The Science Behind AHA Deodorant | Frank + Bare’s Aluminium-Free Odour Control
Frank + Bare Journal
Clinically proven freshness, how fruit derived AHAs stop odour at its source while caring for your skin.
Where Skincare Meets Deodorant.
If you are new to the idea of deodorant as skincare, read our latest journal post, Where Skincare Meets Deodorant , to explore the philosophy behind this shift.
Clinically proven to reduce body odour, that is the science that inspired Frank + Bare. A published clinical study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that maintaining a mildly acidic skin surface, around pH 4.0, led to a significant reduction in body odour among participants.
The researchers confirmed that supporting the skin’s natural acid balance, the same way alpha hydroxy acids, AHAs, do, is an effective and gentle way to keep odour causing bacteria in check.
That discovery inspired us to create what we call our AHA natural skincare deodorant, a formula that goes beyond masking smell to help stop odour at its source while supporting the skin barrier.
By working with your skin’s natural pH instead of against it, our AHA deodorant maintains a healthy acid mantle, encourages balanced microflora, and keeps skin feeling smooth, fresh, and protected throughout the day.
Why Our Formula Is Different
Most natural deodorants rely on baking soda or clays to absorb odour and sweat. While these can work temporarily, they often disrupt the skin’s natural pH and may cause irritation.
Frank + Bare took a different approach. Instead of absorbing sweat, our formula targets the bacteria responsible for odour. By gently maintaining the skin at a slightly acidic pH, we create an environment where those bacteria cannot thrive, offering long lasting freshness that supports your skin instead of stripping it.
The Power of Fruit Acids, AHAs
We use natural fruit acids, AHAs, derived from bilberry, lemon, orange, sugar cane, and sugar maple. These ingredients support the skin’s pH, strengthen the barrier, help reduce irritation, and keep odour at bay.
Because skin is naturally acidic, raising the pH through alkaline ingredients such as baking soda can compromise the protective barrier. Supporting acidity instead preserves balance and comfort.
Designed for Underarms, Suitable Beyond
While originally formulated for underarm use, our AHA deodorant is suitable for other body areas prone to odour, including inner thighs, under the bust, and external intimate feminine and masculine skin.
Because it works by balancing pH rather than blocking sweat, it supports delicate skin while helping reduce odour at the source. Always apply externally only.
Skincare Benefits for the Skin
Think of it as daily skin maintenance for areas that are often overlooked.
- Gentle exfoliation, helps reduce dead skin build up and support smoother texture.
- Brightening support, encourages a more even appearance over time.
- Barrier support, maintains the skin’s natural acid mantle.
- Long lasting freshness, without aluminium or harsh disruption.
A Modern Approach to Natural Deodorant
We believe deodorant should be more than odour protection. It should function as skincare. This is where skincare meets deodorant.
To understand the philosophy behind this shift, read Where Skincare Meets Deodorant .
Shop Frank + Bare’s AHA deodorant and give your skin the intelligent care and odour defence it deserves.
Reference, Hoeger T, Ennen M W, et al. (2015). Significant Reduction of Body Odor in Older People with a pH 4.0 Emulsion. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 37(5), 569 to 573. Research Article
