Great question — for young guys who want natural deodorant (less synthetic fragrance, no aluminum in antiperspirants), here are practical options, what to expect, and tips for choosing and using them.

What “natural deodorant” usually means

• Stops odor (kills or masks bacteria/odor) but generally does not stop sweating (not an antiperspirant unless it contains aluminum).
• Common base ingredients: plant oils/butters (coconut oil, shea), arrowroot or cornstarch (moisture control), baking soda (odor control), magnesium, zinc, or probiotic/enzymatic ingredients (odor control without baking soda).
• Many are marketed as aluminum-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free.

Popular, widely available options

• Native — stick form, several scents, aluminum-free. Generally smooth and easy to use; some people with sensitive skin react to baking soda in certain scents.
• Schmidt’s — comes in stick and jar; has baking-soda and baking-soda-free formulas (sensitive). Strong odor control but can feel a bit pasty for some.
• Kopari — coconut-oil based stick; pleasant scent, moisturizing feel; better for light to moderate odor.
• Jack Black Pit Boss (natural line) / Jack Black Pit Boss Antiperspirant is not natural — note: Jack Black also makes natural deodorants; check label. (If you want strictly natural, pick aluminum-free versions.)
• Primal Pit Paste — jar or stick, variety of strengths; uses baking soda (some use magnesium for sensitive formulas).
• Native + Other newbie-focused brands (e.g., Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh, Lume) — Lume is fragrance-free option and claims long-lasting odor control and works below the belt too.
• Cosrx or other K-beauty brands (if available) — some use zinc or magnesium; good if you prefer gentler chemistry.
• Tom’s of Maine — classic natural brand; milder, widely sold.
• Dove 0% Aluminum? (note: many Dove sticks are conventional antiperspirants — check labels if you want aluminum-free).

Baking-soda-free picks (for sensitive skin)

• Schmidt’s Sensitive (baking-soda-free)
• Native Sensitive
• Kopari (some formulas)
• Lume
• Products labeled “magnesium-based” or “baking soda free”

DIY options (simple, short-term)

• Coconut oil + arrowroot/cornstarch + a few drops of essential oil (lavender, tea tree). Coconut oil has mild antibacterial properties but is not as effective long-term as commercial blends.
• Plain magnesium oil spray (some find it helps odor). Note: DIY can work but watch for irritation/allergies.

How to choose

• Skin sensitivity: if you get red/itchy armpits, avoid baking-soda formulas and choose magnesium or zinc-based, or “sensitive” lines.
• Activity level: if you play sports or sweat heavily, try a brand known for stronger odor control (Schmidt’s, Native, Lume) and reapply as needed.
• Scent preference: pick an unscented or mild scent if you’re sensitive or share close quarters.
• Format: sticks are less messy; creams/jars let you control amount but can be fiddly.
• Try travel sizes or sample packs first (many brands sell minis).

How to use for best results

• Apply to clean, dry skin. If switching from antiperspirant to natural deodorant, your body may need 1–3 weeks to adjust (you may notice more sweat or odor initially).
• For cream/jar products, use a pea-sized amount per armpit and rub in.
• Reapply after heavy sweating or sports.
• If irritation develops, stop and try a baking-soda-free formula.

When to see a change or switch back

• Give a new natural deodorant about 1–3 weeks to judge effectiveness. If you get persistent irritation or very poor odor control after that, try a different formula or return to a conventional product.

Quick starter recommendations

• If you want an easy first try: Native or Tom’s of Maine (mild, widely available).
• If you sweat a lot and want stronger odor control: Schmidt’s or Lume.
• If you have sensitive skin: Choose a labeled “sensitive” or baking-soda-free option (Native Sensitive, Schmidt’s Sensitive, or magnesium-based formulas).
• If you prefer unscented/low-fragrance: Lume unscented or brands with “unscented/clear” sticks.

If you want, I can:

• Suggest 3 specific products (with strengths/weaknesses) tailored to your activity level and skin sensitivity.
• Provide a simple DIY recipe for a cream deodorant. Tell me which you prefer and I’ll give quick, targeted picks.