Why You Should Avoid Aluminium Deodorant When You Tan — And Why Natural Alternatives Give You Better Results

If you’ve ever noticed the skin under your arms turning green or your tan developing unevenly around the armpit area, the problem is almost never the tan itself. The real issue is what you’re applying before the tan: deodorant, specifically deodorant containing aluminium.

Aluminium-based deodorants are one of the most common causes of green discolouration in fake tan, yet most people don’t realise the connection. This guide explains exactly why aluminium interferes with your tan, how to prevent it, and why switching to a natural deodorant can dramatically improve your tanning results.

What’s Actually Happening When Your Underarms Turn Green?

When fake tan is applied over deodorant that contains aluminium salts, the aluminium reacts with the DHA (the active ingredient in tanning products that develops colour). This reaction causes the tan to take on a greenish tint, particularly in the underarm area.

It’s not mould.
It’s not an application error.
It’s not a faulty tan.

It’s a chemical reaction caused by aluminium residue on the skin.

Even small traces of aluminium left behind after showering can oxidise when DHA is applied over the top — especially in warm, moist areas like the underarms.

Why Aluminium Causes a Green Reaction With Fake Tan

Here’s the simple science:

• Fake tan contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a sugar-derived compound that reacts with amino acids in the skin to create a bronzed colour.

• Many deodorants contain aluminium salts that form a temporary gel plug in the sweat ducts to reduce perspiration.

• When DHA interacts with aluminium residue, the colour is altered and oxidises to a greenish tone.

This is the same chemistry behind jewellery turning skin green — a reaction between metal and moisture.

Once the green tint appears, it cannot be washed off immediately because it develops during the DHA processing phase. The only way to fix it is exfoliation.

Why the Armpit Area Is So Prone to Turning Green

The underarms are already a tricky area for tanning due to:

• High moisture

• Warmth

• More frequent washing and sweating

• Thinner, sensitive skin

• Deodorant build-up

These factors create the perfect environment for aluminium residue to linger and oxidise.

Even if you:

• Showered right before tanning

• Used a new deodorant that morning

• Only applied a light layer

Aluminium molecules can remain inside the pores, waiting to react with DHA.

Why Natural Deodorant Is Better for Tanning

Natural deodorants avoid aluminium entirely, meaning no chemical reaction can occur when fake tan develops.

Natural deodorants typically use ingredients such as:

• Magnesium

• Arrowroot powder

• Coconut oil

• Zinc oxide

• Essential oils

• Shea butter

These formulas neutralise odour rather than blocking sweat glands, and they don’t create a barrier that interferes with DHA.

Benefits of natural deodorants for tanning:

• No aluminium → no green armpits

• No gel-based residue that blocks tan development

• No heavy chemical film

• Skin is left in a more natural state for even DHA development

• Less irritation on sensitive underarm skin

• Better tan adhesion

Natural deodorants keep the skin clean, breathable, and DHA-friendly.

Other Deodorant Ingredients That Can Interfere With Tanning

Aluminium isn’t the only problem. Some deodorants contain ingredients that can also disrupt tan absorption:

1. Heavy Antiperspirants

These create a thick barrier that stops tan from sticking, leading to patchiness or a completely pale underarm.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol dries the skin, which can cause cracking or faded areas.

3. Fragrance + Perfume Oils

These can interact with DHA and shift the colour.

4. Silicone-Based Formulas

These create slip on the skin, preventing DHA from gripping.

5. Bicarbonate Soda in Some Natural Deodorants

While aluminium-free, high levels of bicarb can irritate and lead to uneven development if the skin becomes sensitised.

If you’re tanning regularly, a mild, aluminium-free deodorant is best.

How to Prep Your Underarms Before Tanning (to Avoid Green Tint)

Here’s the ideal tanning prep routine for underarms:

1. Switch to a Natural Deodorant at Least 24–48 Hours Before Tanning

This ensures aluminium detoxification has begun and reduces residue.

2. Always Shower Before You Tan

Use Naked Tan Body Cleanser — it’s free of stripping agents and won’t affect your tan chemistry.

3. Gently Exfoliate the Underarms

Use a soft mitt. This removes any product build-up and dead skin.

4. Avoid Applying Deodorant Immediately After Showering

Keep the area completely clean and product-free before tanning.

5. Ensure the Skin Is Dry

Moisture under the arms dilutes developing tan.

6. Apply Tan Sparingly

Underarms often need less tan than other areas.

This combination reduces the risk of green tones dramatically.

What to Do If Your Armpits Have Already Turned Green

Don’t worry — it’s fixable.

Follow this process:

1. Shower with Naked Tan Body Cleanser to remove residual product gently

2. Exfoliate lightly with a mitt to fade the colour

3. Moisturise the area with Crème de la Crème

4. Wait 12–24 hours

5. Reapply a fresh layer of tan, focusing on blending rather than saturating the area

6. Switch to natural deodorant moving forward

After one or two exfoliations, the green colour will lift.

Will Every Aluminium Deodorant Cause Green Discolouration?

Not always — but the risk is unpredictable.

Some factors increase the chances:

• Hot weather

• High sweat levels

• Strong antiperspirant formulations

• Applying tan too closely after shaving

• Applying tan over deodorant

• Not cleansing thoroughly before tanning

• Using heavy, gel-like products

Because aluminium sits inside the pores, not just on top of the skin, you can’t completely remove it even with showering.

Switching to natural deodorant is the only complete solution.

Why This Matters for Professional Spray Tans Too

Professional spray tan technicians frequently see green reactions in the underarm area. This is one of the most common prep mistakes clients make before salon tanning.

Many salons now actively tell clients:

• Do not wear deodorant before your spray tan

• Avoid aluminium-based products for at least a day

• Arrive with clean, product-free skin

Educating customers through your Naked Tan blog strengthens brand trust and reduces complaints.

Recommended Routine for Tanning Without Green Underarms

Here’s the simplest, safest tanning routine:

Before Tanning:

• Use Naked Tan Body Cleanser daily

• Switch to natural deodorant

• Exfoliate underarms gently

• Ensure the area is product-free before tanning

During Tanning:

• Use a small amount of mousse under the arms

• Blend towards the sides of the chest

• Avoid applying directly into the crease of the underarm

After Tanning:

• Avoid deodorant until the tan has fully developed

• Use a natural deodorant only

• Maintain skin hydration with Crème de la Crème

This ensures even, bronze results every time.

Aluminium and Fake Tan Don’t Mix — Natural Deodorant Is the Better Choice

If you want flawless tan development, especially around the underarms, switching to a natural deodorant is one of the easiest and most effective changes you can make. Aluminium-based deodorants react with DHA, causing green tones, patchiness and uneven fading — even if you prep well.

Natural deodorants support better tan adhesion, prevent discolouration and keep the skin in optimal condition for smooth, even tanning.

Pair a natural deodorant with Naked Tan Body Cleanser and proper prep, and you’ll dramatically improve your results — whether you self-tan at home or get professional spray tans in the salon.