I’ve been on a quest for a natural deodorant that keeps me fresh, feels good on my skin, and aligns with my clean beauty values. After years of trial and error, I narrowed it down to two heavyweights: Salt & Stone and Primally Pure. In this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience with both, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which one suits your lifestyle.
From scents to sustainability, I’ve tested these products through sweaty workouts and long workdays to find the best fit.
Comparison Table: Salt & Stone vs. Primally Pure
| Feature | Salt & Stone | Primally Pure |
| Price Range | $18-$20 per stick | $12-$16 per stick |
| Key Ingredients | Probiotics, hyaluronic acid, seaweed extracts, shea butter | Baking soda, coconut oil, arrowroot powder, emu oil |
| Scent Options | 5 unisex scents (e.g., Neroli & Basil, Santal & Vetiver) | 6 scents + unscented (e.g., Charcoal, Lemongrass) |
| Longevity | Up to 48 hours | Up to 24 hours |
| Texture | Creamy, smooth, solid or gel | Creamy, slightly grainy solid |
| Packaging | Recyclable plastic | Recyclable plastic, some biodegradable |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes, Leaping Bunny certified | Yes, cruelty-free |
| Best For | Active lifestyles, fragrance lovers | Sensitive skin, minimalists |
Why I Switched to Natural Deodorant
My journey to natural deodorants started a few years ago when I grew uneasy about the aluminum and parabens in traditional antiperspirants. I’d read conflicting studies about aluminum’s health risks, and while the jury’s still out, I wanted to err on the side of caution. Plus, I was tired of yellow pit stains ruining my favorite shirts.
Natural deodorants promised a cleaner alternative, but I quickly learned they’re not all created equal. Some left me smelling like a gym locker by noon, while others irritated my skin. Enter Salt & Stone and Primally Pure—two brands that kept popping up in my search for a reliable, non-toxic option.
My Experience with Salt & Stone
Salt & Stone caught my eye on Instagram with its sleek packaging and bold claims of 48-hour protection. Founded by former pro snowboarder Nima Jalali, the brand markets itself as a leader in “functional fragrance,” blending skin science with luxurious scents. I picked up their Neroli & Basil deodorant, drawn to its fresh, slightly floral vibe, and later tried Santal & Vetiver for a woodier edge.
Pros of Salt & Stone
- Long-Lasting Odor Protection
I put Salt & Stone through the wringer—hot yoga, summer hikes, and 12-hour workdays. To my surprise, it held up remarkably well. Even on sweltering days, I stayed odor-free for a full 24 hours, and sometimes longer. The brand’s claim of 48-hour protection isn’t far-fetched, though I usually reapply daily for peace of mind. The inclusion of probiotics and seaweed extracts seems to work magic in neutralizing odor-causing bacteria.
- Luxurious Scents
The scents are a standout. Neroli & Basil smells like a high-end perfume—crisp, clean, and just floral enough without being overwhelming. Santal & Vetiver, on the other hand, is warm and earthy, perfect for cooler months. These aren’t your typical drugstore deodorant smells; they’re sophisticated and unisex, making them great for anyone who loves a fragrance that doubles as a deodorant.
- Smooth Application
The solid formula glides on like a dream, thanks to shea butter and sunflower seed oil. It’s creamy without feeling greasy, and it doesn’t leave a sticky residue. For those with sensitive skin, their baking soda-free gel option is a game-changer. I never experienced irritation, even after shaving.
- Clean Ingredients
Salt & Stone skips aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and alcohol, focusing on skin-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration and probiotics for odor control. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified, which aligns with my values.
- Stylish Packaging
Let’s be honest: the sleek, minimalist tubes look chic on my bathroom counter. They’re made of recyclable plastic, though I wish they leaned harder into biodegradable materials.
Cons of Salt & Stone
Pricey
At $18-$20 per stick, Salt & Stone isn’t cheap. Compared to drugstore brands, it’s a splurge, especially if you’re used to spending $5 on deodorant. That said, the quality and longevity make it feel worth it for me.
