Does your favorite deodorant contain indications of PFAS “forever chemicals?” PFAS “forever chemicals” are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances used as stain-resistant, water-resistant, & oil-resistant chemicals in commerce. These chemicals are very useful, but also incredibly persistent and toxic. Mamavation was asked if any deodorants contained indications of PFAS and we were not sure unless they were tested. So we sent several off to an EPA-certified laboratory to find out. You’ve trusted Mamavation to bring you topics like safest period underwear without PFAS “forever chemicals,” safest green beauty makeup sans PFAS, or safest laundry detergent sheets without PFAS “forever chemicals,” now join us for our latest consumer study on indications of PFAS “forever chemicals” in some popular deodorants.
Disclosure: This consumer study is released in partnership with Environmental Health News. Scientific reviews were performed by (1) Terrence Collins, Teresa Heinz Professor of Green Chemistry & Director of the Institute for Green Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University, (2) Linda S. Birnbaum, Scientist Emeritus and Former Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program & Scholar in Residence at Duke University, Adjunct Professor at the University of North Carolina, & Yale University, & (3) Scott Belcher, Associate Professor with the Center for Environmental & Health Effects of PFAS at North Carolina State University. This post was medically reviewed by Sondra Strand, RN, BSN, PHN. Donations were provided by Environmental Health News and Mamavation community members. Note that Mamavation has only “spot-checked” the industry and thus we cannot make predictions about brands and products that we have not tested. Products and manufacturing aides can change without notice so buyer beware. This post contains affiliate links, with some to Amazon, which means Mamavation will receive a portion of those sales and we will use that to pay ourselves back for the testing. You can also give a tax-deductible donation to our consumer studies here through Environmental Health Sciences. Thank you!
Table of Contents
Mamavation’s Lab Finds Indications of PFAS “Forever Chemicals” In Deodorants
Mamavation’s EPA-certified laboratory found indications of PFAS “forever chemicals” after analyzing 15 popular deodorants. PFAS is found in many other areas of our homes with some examples being cookware, makeup, drinking water, contact lenses & dental floss. These chemicals are linked to serious health effects, which we will discuss later. Because PFAS are so toxic, Mamavation has commissioned our own scientific studies on indications of PFAS in products to make recommendations for deodorants using PFAS-free materials. Read Mamavation’s articles on these products to find which brands are organic-fluorine-free.
For this consumer study, Mamavation sent 15 deodorants from 14 brands to an EPA-certified laboratory looking for indications of toxic PFAS “forever chemicals.” Here’s what we found:
- 40% of total deodorants tested had indications of PFAS “forever chemicals.” 6 detections from 15 deodorants had organic fluorine above 10 parts per million (ppm) according to our lab,
- Ranges of organic fluorine, a marker of PFAS, were from 11 ppm to 32 ppm.
- Both “natural” and conventional deodorants had some issues, however, we believe these levels are unintentional contamination.
- (Please note this investigation has been updated with 4 additional lab results since this consumer study was originally posted to give our audience more variety, but we have not changed anything else. Therefore, this will not be reflected in the talking points above.)
Linda Birnbaum, Scientist Emeritus and Former Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program & Scholar in Residence at Duke University, and Adjunct Professor at both University of North Carolina, & Yale University had this to say: “Because deodorants are applied every day to our bodies, it’s imperative the deodorant industry needs to find this contamination and address it immediately to ensure that women (& men) are no longer exposed when using their deodorants.”
PFAS “Forever Chemicals” Have Problematic Health Effects
PFAS “forever chemicals” are problematic for human health and the environment. They are considered ubiquitous, persistent, and toxic. In fact, many of these PFAS chemicals can last for years or decades in our bodies. The health effects from exposure to PFAS on the armpit areas right next to breast tissue are unknown. It’s also unknown what happens when it is absorbed into our tissues and travels around in our bodies. However, we do know that these areas can be vulnerable to toxic chemicals like PFAS “forever chemicals” because of the proximity to breast tissue and the lymphatic system. Therefore, it’s imperative to reduce the amount of PFAS you are exposed to from food, water, and consumer products like deodorant. Mamavation is dedicated to helping you do that when you are shopping for deodorant.
