesore.

For those conscious of ethical choices beyond environmental factors, Wild is entirely vegan and cruelty-free. That means, no animal-derived ingredients, no testing on animals, just a plant-based, skin-friendly formula that does the job without all the unnecessary additives you might find in conventional branded products.

Wild’s aluminium-free formula is built around a blend of naturally derived ingredients. They have been carefully selected to perform a number of roles such as to control odour, and absorb moisture, all while nourishing the skin. Here’s what you’ll find in the ingredients list:

• Tapioca starch – A natural moisture-absorber that helps reduce dampness without clogging pores. Instead of stopping sweat, it soaks up excess moisture to keep underarms feeling fresh.

• Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) – A natural odour neutraliser that makes the underarm environment less hospitable to bacteria.

• Magnesium hydroxide – Helps balance skin pH, further neutralising odour.

• Zinc ricinoleate – A plant-based odour control agent that traps odour molecules instead of just masking them.

• Caprylic/capric triglycerides – Derived from coconut oil, this ingredient gives the formula a smooth glide-on texture and provides mild antibacterial benefits.

• Coconut oil, shea butter & cocoa butter – These work together to create a soft, creamy texture, making application smooth while keeping skin hydrated and comfortable. Coconut oil also has the added benefit of being naturally antibacterial, offering an extra layer of odour protection.

• Sunflower seed wax – Instead of synthetic stabilisers, Wild uses plant-based waxes to bind the ingredients and keep the deodorant in solid form.

• Triethyl citrate – A natural compound from citric acid that breaks down sweat before it can turn into odour.

• Fragrance & essential oils – Wild’s range of scents includes a mix of natural fragrance components. Essential oils like citral, geraniol, limonene, and linalool contribute to their pleasing natural aromas.

For me, Cherry Blossom is my go-to. It’s a light scent but strong enough to last a full day. If you prefer crisp and fresh, Cotton & Sea Salt is another solid choice, while Coconut Dreams leans into a warmer and more grounding experience with a vanilla scent to it. 

For most people, yes. But it ultimately depends on your skin type. Baking soda is an effective odour neutraliser, but it can be slightly abrasive for those with highly sensitive skin, causing issues such as a rash, which can be referred to as contact dermatitis.

Personally, with a history of eczema and reactive, extremely sensitive skin I still haven’t had any irritation issues, however, I acknowledge it would be possible for some people to develop a reaction.

That said, I truly believe Wild’s formula is the best option for my sensitive skin, being free from artificial preservatives, parabens, and synthetic stabilisers, which all help in making it a more skin-friendly alternative to mainstream products.

On average, a Wild refill lasts around two months, depending on how often and how much you apply. The formula is smooth and spreads evenly, so you don’t need a lot for it to be effective.

For me, one light application in the morning is enough, and I don’t feel the need to reapply. But the compact and durable case also makes it easy to carry around, should you want a top-up.

Since I generally tend to swim more than doing high-intensity workouts, I haven’t tested how well it holds up during intense sweating, but for regular daily wear, it lasts exceptionally well, (for me at least).

Unlike antiperspirants, Wild doesn’t tend to discolour fabrics over time, with yellow or pigmented stains you might find in traditional deodorants that contain synthetic chemicals. However, because it uses tapioca starch, it can leave white marks if applied too thickly or if you put on tight clothing straight away without removing any excess.

I’ve had this happen on occasion, particularly with darker tops, but I’ve found it’s easy to manage and wipe away. Applying a thin layer and waiting a moment before getting dressed usually does the trick. It’s a small adjustment, but one I see as a fair trade-off for using a natural product that avoids aluminium salts.

Switching to natural deodorant after using antiperspirants for years can feel like an adjustment. Some people notice more sweating or a stronger scent at first, which is why the idea of an ‘armpit detox’ has gained traction.

The thinking goes that, after years of blocking sweat glands, your skin needs time to rebalance. There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence that applying clay masks or apple cider vinegar helps things along. Others may find that the adjustment period resolves itself within a few weeks, no extra steps needed.

Really, it’s just about giving your skin a breather and letting it do what it’s designed to do.

• Wild is a deodorant, not an antiperspirant — it prevents odour but won’t stop you sweating.

• The formula is simple yet effective — using natural antibacterial agents instead of synthetic chemicals.

• Refills last about two months — and the case is reusable, reducing plastic waste.

• Scents vary from fresh to floral to vanilla — offering a range of options depending on preference.

• White marks can happen — but they’re avoidable with careful application.

Perhaps a bit longer than a three-word review but I would say this: It does the job well, smells great, looks good, and helps cut down on waste without compromising on performance.

Shop Wild Deodorant at Healf and find both sustainable and effective ways to keep fresh and keep moving naturally.