Crystal deodorant is a type of alternative deodorant made of natural mineral salt called potassium alum, also known as potassium aluminum sulfate. It has been shown to have antimicrobial properties.

Potassium alum has been used as a deodorant in Southeast Asia for hundreds of years. Crystal deodorant has become more popular in Western cultures in the last 30 years.

It has gained popularity due to its:

  • natural ingredients
  • low cost
  • purported health benefits, such as lowering the risk of breast cancer

It’s widely believed that the absorption of aluminum and other harmful chemicals through the underarm can lead to breast cancer. However, according to the National Cancer Institute, there are no scientific studies to support these claims.

That said, some people still wish to eliminate unnecessary chemicals from their body products as much as possible.

Scientific studies proving the advantages of crystal deodorant are lacking, and many of the benefits are anecdotal. Some people swear by it, while others swear it doesn’t work. It all comes down to a matter of preference, since each person’s body chemistry is different.

Keep reading to learn about how this simple and effective deodorant may benefit you.

Crystal deodorant is available as a stone, roll-on, or spray. Sometimes you can find it as a gel or powder. If you use a stone, it may come on its own or attached to a plastic base.

The best time to apply the deodorant is right after you shower or bathe, when your underarms are freshly cleaned and still slightly damp. You can apply it to other body parts as well, but you may wish to have a separate stone for this.

Run the stone under water and then apply it to clean underarms. Make sure you don’t use too much water. If you’re using a stone that’s attached to a plastic applicator, make sure the water doesn’t go into the base. You can store the stone upside down after use to prevent this from happening.

You can rub it up and down or use a circular motion. Continue adding water to the stone and applying it until you feel you’ve covered your entire underarm.

It should feel smooth as you’re applying it. Be careful if your stone is cracked or has any rough edges that might cut or irritate your underarms. Continue to rub until the underarm is dry.

If you’re using a spray, you may want to have a towel wrapped around your body that can catch any excess liquid that might run down from your underarm. There may be a slight chalky residue left on your skin after application, so it’s a good idea to wait until the deodorant dries before getting dressed.

Crystal deodorant may be effective for up to 24 hours. If you wish to apply the deodorant in between showers, you can clean your underarm using rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball before reapplying.

The salt in crystal deodorant helps kill bacteria that cause underarm odor. While you may still sweat, the odor may be reduced or eliminated.

Part of the allure of crystal deodorant is that you’re able to avoid the chemicals found in conventional deodorant.

Wearing deodorant and antiperspirant may inhibit the release of toxins from your body. Preventing your body from sweating naturally is thought to lead to clogged pores and a buildup of toxins.

Common deodorants and antiperspirants may contain the following chemicals:

Many of these chemicals are thought to be harmful to your health and may irritate sensitive skin. It’s important that you read the ingredient list for all deodorants, even if they’re labeled “natural.”

Keep in mind that scented crystal deodorants could contain other ingredients. Carefully read the entire ingredient list.

Stone crystal deodorant can last several months. However, it has the potential to develop an odor after some time. It will be less likely to develop an odor if your underarms are free of hair.

If the smell is a problem, try using a crystal deodorant spray, since it won’t come into contact with your underarms. Prices for crystal deodorant vary but are comparable to conventional deodorant and sometimes cheaper, especially if you use a stone.

You may find that you sweat more than usual once you make the switch from an antiperspirant to crystal deodorant.

The potential for increased body odor during this adjustment phase also exists. Usually your body will adjust after some time.

Crystal deodorant may cause rashes, itchiness, or irritation, especially if your skin is broken or you’ve recently shaved or waxed. It can also cause an allergic reaction such as inflammation, dryness, or redness.

Avoid use when your skin is sensitive and discontinue use if the crystal deodorant continually irritates your skin.

Crystal deodorant may be one natural option.

It will come down to a matter of personal preference and how well it works and reacts with your body, lifestyle, and clothing. It may even work better for you during certain seasons.

You may want to make dietary and lifestyle changes that can help you reduce body odor. If crystal deodorant doesn’t work for you but you still want to find a natural deodorant, you can check out other options.