Here are some of the health effects of different PFAS “forever chemicals:”
- Reduction in immunity
- Reduced vaccination response
- Increased risk of allergies & asthma in young children
- Affected growth, learning, and behavior of infants and older children
- Increase cholesterol levels
- Metabolic diseases like obesity & diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Lowered a woman’s chance of getting pregnant
- Lowered male fertility
- Increased risk of kidney & testicular cancers
- Causes endocrine disruption
- Disrupted normal thyroid function
- Increases risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children
It’s also very clear based on biomonitoring evidence from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) that PFAS are in all Americans. Therefore, these exposures can harm most Americans.
Terrence Collins, Teresa Heinz Professor of Green Chemistry & Director of the Institute for Green Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University said, “Can we learn to put the seductive technical and cost performances of PFAS compounds into a perspective that appropriately accounts for the horrible health, environmental and fairness performances? The answer, simply put, is “Yes!” In 2021, Maine became the first state to enact a PFAS ban in all products (by 2030), unless the use is deemed “currently unavoidable”. Hopefully more states and the entire Union will follow suit. In the meantime, each deodorant company could protect its customers by investing in finding out how much PFAS is in their products and disclosing this on their product labels. They should look well below the 10 parts per million limit that Mamavation can afford. Some PFAS compounds are endocrine disruptors. Wherever endocrine disruption operates, serious toxicity can be elicited at parts per trillion or at even lower doses.”
Additional Key Ingredients in Deodorants You’ll Also Want to Avoid
Many deodorants claim to be formulated by board-certified dermatologists or other types of doctors for the best odor protection, but how can ingredients that interact with hormones be recommended? Should you trade body odor for endocrine disruption, especially around tissue that is very close to your breasts? Many conventional deodorants or roll-on deodorants, contain a formula with ingredients that can be problematic to human health. So what types of chemicals should you avoid in deodorants? Here are some of the most problematic.
- Parabens: Parabens are those sneaky little ingredients linked to cancer, and developmental and reproductive toxicity. In fact, they are typically found inside breast cancer tumors. Parabens are used in cosmetics to prevent mold, yeast, and odor-causing bacteria from forming. And they are used in cosmetics to give the product a longer shelf life. Are there alternatives? Yes. But parabens are cheaper to use and allow the product to stay on the shelves for years and years and years…until it’s sold. So this is why cosmetic companies use them and why we do investigations on shampoo and conditioner brands to avoid.
- Formaldehyde Releasers: These ingredients are known to release formaldehyde in trace amounts. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen.
- Undisclosed fragrance (can contain any of thousands of chemicals and ingredients are not listed individually): “Fragrance” or scents are either made from petroleum (synthetic fragrances) or botanical raw materials (natural fragrance) or both. It can also contain ingredients like solvents, stabilizers, UV absorbers, preservatives, phthalates, and dyes. These types of chemicals vary in toxicity. But there is lots of mystery surrounding “fragrance” in personal care products. Companies that make perfume buy chemicals from other companies called “fragrance houses.” This means it is possible for a brand to not even know the fragrance chemicals inside their own product. However, as companies and states are moving toward fragrance ingredient disclosure, this is slowly starting to change. (You can make a difference here by only purchasing from brands that are doing 100% ingredient disclosure to help!) The biggest problem is the mystery because no one has any idea what is inside the word “fragrance.”
- Aluminum salts: Some concerns have been raised about aluminum salts that are concerning. However, more studies need to be done to link them directly to health effects like breast cancer or Alzheimer’s.
- Phthalates: Phthalates are another class of ingredient that is also hormone-disrupting and found in most conventional deodorants. And when I say hormone-disrupting, I’m meaning links to things like obesity, hyperactivity in children, and the kicker is infertility in men by degrading sperm quality. In fact, phthalates are so problematic to male fertility, they are being restricted in places like China. Phthalates, although worse for men, are also problematic to women.
