Finding a healthy, effective deodorant can be challenging. This article compares Lume and Native deodorants, focusing on effectiveness, scent, ingredients, and cost to help you determine which might be best for you. We’ll also explore some potential DIY alternatives to Lume.
Lume vs. Native: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Both Lume and Native are popular aluminum-free deodorant options, but they differ in their active ingredients and formulations. How do they stack up against each other in real-world testing?
Effectiveness: Does it Really Work?
Lume: Lume claims 72-hour odor protection and skin-tone evening benefits. In personal testing, it struggled to provide all-day odor control, even after showering. The caffeine content was also a concern, causing sleep disruption when applied at night.
Native: Native also claims 72-hour protection. The baking soda-free version didn’t provide full 12-hour protection and sometimes resulted in an unpleasant odor. However, the original formula with baking soda offered superior odor control.
Scent: Finding a Pleasant Aroma
Lume: Has a slight medicinal scent in the unscented version, with stronger synthetic fragrance options available.
Native: The unscented baking soda-free version has a subtle sweetness potentially from natural ingredients or fragrance cross-contamination. The original formula has a faint, natural, food-like scent. Both offer scented versions with varying EWG ratings.
Ingredients: Decoding the Label
Lume: Primarily utilizes mandelic acid and caffeine as active ingredients. Rated a 1 by EWG for clean ingredients. However, it has tested positive for low levels of PFAS. Free of aluminum, baking soda, parabens, sulfates, and artificial dyes.
Native: The sensitive formula relies on magnesium oxide and cyclodextrin. The original formula includes baking soda and probiotics alongside magnesium and cyclodextrin. Unscented versions receive an EWG rating of 1. Scented versions vary between 2 and 3. Mostly natural ingredients, with synthetic fragrances in scented options. Tested free of PFAS.
Cost: Comparing Price Points
Both Lume and Native are similarly priced, around $12-$15 per stick, with potential discounts for bundles or subscriptions.
What are Some Alternatives to Lume?
If you’re looking for a DIY alternative to Lume’s mandelic acid approach, consider diluting The Ordinary Lactic Acid or Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution with a skin oil like jojoba oil. Consult with a dermatologist before trying DIY skincare solutions.
Conclusion: Which Deodorant is Right for You?
If baking soda doesn’t irritate your skin, Native’s original formula is a strong contender for effective odor control. If you have sensitive skin, both Lume and Native’s sensitive formula are worth trying to see which works best for you. Native may be a better choice if you prioritize natural ingredients. Remember to always patch test new products before full application.
