Lume Review: Does It Offer More Than Just Deodorant?

Lume is a personal care brand that offers products to help your body stay odor-free by providing various skin-friendly deodorants. The brand’s offerings may help mask body odor that could arise from different causes, such as excessive sweating, hormonal shifts, or medical conditions.

Lume also emphasizes commitment to clean ingredients, as its deodorants are marketed to be free from harmful compounds like aluminum, baking soda, parabens, and artificial fragrances.

In this exclusive review, we cover everything you need to know about Lume, including its advantages, product lineup, limitations, and more. By the end, you should have a clear idea of whether Lume could be a valuable addition to your personal care routine.

About Lume

Developed by Dr. Shannon Klingman (an OB/GYN), Lume offers pH-optimized deodorants that could help reduce body odor. The deodorants by Lume claim to be gentle for most sensitive skin areas, including underarms, underboobs, belly folds, feet, and even intimate areas.

According to its official site, Lume’s deodorants are clinically tested to control odor for up to 72 hours, providing long-lasting freshness. They may work by inhibiting odor-causing bacteria from breaking down fluids like sweat, urine, and semen, thereby stopping odor before it even forms.

Lume’s product lineup features products like body washes, deodorants, and wipes. One of its bestselling products includes the Starter Pack Bundle, which comprises one unit each of a Deo stick, a Deo spray, and Deo Wipes, alongside a free mini body wash, providing comprehensive odor protection.

Lume Bestsellers

1. Deodorant Plus Sweat Control

   Lume’s Deodorant Plus Sweat Control is an antiperspirant stick that may help protect against both sweat and odor. The formula features mandelic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) with antibacterial and exfoliating properties, which could help reduce the presence of odor-causing bacteria in your body.

   The makers state that Lume’s Deodorant Plus Sweat Control sticks include aluminum sesquichlorohydrate. The compound may help minimize moisture retention in your skin, which could help decrease underarm wetness. It also contains skin-soothing agents like panthenol and caffeine, ensuring your skin remains comfortable and irritation-free.

   Lume’s Deodorant Plus Sweat Control is free from common irritants like baking soda, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and talc, making it safe for use on sensitive skin. Compact and travel-friendly, Lume Deodorant Plus Sweat Control costs $14.99 for a 2.6 oz stick.

2. Spray Deodorant

   Lume’s Spray Deodorant may provide long-lasting odor protection and comes in a lightweight, invisible mist spray can (3.6oz). It works by targeting and reducing odor-causing bacteria on your skin, helping to keep you fresh and odor-free throughout the day.

   The 360° spray nozzle could ensure easy and even application, allowing you to spray hard-to-reach areas like underboobs, thigh creases, belly folds, and feet with ease. Lume Spray Deodorant comes in unscented, clean tangerine, lavender sage, and soft powder fragrances.

   As per the makers, Spray Deodorant utilizes an eco-friendly, ozone-safe propellant, reflecting Lume’s commitment to sustainability. The clear mist of the spray deodorant typically does not leave behind any residue on the skin and has a low-alcohol formula.

3. Cream Tube Deodorant

   Lume’s Cream Tube Deodorant offers a water-based deodorant formula for precise application and odor control. It comes in a portable 3.0 oz tube pack that may allow for mess-free use anywhere odor occurs, including underarms, private areas, feet, belly folds, etc.

   Besides mandelic acid, Lume Cream Tube Deodorant contains skin-nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, cocoa seed butter, panthenol, and allantoin. These ingredients may work together to soothe and moisturize sensitive areas while maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

   As per its official site, Lume Cream Tube Deodorant may deliver over 150 underarm applications or up to 300 uses elsewhere on the body when applied in the recommended pea-sized amount.

4. Cream Stick Deodorant

   Lume’s Cream Stick Deodorant comes in a 2.2 oz twist-up applicator pack. The makers state that you can apply it directly to underarms or dispense for fingertip use on odor-prone areas like the belly button, underboobs, groin, and feet.