- Propylene glycol (PEGs): According to the Center for Disease Control “Propylene glycol breaks down in the body in about 48 hours. However, studies of people and animals show that if you have repeated eye, skin, nasal, or oral exposures to propylene glycol for a short time, you may develop some irritation.” This chemicals is considered “generally recognized as safe” or GRAS by the Food & Drug Administration, yet is not recommended as a precaution because of how irritating it can become and how often people are allergic to it.
- Cyclopentasiloxane: This is a silicon-based cyclic compound that may be associated with environmental toxicity.
- BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole ) & BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene): These ingredients are known hormone disruptors that are linked to liver damage. They are another example of harsh preservatives.
- Ethoxylated Ingredients — Ethoxylated ingredients are generally of low concern on their own. However, they can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. They may also be linked to organ toxicity and reproduction toxicity.
Solutions: What To Do If Natural Deodorant Brands Don’t Work On You
When you pick a more “natural” deodorant without petroleum-based ingredients and find that it doesn’t work on you, don’t fret! There are things you can do to train your underarms to respond better to natural deodorant. You may not be able to control how much you sweat or moisture that comes from your sweat glands, but you can cut down on the bacteria and unpleasant smell that comes from your armpits with natural deodorants by doing an armpit cleanse.
Mamavation’s Armpit Cleanse Routine
There are a few simple steps you need to take to detox and safely switch to a natural deodorant. The following four steps make up Leah Segedie’s recommended cleanse:
- After you stop using your current deodorant, use a loofah when showering to remove dead skin and from under your armpit;
- Apply aluminum-free baking soda to armpits when wet, then apply your natural deodorant.
- Sensitive Option: If you are sensitive to baking soda, as some people are, you can mix bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar and water to create a yogurt type of consistency for your armpit detox mask recipe instead. Mix it in a bowl with a metal spoon and apply an even layer.
- Go about your normal day and when you smell an odor coming from your armpits, wash them with a wet washcloth or rinse them in the shower, and then apply aluminum-free baking soda again. After that, apply the natural deodorant again. Or if you are sensitive to baking soda, use the bentonite clay mixture again.
- Repeat this process for up to two weeks or until your natural deodorant works for up to 6 hours.
Note that the first day you start this armpit cleanse, you may be repeating these steps 5 to 10 times in the first day, but with each application you should be able to go longer and longer. You may want to start this cleanse when you have time to spend indoors at home, like on the weekends. My own cleanse ended after the 4th day, and the average person takes 4-7 days to complete this cleanse. After this cleanse, your natural deodorant should work better and last longer.
If you find that you are sensitive to baking soda, red spots or irritation may develop on your armpits. Don’t worry, just pick up another type of deodorant that doesn’t have baking soda. Once you stop using it, those spots should go away.
Other Categories of Products Mamavation Has Tested for Indications of PFAS “Forever Chemicals”
Before we launch into the raw data from our lab, we wanted to remind you about all the other studies we have done on indications of PFAS “forever chemicals” inside the food and consumer products you may bring inside your home. Each one of these studies were done in a similar fashion as this study with brands sent independently to the lab and raw data of those labs at the bottom of the post.
- Soft Contact Lenses
- Green Beauty Makeup
- Lip Balm
- Condoms & Lubricants
- Dental Floss
- Toilet Paper
- Period Underwear
- Tampons
- Sanitary Pads, Pantiliners, & Incontinence Pads
- Powdered Electrolytes
- Butter Wrappers
- Pasta & Tomato Sauces
- Nut Butters (Peanut butter, etc.)
- Cooking Oils (olive oil, almond oil, canola oil, etc)
- Ketchup
- Activewear (Yoga Pants)
- Sports Bras
- Parchment Paper
- Cupcake Liners
- Plastic-Free Straws
- Fast Food Packaging
- Children’s Probiotics
- Kids’ Backpacks
- Baby Strollers
Mamavation’s Investigation of Deodorants & Indications of PFAS “Forever Chemicals”
Deodorants were purchased between February 2023 and February 2024. For this consumer study, all products were purchased by Mamavation either at Walmart or from Amazon. Each product was recorded in our database and then sent directly to the lab within its original packaging.
