Two Trains Commutes, a Pilates Class and a London Heatwave Later, This Natural Deodorant Still Held Up

AKT The Deodorant Balm Review

What Makes AKT Deodorant Different From Other Deodorants?

Firstly, it's important to note the difference between antiperspirants and deodorants, as they both work differently. Most traditional antiperspirants contain aluminium salts, which physically block your sweat glands to keep you dry. They prevent sweat. Deodorants, on the other hand, neutralise odours that can form when we sweat.

AKT's deodorant balm doesn't contain any aluminium salts. However, the velvety balm dries down into a dry powder, helping to keep you feeling dry throughout the day, while the natural botanicals work to keep away odours too.

What I Thought of the AKT Deodorant

I'll be honest, I was so nervous to swap out my usual deodorant, which I've been using for over 15 years, for this. I opted for the After Thunder scent, which is a really gorgeous blend of cedarwood, eucalyptus and orange. As its name suggests, it smells exactly like the fresh, botanical air you breathe in after a downpour in a forest—a great first impression.

I used a large pea-sized amount and applied it to my underarms. It takes some getting used to applying it with your fingers, but AKT also offers The Applicator (£26), a gua-sha-inspired tool that you can use to apply the balm anywhere you need it. The balm can be applied anywhere, from underarms to your back and all the way down to your feet. The aluminium tube is easy to squeeze so you get the right amount of product, but I'd recommend buying The Key (£11), which helps you to neatly roll down the tube and ensure none of your product is wasted.

The first day I tried it, it was a warm summer's day as I headed into our London office on the train. But even after a warm journey and then two tube changes on the sweltering Underground, I was surprised to find that I still felt dry and fresh as when I'd left home. Then, after commuting home in the evening, I remained feeling fresh and dry. Genuinely, I was shocked. The AKT founders themselves used to work on London's West End, where they put this to the test amongst actors working on stage (think hot lights and hectic show schedules), and it clearly performs for daily life, too.My next test was seeing how it held up during a workout. I applied it before my reformer Pilates class with high-intensity movements—during which I'd work up a sweat—and by some miracle, I remained feeling fresh and dry after a 50-minute class.

The only thing I will say is that prior to my class, I was running late, so I got dressed very quickly. I applied the deodorant balm first and then put on my black sports bra. Because I didn't give it a minute to dry down, I did notice some white transfer onto my sports bra. My advice would be to give it a minute or two to dry completely into the powdery finish before dressing, as you won't get any transfer this way.

The Verdict

I'm shocked, but I might actually be converted to this natural deodorant balm now. It exceeded my expectations, and I now feel confident to wear it, knowing it can hold up during busy days and gym classes. The scents are really stunning and well-considered, and they leave me feeling confident that I'm fresh throughout the day. Yes, it will take some getting used to if you've long been a wearer of anti-perspirants or standard roll-on or spray deodorants. But I actually found I got used to it quickly. I also tried the No Notes version, which is completely unfragranced for those who don't want a scent, but I can't wait to try more of the scents. I also love that the aluminium tube and cap are totally recyclable, so there is zero waste. But if you need further convincing, a few other members of the Who What Wear UK team also rate it, too.

"I'd tried to become a natural deodorant convert over and over again before trying AKT, and I couldn’t stick to anything," says Who What Wear UK assistant social media editor, Annie Wheatland-Clinch. "I’d heard about AKT’s balm formula from a friend who couldn’t recommend it enough. 'I wore it all of Glastonbury and didn’t stink once' was the line that eventually convinced me to try it out. I think once you get over the self-application (there is a handy applicator to buy if you prefer this way, but honestly, I think you get the most coverage by applying with your hands) and it’s so nice not to think about reapplying deodorant after a long day. I’ve tried a few different scents because they all smell delicious, but for me, After Thunder works the best. I’ll apply once in the morning and not think about it again."

Copy editor Georgia Seago also counts herself as a fan. "I’ve tried a few natural deodorants, and they all pale in comparison to AKT," she says. "It’s one of the best I’ve ever used in general—not just amongst natural formulas—and I love it for a few reasons. First, the scents are super elevated (I like After Thunder and Columbia Road best); second, a tube lasts for ages because you only need a tiny amount; and third, the tube makes it super-easy to travel with or throw in your bag. Most importantly, though, it actually stops me from sweating all day. One thing I will say is that I personally find the unscented version to be a little less effective.”

For client success manager, Jerrylyn Saguiped, she recommends it to everyone. "The Deodorant Balm by AKT is the one beauty product I absolutely swear by and have recommended to all of my friends. I use the Orange Grove scent, which has notes of mandarin and neroli and is perfect for summer (but I use it all year round). I'm trying to be more intentional about the products I use, and I love that the balm is aluminium and cruelty-free. While other natural balms have failed to impress, this one by AKT genuinely lasts all day and doesn't irritate my skin," she says.

Shop AKT The Deodorant Balm

How We Tested

I tested AKT's The Deodorant Balm in multiple situations to see how well it held up. I wore it during busy days in the office, on hot train commutes and even to the gym to see how well it worked. I also asked members of the Who What Wear UK team to share their experiences with the different scents.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.