the aluminum-free struggle is real
Foreword
The day of my very first deodorant post has come. After all, we all use them, yet there are barely any reviews available. Finding one that works feels like a lonely road. For many years I trusted and used Native as my "aluminum-free" go-to. However, after the recent brand controversy, linked to PFAS being found in multiple products, I had to switch to something else. As my hunt for the best non-toxic deodorant began, I stumbled upon a little something from Sol de Janeiro, which is the star of this review.
Curious? Then please keep on scrolling
My Skin: dry, sensitive
About the Product
Sol de Janeiro Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant (16 USD; Made in USA) - is described as an aluminum-free deodorant that hydrates, soothes, and protects the skin. It promises to keep you fresh and ingrown hair-free. Currently available in three scents.
Packaging: true to the Sol de Janeiro style you look at a colorful, eye-catching design. This twist-up stick deodorant comes with two lids; the one on the inside locks the product in to protect it from drying out. However, at some point, after long use, the product residue gets permanently stuck in the inner lid which means you will have to scrape it off and apply it manually. This has happened to every single Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant I have purchased, so I guess it is a manufacturing flaw.
On the bright side, the brand now sells individual refills (15 USD). You get 57 g/ 2 oz worth of product, which is a standard amount.
Formula: what I appreciate about the Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant is that it is made with skin-loving ingredients. My pet peeve with antiperspirants is that eventually, they dry you out and even cause itchy and flaky skin.
Here you have a Coconut Oil base infused with other ingredients like Rice Bran Wax, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Mango Seed Butter, Papaya Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Maple Extract to name a few. This formula is free of Baking Soda, Parabens, and Aluminum.
Vegan-friendly🌱 Cruelty-free🐇
Texture: extra smooth, solid consistency. The deodorant is white, but once absorbed it sets clear.
Scent: there is an added fragrance. Typical for Sol de Janeiro, it runs on the sweet side, however, is not overpowering. Every deodorant has its signature scent. They are not identical to color-matching body lotion or body spray scents though.
Application: as long as the packaging is intact, the use is quick and easy. The product glides on like silk and does not collect in lines or crevices. If you want to ensure that there is no residue left that might transfer onto clothes, gently massage the product into the skin.
I would advise applying any Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant on cleansed, dry skin.
Wear: the thing with aluminum-free deodorants is that most of them have setbacks. While they are safer to use, they also do not hold sweat and may stop working after a certain hour. This inevitably means that even with the Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant you do need to re-apply it at least a few times a day to stay fresh. Especially if we talk about working out.
When it is freshly applied, the Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant will last quite well through even intense workouts. You might look sweaty, but you will smell great. I also find that this product does not stain clothes, especially white or black.
Naturally, we all have different bodies, so the results will vary from person to person. This product feels weightless and comfortable. No stickiness, dryness, or irritation.
Verdict
While no aluminum-free deodorant formula is perfect, this Sol de Janeiro creation is one of the better products I have tried thus far. I find all three scents to be quite nice and true to the brand's beachy, tropical aesthetic. I do wish the brand would fix the packaging as the last thing I want to do is stick my fingers into a deodorant to apply it. I also find that I run out of the Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant a lot faster compared to other stick or roll-on deodorants of a similar kind (and weight). Perhaps the need to re-apply is the reason. Regardless, this is my go-to product at the moment. I can trust it be it a sweaty Pilates workout or a day full of errands. While there are things to improve here, I still think it is a good product and give it a B rating.
More online:
sephora.com (USA)
ulta.com (USA)
cultbeauty.com (World)
Purchased product; full disclaimer here