Testing: Mamavation’s EPA-certified laboratory uses marker testing to identify the potential presence of PFAS “forever chemicals” in deodorants. Organic fluorine is a marker for PFAS because all PFAS chemicals are carbon-based compounds that contain fluorine. The specific lab method used to test for total fluorine was the Determination of Total Fluorine by Oxygen Flask Combustion and Ion-Selective Electrode. If total fluorine was observed at a detection level of 10 ppm or greater, the lab did the Determination of free Fluoride Ion in the product by Ion-Selective Electrode and then subtracted that from the Total Fluorine to determine the amount of organic fluorine. This marker testing is likely to show the presence of PFAS. Organic fluorine can also capture other fluoropolymers, pharmaceuticals, and common hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants, such as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (commonly known as R-134a) and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (commonly known as HFO-1234yf), which are all also PFAS. None of which you want around your food, or personal care products like deodorants!
Scott Belcher, Ph.D. & Associate Professor with the Center for Environmental & Health Effects of PFAS at North Carolina State University says “fluoropolymers, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are extremely common forms of PFAS that could be contributing to the organic fluorine found in deodorants. Methods used for detecting individual PFAS, such as PFOA or GenX, cannot directly identify PTFE. However, the analysis of total organic fluorine (TOF) does account for all PFAS contaminants in deodorants, including PTFE. Therefore, this method of testing serves as a good ‘spot-check’ of consumer products.”
Mamavation’s Raw Data on Indications of PFAS “Forever Chemicals” in Deodorants
Not Our Favorite Deodorants
These products were sent to an EPA-certified laboratory and found to have detectable organic fluorine, which is indicative of PFAS “forever chemicals” inside.
- Doterra Natural Deodorant Infused with Doterra Balance Grounding Blend Essential Oil — 41 ppm organic fluorine. (Tapioca Starch, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Stearyl Alcohol, Sodium Bicarbonate, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Butter, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Jojoba Esters, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Triethyl Citrate, Picea mariana (Spruce) Branch/Leaf Oil, Cinnamomum camphora linaloolifera (Ho Leaf) Oil, Boswellia carterii (Frankincense) Oil, Tanacetum annuum (Blue Tansy) Flower/Leaf/Stem Oil, Chamomilla recutita (Blue Chamomile) Oil, Osmanthus fragrans (Osmanthus) Flower Extract, Tocopherol) [Updated investigation with new lab results 8/24]
- Dr. Teals Aluminum Free Deodorant Magnesium Eucalyptus & Essential Oils — 34 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Magnesium Hydroxide, Maranta Arundinacea Root Powder (Arrowroot), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Stearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Zinc Ricinoleate, Fragrance (Parfum), Eucalypts Globulus Leaf Extract, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Extract, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Maltodextrin.)
- Each & Every Rose & Vanilla Deodorant — 12 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Caprylic/capric triglyceride, tapioca starch, ozokerite, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, piroctone olamine, juniperus virginiana oil, pelagonium graveolens flower oil, cymbopogon martini oil, rosa damascena flower oil, vanilla planifolia fruit extract, citrus aurantium bergamia (bergamot) fruit oil.)
- Hello Sweet Coconut Deodorant — 14 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: maranta arundinacea (root powder), cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, caprylic/ capris triglyceride, stearyl alcohol, butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, copernicia cerifera (carnauba) wax, triethyl citrate, oryza sativa (rice) bran wax, fragrance, magnesium hydroxide, zinc ricinoleate, tocopheryl acetate, melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil.)