Strong Scents
While I love the fragrances, they can be intense. Black Rose & Oud, for instance, gave me a headache after a few hours. If you’re sensitive to strong scents, stick to lighter options like Neroli & Basil or consider an unscented alternative.
Slight Residue
On dark clothing, I noticed a faint white residue if I applied too much. It’s not a dealbreaker, as it brushes off easily, but it’s something to watch for if you wear a lot of black.
Shipping Delays
I ordered directly from their website once and waited nearly two weeks for delivery, which was frustrating. If you’re in a rush, check retailers like Amazon or Ulta for faster shipping.
My Experience with Primally Pure
Primally Pure came recommended by a friend who swore by their Charcoal deodorant. Founded by Bethany McDaniel, a farmer’s wife passionate about clean living, this brand focuses on simple, organic ingredients. I tried their Lemongrass and Unscented Sensitive deodorants, curious about their reputation for being gentle on sensitive skin.
Pros of Primally Pure
- Affordable Price Point
At $12-$16 per stick, Primally Pure is more budget-friendly than Salt & Stone. They also offer discounts and bundle deals, which make it easy to stock up without breaking the bank.
- Gentle for Sensitive Skin
The Unscented Sensitive deodorant was a lifesaver during a phase when my underarms were irritated from shaving. With minimal baking soda and soothing ingredients like coconut oil and emu oil, it didn’t sting or cause redness. If you’re prone to rashes, this is a solid pick.
- Natural Ingredients
Primally Pure’s ingredient list reads like a recipe from nature: coconut oil, shea butter, arrowroot powder, and emu oil. The inclusion of emu oil, packed with fatty acids and antioxidants, adds a moisturizing boost that’s great for dry or mature skin. Everything is organic, non-toxic, and free of aluminum, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
- Effective Odor Control
I was skeptical about Primally Pure’s 24-hour protection claim, but it delivered. The Charcoal deodorant, with baking soda and kaolin clay, kept me fresh through workouts and busy days. Lemongrass had a bright, citrusy scent that felt uplifting and clean.
- Sustainable Packaging
Primally Pure leans into eco-friendly packaging with recyclable and biodegradable options. It’s not perfect, but it’s a step ahead of Salt & Stone in sustainability.
Cons of Primally Pure
- Grainy Texture
The texture is slightly grainy due to the baking soda, which took some getting used to. It’s not as smooth as Salt & Stone’s creamy formula, and I occasionally felt a slight grit under my arms.
- Limited Longevity
While effective for a full day, Primally Pure doesn’t match Salt & Stone’s staying power. On particularly sweaty days, I needed to reapply by evening, especially with the Lemongrass scent.
- Scent Fades Quickly
The scents, while pleasant, don’t linger as long as Salt & Stone’s. By mid-afternoon, the Lemongrass scent was barely noticeable, though odor protection held up.
- Baking Soda Sensitivity
The baking soda in their standard formula can irritate sensitive skin. While they offer a baking soda-free option, it’s less effective for heavy sweaters like me.
Head-to-Head Comparison
- Ingredients and Formulation
Salt & Stone’s formula feels like a high-tech skincare product, with probiotics and hyaluronic acid working to balance your skin’s microbiome and keep it hydrated. It’s designed for active lifestyles, with ingredients like tapioca starch to absorb moisture. Primally Pure, on the other hand, takes a back-to-basics approach, relying on traditional ingredients like baking soda and arrowroot powder for odor control. The addition of emu oil is unique, offering deep hydration but raising ethical concerns for some vegans, as it’s derived from animals.
- Scent and Fragrance
Salt & Stone wins for fragrance lovers. Their scents are complex and perfume-like, with options like Bergamot & Hinoki and Black Rose & Oud feeling like a luxury splurge. Primally Pure’s scents, like Charcoal and Geranium, are simpler and more essential oil-based, which appeals to minimalists but may disappoint those seeking a bold fragrance. If you prefer unscented products, Primally Pure’s sensitive option is a better bet.
