Why some deodorants cost more - and why cheap isn’t always better

Personal care has become synonymous with self-worth and confidence; the humble deodorant stick has evolved from a simple grooming essential into a battleground of branding, ingredients, and invisible trade-offs.

A closer look at supermarket shelves and boutique cosmetic counters reveals a striking disparity: while some deodorants sell for as low as Sh140, others command prices upward of Sh900.

The real question is, what are you paying for?

The price tag paradox

Many consumers believe deodorant is a basic commodity; why pay more when the cheap option works just fine?

But dermatologists, chemists, and consumer advocates are urging buyers to look beyond the surface. The cost of a deodorant often reflects its formulation, brand positioning, environmental impact, and long-term effects on skin health.

“Cheap deodorants often contain harsh ingredients like aluminium chlorohydrate, parabens, and synthetic fragrances,” says Dr. Rina Patel, a dermatologist specialising in skin sensitivity, in a previous interview. “These compounds can cause irritations, allergic reactions, and even hormonal disruptions in some people. Over time, the cost of treating these side effects can outweigh the savings made at the cash register.”

What are you paying for?

1. Ingredients and safety:

Premium deodorants tend to use natural or organic ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, essential oils, and baking soda. They are often free from aluminium, alcohol, and synthetic additives, making them gentler on the skin, especially for people with sensitivities or conditions like eczema.

2. Research and development:

Formulating a natural deodorant that works without relying on aluminium or strong alcohol-based agents is not cheap. Brands invest heavily in R&D to strike a balance between safety, efficacy, and scent longevity.

3. Sustainability and packaging:

Eco-conscious brands often package their deodorants in biodegradable, refillable, or recyclable materials, like glass, a stark contrast to the plastic-heavy, mass-produced sticks. This environmental responsibility comes at a price, but for many consumers, it is a cost worth bearing.

4. Brand image and marketing:

Let us not ignore the power of branding. High-end deodorant lines are often marketed as luxury lifestyle products. Packaging, celebrity endorsements, and boutique retail placement add to the cost, though not necessarily the performance.

Other Topics To Read

• Health
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• dermatologists
• Deodorant
• Odour
• Body odour
• Personal care
• Why some deodorants cost more - and why cheap isn’t always better
• Headlines

The hidden cost of cheap

While a Sh140 deodorant might seem like a steal, the hidden costs can be considerable.

Inexpensive options often wear off faster, leading to frequent reapplications and faster depletion. For people prone to odour or sweating, this could mean using more product and buying more frequently.

Then there is the potential cost to your health. Studies have raised concerns about the long-term use of certain antiperspirants, particularly those containing aluminium compounds, which have been linked to skin issues and ongoing research into possible links to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s, although evidence remains inconclusive.

“I used to buy the cheapest spray on the shelf, but my underarms would burn or itch, and they later turned black,” says 27-year-old Nairobi resident Lilian Mwirigi. “Switching to a natural brand costs more upfront, but my skin feels better and the deodorant lasts me months.”

On the flip side, others are sceptical.

“Some of these brands are charging luxury prices for what’s essentially coconut oil and baking soda,” laughs Mike Muchiri, a fitness trainer. “I just want something that keeps me dry at the gym, I don’t need it to be artisanal or all luxury.”

As with many personal care products, deodorant pricing reflects a blend of science, sustainability, skin care, and style.

The cheap options offer immediate savings but may lead to long-term costs, whether to your health, comfort, or the environment.

So next time you are standing in the deodorant aisle, ask yourself not just how much it costs, but what it is really worth.