- Hey Humans Sandalwood Cypress Deodorant — 14 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Maranta Arundinacea (Arrow) Root Powder, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Bicarbonate, Tapioca Starch, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Calcium Starch Octenylsuccinate, Stearyl Stearate, Fragrance, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Zinc Ricinoleate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Sorbitol/Sebacic Acid Copolymer Behenate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-2 Caprate, Water (Aqua/Eau), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Flower Extract, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool, Hydroxycitronellal, Citral, Citronellol, Geraniol, Cedarwood Oil*, Patchouli Oil*. *Essential OiLS)
- Lume Whole Body Deodorant — 32 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Ozokerite, Stearyl Alcohol, Isododecane, Isopentyldiol, Maranta Arundinacea Root Powder, Lauryl Laurate, Mandelic Acid, Sorbitan Oleate, Silica, Panthenol, Caffeine, Ethylhexylglycerin)
- Magsol Magnesium Deodorant Smooth Glide Format Jasmine 100% Natural Deodorant — 14 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, beeswax, magnesium oxide, natural fragrance oils) [updated investigation with this new lab result 8/24]
- Secret Lavender 48 HR Invisible solid Antiperspirant — 11 ppm organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Stearyl Alcohol, Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly, Mineral Oil, PPG-14 Butyl Ether, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Petrolatum, Kaolin, Cyclodextrin, Ozokerite, Fragrance, C20-40 Pareth-10, Behenyl Alcohol)
Better Deodorants
This group of products were sent to an EPA-certified lab and were found NOT to have any detectable organic fluorine. However, there are other ingredients inside these product, like “fragrance” that we are concerned with and have put them in the better realm instead.
- Degree MotionSense Ultraclear Black & White Pure Clean Invisible Solid Antiperspirant — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate (9.6%), Cyclopentasiloxane, PPG-14 Butyl Ether, Stearyl Alcohol, Polyethylene, Fragrance (Parfum), Glycine, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-8 Distearate, Calcium Chloride, Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate, Silica, Maltodextrin, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch Octenylsuccinate, BHT)
- Degree Shower Clean Antiperspirant Deodorant — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GLY 18.2%; Cyclopentasiloxane, Isopropyl Palmitate, Stearyl Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Talc, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Steareth-100, BHT)
- Dove Advanced Care Go Fresh Cool Essentials Antiperspirant Deodorant — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GLY (15.2%) Inactive Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Stearyl Alcohol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, PPG-14 Butyl Ether, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Dimethicone, Polyethylene, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Steareth-100, BHT)
- Dr. Squatch Men’s Natural Deodorant Pine Tar — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Manihot Esculenta (Arrowroot) Powder, Stearyl Alcohol, Magnesium Hydroxide, Beeswax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Triethyl Citrate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Natural Fragrance, Jojoba Esters, Charcoal Powder, Lactobacillus Ferment, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Maltodextrin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Oil)
- Native Deodorant Coconut & Vanilla — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tapioca Starch, Ozokerite, Sodium Bicarbonate, Magnesium Hydroxide, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cyclodextrin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Fragrance, Dextrose, Lactobacillus Acidophilus)
- Norwex Lysere Prebiotic Deodorant with Aloe Vera & Witch Hazel Lavender Coconut — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Stearate, Glyceryl Laurate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Alcohol, Silica, Inulin, Fructose, Charcoal, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Extract, Chondrus Crispus (Red Algae) Extract, Vaccinium Uliginosum (Bilberry) Berry Extract, Vaccinium VitisIdaea (Lingonberry) Fruit Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil*, Cetyl Alcohol, Iron Oxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance/Parfum (Natural)**. Contains nut-derived ingredients (palm nut, shea nut, coconut) *Certified Organic. **Fragrance/Parfum (Natural): Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Abies Sibirica (Fir Needle) Oil, Lavandula Hybrida (Lavandin) Oil, Juniperus Mexicana (Cedar) Oil, Vanillin, Triethyl Citrate, Isoamyl Acetate, 3-hexenol, Terpineol Alpha/French, Ethyl Hydroxypyrone, Dodecahydro-Tetramethylnaphthofuran, Gamma-Octalactone, Maltol, Camphor, Hexyl Cinnamal, Coumarin, Linalyl Acetate, Linalool, Gamma-Nonalactone.) [updated investigation with this new lab result 8/24]
- Suave Powder Invisible Solid Antiperspirant Deodorant — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Isopropyl Palmitate, Stearyl Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Talc, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Steareth-100, Bht.)
Best Deodorants
This group of deodorants were sent to an EPA-certified lab and were found to NOT have any detectable organic fluorine. They also had ingredients that were not expected to disrupt hormones, so we added them to the “best” category. (Unfortunately, the safest deodorants we found all use baking soda in their formulations, so we will have to continue testing more brands to find alternatives that do not for you at a later date. This may be a problem for people with sensitive skin who get contact dermatitis or skin irritation from baking soda exposure.)