   Besides odor control, Lume Cream Stick Deodorant might help support an even skin tone and fade the appearance of hyperpigmentation. The brand Lume claims that Cream Stick Deodorant can also brighten skin and reduce redness.

   The makers state that Lume Cream Stick Deodorant may provide up to 110 applications for the underarm area or 220 for other body areas. Due to its water-based formula, Cream Stick Deodorant may absorb quickly, leave no residue, and may not stain fabrics.

5. Lume Starter Pack

   The Lume Starter Pack is a curated bundle that may provide you with comprehensive, full-body odor control. It includes one unit each of Lume’s stick deodorant, a spray deodorant, 15 deodorant wipes, and a free mini body wash tube.

Lume Advantages

1. Commitment To Clean, Ethical Formulation

   Lume claims to provide products that are vegan and cruelty-free. Some of its products, like Spray Deodorant, feature an eco-conscious, ozone-safe propellant, highlighting Lume’s focus on sustainability. Lume also markets its products as free from harmful components like aluminum and baking soda.

2. Physician Formulated

   Lume was developed by Dr. Shannon Klingman, a board-certified OB/GYN, who mentions that the Lume products work across the entire body, not just the underarms. The products offered by Lume may provide long-lasting, safe, and effective odor protection without disrupting your skin’s natural microbiome.

3. Designed For Whole-Body Use

   Lume’s deodorant, sticks, and tubes follow a “Whole Body” concept. You can apply Lume products anywhere on the body where odor develops, be it underarms, belly button area, feet, buttocks, vulva, or scrotum.

   All Lume products have a pH-balanced formulation, which is typically safe for sensitive skin, including delicate intimate areas. They are free from baking soda, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates, which may help minimize skin irritation and deliver reliable odor control.

4. Offers A Wide Variety of Application Formats

   Lume offers a versatile product lineup tailored to fit your preferences and routines. Whether you need a targeted application, on-the-go convenience, or extended protection, Lume provides the right format for every situation. For example, Lume’s Solid Stick may be suitable for everyday use and discreet touch-ups throughout the day. For more precise application in areas like folds, feet, and intimate regions, Lume’s Cream Tube may provide effective coverage.

   The Spray Deodorant from Lume offers a no-touch, broad application that’s especially useful for hard-to-reach areas such as the back or buttocks. Lume’s Deodorant Wipes could deliver portable, mess-free odor control, suitable for travel or midday refreshes.

Lume Limitations

1. Limited Fragrance Options for Men

   Lume’s focus on women’s needs has led to a product line that primarily features feminine scents. As a result, men may find the fragrance options limited and lacking in traditionally masculine notes like woody, musky, or sporty tones.

2. Not Readily Available in All Retail Stores

   Lume’s focus on online sales has come at a cost, it’s not found in physical stores. This lack of in-store presence makes it inconvenient for shoppers who prefer to see or try products before buying. It also misses out on impulse purchases and broader visibility, putting Lume at a disadvantage compared to competitors on retail shelves.

Lume Alternatives Brands

1. Schmidt’s

   Schmidt’s is a well-known natural deodorant brand that began in 2010, founded by Jaime Schmidt. Lume, in contrast, is doctor-developed and clinically tested for use on the entire body.

   As per the official website, Schmidt’s product offerings focus on aromatic appeal, using essential oils like bergamot, lime, rose, and vanilla, but they don’t claim whole-body or private-area use.

   The makers of Schmidt’s highlight its Certified Natural status by Ecocert and claim to be vegan and cruelty-free. However, some of Schmidt’s formulas include baking soda-like deodorant sticks, which may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

   On the other hand, Lume is designed for whole-body use, including underarms, feet, and private areas. It uses mandelic acid to lower skin pH and prevent odor without relying on artificial fragrances or masking agents. The makers state that Lume is free from aluminum, baking soda, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and talc, making it a better alternative if you have sensitive skin.

   If you’re looking for a versatile deodorant that’s gentle for sensitive areas and free from common irritants, Lume offers broader functionality, while Schmidt’s could be a good choice if you prefer naturally scented formulas.