- Performance and Longevity
In my tests, Salt & Stone outperformed Primally Pure in longevity. I could go a full day (and sometimes into the next) without reapplying, even during intense workouts. Primally Pure held up well for daily activities but required reapplication on hotter or more active days. If you’re a heavy sweater, Salt & Stone’s extra-strength formula might be the better choice.
- Skin Sensitivity
Primally Pure is the clear winner for sensitive skin, thanks to its low-baking-soda and unscented options. Salt & Stone’s gel formula is also gentle, but the standard version with baking soda can be harsh for some. If you’ve had issues with irritation from other natural deodorants, Primally Pure’s Unscented Sensitive is a safer pick.
- Packaging and Sustainability
Both brands prioritize eco-conscious packaging, but Primally Pure edges out with biodegradable options. Salt & Stone’s recyclable plastic is a step in the right direction, but it doesn’t feel as sustainable. If environmental impact is a top priority, Primally Pure aligns better with green values.
- Price and Value
Primally Pure is more affordable, with sticks starting at $12 compared to Salt & Stone’s $18. However, Salt & Stone’s longer-lasting protection and premium feel justify the higher price for some. If you’re on a budget, Primally Pure offers great value without sacrificing quality.
My Personal Takeaways
After months of testing, I found myself reaching for Salt & Stone more often. Its luxurious scents and long-lasting protection fit my active lifestyle and love for fragrance. On days when I wanted something gentler or was dealing with irritated skin, Primally Pure’s Unscented Sensitive was my go-to. Both brands are stellar in their own right, but your choice depends on your priorities. If you want a perfume-like experience and don’t mind spending more, Salt & Stone is hard to beat. If you’re budget-conscious or have sensitive skin, Primally Pure is a fantastic option.
How to Choose the Right Deodorant for You
Consider your lifestyle and preferences when deciding. Are you a fragrance enthusiast who wants a deodorant that doubles as a scent? Salt & Stone’s sophisticated profiles might be your match. Do you prioritize affordability and gentle ingredients? Primally Pure’s simple, effective formulas are worth a try. If you’re new to natural deodorants, expect an adjustment period as your body detoxes from aluminum-based antiperspirants. A clay-based detox mask can help speed up the transition.
Tips for Using Natural Deodorants
- Apply to Clean Skin: Both brands work best on freshly washed underarms.
- Use Sparingly: A little goes a long way to avoid residue.
- Exfoliate Regularly: This prevents buildup and enhances effectiveness.
- Be Patient: It can take a few weeks for your body to adjust to natural formulas.
- Layer with Body Mist: For Salt & Stone, pairing with their matching body mist amplifies the scent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on your needs. For sensitive skin, Primally Pure’s Unscented Sensitive outperforms. For budget-friendly options, Native’s aluminum-free formula is a strong contender, lasting up to 72 hours for some users.
Primally Pure edges out slightly due to its organic, minimal ingredient list and focus on sensitive skin. Both Salt & Stone and Primally Pure avoid harmful chemicals like aluminum and parabens, making them solid choices.
Yes, if you value long-lasting protection and luxurious scents. It’s pricier, but its 48-hour effectiveness and chic packaging live up to the buzz for most users.
Absolutely. Salt & Stone is aluminum-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free, using natural ingredients like probiotics and seaweed extracts.
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Conclusion
You’re probably as overwhelmed as I was when I started hunting for the perfect natural deodorant. Salt & Stone and Primally Pure both deliver on clean ingredients and effective odor protection, but they cater to different needs. Salt & Stone is your pick if you love bold fragrances and need all-day reliability for an active lifestyle.
Primally Pure is ideal if you’re budget-conscious or have sensitive skin that needs gentle care. Try both, see what works for your body, and enjoy the confidence of smelling great without the toxins. Your perfect deodorant is out there—you’ve got this!