- Bello Tallow Deodorant Peppermint Lemongrass — non-detect organic fluorine. (Use discount code “MAMAVATION” for 10% off products!) (Ingredients: American Grassfed Association Certified Suet Tallow, Pure Texas Beeswax, USDA Organic Arrowroot Powder, Kaolin Clay, Ancient Minerals Magnesium Chloride, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, Baking Soda, ROCKY MOUNTAIN OILS ESSENTIAL OILS: Peppermint, Lemongrass)
- Bellow Tallow Deodorant Lux Blue Deodorant — non-detect organic fluorine. (Use discount code “MAMAVATION” for 10% off products!) (Ingredients: American Grassfed Association Certified Suet Tallow, Pure Texas Beeswax, USDA Organic Arrowroot Powder, Kaolin Clay, Ancient Minerals Magnesium Chloride, Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, Baking Soda, ROCKY MOUNTAIN OILS ESSENTIAL OILS: Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), Sandalwood (Santalum album), Sacred Frankincense (Boswellia sacra), Copaiba (Copaifera reticulta), Blue Tansy (Tanacetum annuum), Orange (Citrus sinensis), Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata var genuina), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) [updated investigation with new lab result 10/2024]
- Primally Pure Deodorant Lavender — non-detect organic fluorine. (Use discount code “MAMAVATION” for 10% off products!) (Ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Arrowroot Powder, Organic Tallow from Grass-Fed Cows, Baking Soda, Organic Beeswax, Non-nano Zinc Oxide, Kaolin Clay, Organic Lavender Essential Oil, Organic Rosemary Extract and Non-GMO Vitamin E)
- Stinkbug Unscented Deodorant — non-detect organic fluorine. (Ingredients: Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Beeswax, Sodium Bicarbonate, Organic Zea Mays (Corn) Starch) [updated investigation with this new lab result 8/24]
- Truvani Organic Deodorant Vanilla Cedarwood — non-detect organic fluorine. (This version is discontinued, but here are the ingredients to the Citrus version which we did not test. We’ve linked up the citrus version for you in case you would like to purchase that instead: Organic rosemary extract, Organic coconut oil, Organic beeswax, baking soda, organic sunflower seed oil, organic shea butter, organic MCT oil, organic tapioca starch, organic arrowroot powder.)
Basketball stars
I found interesting things from your content, Basketball stars 3 thank you!
Офшор Купить
Thanks! Little Seed Farm Charcoal would be great to test in the future.
Vonrueden
It’s scary I didn’t think these dangerous chemicals would be in something I use every day. I’m playing 2 player games if anyone is interested you can join.
Rosemarie
I’m alarmed to see Doterra on the not-favorite list. I do not use it but use some of their other products, including their sun Face + Body Mineral Sunscreen Stick and sun Face + Body Mineral Sunscreen Lotion because of their non-nano zinc. Should I now be concerned re: potential PFAS content? This whole process of finding good, clean products is becoming a minefield!
Terri
I use lavilin due to my sensitivity to most deodorants. It s amazing. a test on this would be great.
Lori P.
Just a note to say thank you for all the work you do to provide information to the general public on products of concern…toxins. I am confused on this report for deodorant as in the general information under Aluminum Salts you address the issue of it being linked to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s which is why I’ve been told to stay away from any deodorants containing “Aluminum.” But yet under the “Better” category of deodorants you’ve included three deodorants that contain Aluminum…Degree MotionSense, Degree Shower Clean and Dove. While it’s great that they are a better choice when considering PFAS’s, they still shouldn’t hit the “Better” category when they contain other ingredients of concern. Disappointed that Mamavation would lead consumers to choose an item that is not a good choice.
Anonymous
why recommend bentonite clay which is known to be high in lead?
S
I generally use PitPutty by Bubble and Bee. Please test that. I also have a few from PrimalPitPaste.
B
When I’m at home, a little coconut oil keeps me stink free for 2 to 3 days. When I go out I use a few different deodorants from Bubble & Bee Organic, no bad stuff! Keeps me stink free & dry!
Jessi
Thank you for this! My husband uses Native but a different scent, so that is good to know.
I use Primal Pit Paste by Pretty Frank. It comes in a glass jar (what I get) or a normal stick. I use unscented baking soda free. I’d love to see this baking soda free clean brand on your next list!
bolo Jean
All of the Better Deodorants contain Tallow in them. Tallow may clog your pores.
Karen Johnson
We certainly need more research into this unclear health effect.
Christine
I’m confused – you listed Each & Every Rose and Vanilla as Not Your Favorite because it has 12 ppm organic fluorine – what ingredient would that be on the list because I’m not seeing that and it has an EWG verified stamp on it. I’ve been scanning products on the EWG app and only buying verified products, so I’m a little concerned with what your report found. As a breast cancer survivor, I just want to make sure I have all the facts on products. Can you shed some light on this?
Meg
Hi, I use Humble simply unscented deodorant. Is it possible to test that one? Thank you so much for all that you do!
KS
Try Little Seed brand deodorant, Bubble and Bee or Primally Pure brands
All safe!
EWG isn’t always the best source
Shawna
In my understanding, (I look for EWG certified products as well as my gold standard) EWG looks for harmful ingredients but it doesn’t test products for PFAS. That’s why we need both EWG info AND Mamavation’s lab findings as Leah goes that one, needed step further. Often brands with fantastic, clean ingredients still have PFAS because of equipment used in processing the product, etc. so Leah focuses on testing for those toxins.
basketball stars
This men’s deodorant has cedar and native sea salt. Scent of Stone, Harry’s deodorant.
Morgan Handy
Can you tag me in the fb group after you add a baking soda free option to the best list please? Thank you!
Weary
Thanks for your work on this & everything else!
I’m wondering if you’d test Native products–their deodorants and everything else. They pitch themselves as very solid when it comes to toxic chemicals, but that could be marketing. I want to love them, just not sure if their pitch is their truth.
On deodorants, they do have a cardboard/paper alternative to plastic, which is nice, but I know PFAS has been found in toilet paper and paper towels, so paper isn’t the
Leah Segedie
One of the brands that was non-detect had a lot of trouble finding a cardboard applicator that was not full of PFAS and other mystery chemicals. So unfortunately, I don’t think that option is as “clean” as they sell it as in general.
Leah Segedie
We included that brand in the testing already.
Lisa
Thank you so much for your work and for spreading the news.
Have you researched Lavalin Deodorant? There are many formulas now, but I used to use the original cream in a small tub, and noticed they have just added fragrance. They have a different, unscented roll on, here are the ingredients:
Deionized Water, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch, Zinc Oxide, Capryloyl Glycine, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Maltodextrin, Hyssopus Officinalis Extract, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Allantoin
Leah Segedie
We haven’t tested this brand yet
TSA
What about “Thai Crystal Deodorant Mist”? PFA free?
Suspect it is…but don’t know!
Leah Segedie
I couldn’t tell you. We’ve not tested that brand.
Leslie G Ineman
Thanks Leah. Please add Stinkbug Charcoal Vanilla Mint. The packaging has been changed from plastic to cardboard so I think the company is making an effort to make their deodorants safer. https://www.stinkbugorganics.com/products/vanilla-mint-charcoal-deodorant/
Carla Klausler
Generally, if one scent of a certain brands has SFAS, do all the other scents have it as well?
Holly Lovey
Thank you! I’ve had breast cancer at 37 and at 2019. This is great information.
Claire
Can you specify for the Lume deodorant which one you tested, specifically? Was it the solid formulation or the cream?
Annie Thomas
Thank you for all this work. Honestly. What a difference you all make.
We use Bulldog deodorant. If you can,
please test this one too.
Annie
Nicole Biggins
Thank you for all that you do. I’d love to see Beautycounter and Pure Haven deodorants tested, as well.
Fran
Please test Schmidt’s deodorant preferably the lavender scent
Carolina
I second testing Schmidt deodorant. Thank you for all you do.
Fran
Please test Schmidt’s deodorant preferably the lavender scent. Thank you
Haven
I would also like to see Schmidt’s Deodorant tested! It has been my go-to for years!
Ward Clark
Please include Tom’s of Maine deodorants in your testing. I’ve been using Tom’s Unscented Stick deodorant since the 70s.
Jasmine
Bubble and Bee makes several baking soda free formulas, and always uses clean, organic ingredients. Curious to see where they would land on this list. Also wondering about Schmidt’s.
Thanks so much for all your hard work keeping us safe out here!
Jane Sharpe
Would you be open to testing Pit Liquor if I donate one? They are steeping their original recipe now, so it may not be quite available yet.
K
Would love to see Little Seed Farm (https://littleseedfarm.com/collections/products) added to your testing. Thank you for all you do.
B
I would love to know about little seed farm deodorant as well!
Cassandra Schmigotzki
Please add Schmidt’s to the next round.
Lynn
Can you please review Tom’s of Maine?
Debbie Knight
@LeahSegedie Yes, I also would love it if you would review Tom’s of Maine again. If you let me know, I will contribute them if you can test them.
Maneh Bagramyan
Arm & Hammer Essentials natural aluminum Free deodorant? Thank you! Cheapest on the market $3 !
Anonymous
Please test schmidts
sarah
Thank you !!! For next time please add Weleda sage deodorant spray and Weleda citrus roll on – happy to send or send $ for them LMK
Eeb
I would also love to hear about Weleda spray deodorants. I have been happily using them for about 25 years. I’d hate to switch but would if I had to . . .
kt
Another great article, thank you for posting the detox steps.
Throwing up PURE HAVEN (baking soda & peppermint) & (HUMBLE unscented) for future testing.
Barbara
Please test: Agents Nateur Holi Stick
https://www.agentnateur.com/collections/products/products/travel-sized-natural-deodorant
Dee
Please include Schmidt’s next time too!! 🙏
Kare
Would love to see acure deodorant and just ingredients deodorant tested as well. Appreciate all your hard work!
Erin
Great article and work, thank you. Can you test Crystal Essence: Crystal Mineral roll on lavender and white tea also?
Saskia Meckman
Native lavender and rose 🙏🏼
Pam H
Please include Honesty Phresh.
Thank you
Anonymous
Can you try Crystal Mineral deodorant roll on with Lavender I your next round?
Melissa
Thank you Leah! You are amazing!
Wanda
Can you please test Schmidt’s and Humble Deodorant. Thank you
thecolorgreen3
Thanks! Little Seed Farm Charcoal would be great to test in the future.
Briana R
Some of the ones with detectible levels of fluorine 😳
I have been using Ethique floral scent deodorant for years and it’s the only “nontoxic” brand that works for my funk. Thanks so much Leah for keeping us informed
Truth59
I’m so glad Lume is on the not our favorite list. I hate their commercials and we have to be subjected to them at least four or five times/hour.
bolo Jean
That’s not nice to hate a brand because of how they promote their stuff.
T.H
Would love to know about Caudalie and Salt & Stone as theyre my fave “safe deodorants.
Alyssa Neuhauser
Would love to see Little Seed Farm! Happy to donate <3
Robbie
Thank you always! Next round of testing please add
Humble, Earthly, Beauty Counter, and Just Ingredients.
Thank you!!
Griselda
Native Sea Salt and Cedar mens deodorant. Harry’s deodorant Stone scent.
Brandy
Thank you!! On the next round can you test little seed farm?
Sally Garrett
Brilliant! Thank you, Leah! The brand I use is made in the UK, but ships to the US. Carr Greens.
https://www.carrgreens.com/collections/natural-deodorants/products/geranium-lemon-natural-deodorant
Mary Grouss
Thank you, Leah! Would be happy to donate Curie for testing! So grateful for all you do!
Jamie
I like Primally Pure, but hate their packaging. So much is left in the container. I had to switch!
Naomi Altman
I’d love to see Rowe Casa Organic tested. Thanks for all that you do!
Gina
I would love to know if Humble deodorant would pass inspection. I think what you do is amazing and all the information you provide is appreciated. Thank you.
Marissa
Please test Beautycounter next. Thank you.