2. Crystal

   Crystal claims to offer aluminum-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic deodorant options, made with minimal, non-toxic ingredients and packaged in eco-conscious materials. It also promises to focus on odor-neutralization using mineral salts.

   Crystal offers multiple application formats, including roll-ons, sprays, solid sticks, and the classic mineral stone, along with a variety of scents like Lavender + Rosemary, Coconut + Vanilla, and an Unscented option.

   Lume claims to make pH-balanced formulas, which are clinically tested for whole-body odor control. Its product offerings are designed to be hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin, offering 72-hour odor protection for the whole body. Lume also offers solid sticks, creams, sprays, and wipes that are designed for full-body use.

   CRYSTAL could be suitable for you if you prioritize natural mineral-based ingredients, simple formulations, and global availability. You may consider Lume if you are looking for full-body odor control, sensitive skin compatibility, and a flexible application range.

How Did We Evaluate The Lume?

1. Brand Reputation

   For evaluating Lume’s brand reputation, we looked at its background, history, and consumer feedback from reputable review platforms. We found that Lume’s overall brand reputation is mixed, based on the available reviews and engagement with consumers.

   Lume has not claimed its Trustpilot profile, which means it may not be actively monitoring or responding to customer feedback on the platform. Such a lack of engagement may hinder Lume’s ability to address concerns and build trust with potential buyers.

   On the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Lume holds a B- rating, possibly attributed to 242 complaints filed against the business. These unresolved complaints might create a perception of poor customer service or dissatisfaction.

   Although Lume has a niche in the natural deodorant market, its brand reputation may benefit from more proactive engagement with customers and improvements in addressing complaints.

2. User Reviews

   When evaluating Lume, we carefully considered the customer feedback of Lume across a variety of its products. For example, the fine mist spray of the Lume Whole Body Deodorant was a highlight for many consumers.

   Many users noted a convenient application, especially in situations where quick use was essential, such as during outdoor activities or post-surgery. However, some customers experienced issues with the spray nozzle malfunctioning after a few uses.

   As per the reviews on Amazon, many consumers who used Lume’s Cream Tube Deodorant (Fresh Alpine) noted that its scent was off-putting at first but left a more pleasant fragrance after absorption. However, the unscented version was met with mixed opinions, with some users finding its smell unpleasant.

   Many users appreciated Lume’s Deodorant Plus Sweat Control (Soft Powder) for its ability to control both sweat and odor. Its gentle formula was well-regarded for not causing irritation, although some consumers found its scent to resemble that of Play-Doh.

   Lume’s Whole Body Deodorant Starter Pack was well-received on Amazon. Many consumers appreciated the Starter Pack for its versatility, as the pack provided body wash, wipes, deodorant sticks, and spray. However, a few consumers found the price too steep for the overall value, especially considering mixed opinions about some products in the pack.

3. Value for Money

   For assessing the value for money of Lume products, we compared the pricing and the quantity offered by some Lume products to similar products from brands like Schmidt’s and Crystal. For instance, Lume’s Cream Stick Deodorant is priced at $14.99 for 2.2 oz, which is comparatively more expensive than similar products from the brands mentioned above.

   On the other hand, Schmidt’s Clean Coconut Deodorant Stick is priced at $10.41 for 2.65 oz, offering decent quality at a reasonable cost. Similarly, Crystal’s Unscented Deodorant Stick (4.25 oz) is available for just $6.99, offering even better cost-effectiveness.

   Lume’s Spray Deodorant is priced at $19.99 for one 3.6 oz bottle, which comes with a premium price tag for the amount of product provided. In contrast, Crystal’s Mineral Deodorant Spray costs $13.04 for one 4 oz bottle, providing greater value than Lume.

   While Lume’s products are effective and formulated for long-lasting odor protection, the higher price point means they are less cost-effective compared to its competitors.

   If you prioritize skin-friendly ingredients and unique benefits, Lume might justify the premium price. However, if budget is a major factor, other brands (Crystal and Shmidt’s) may offer better value in terms of quantity and performance for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Lume Offer Fragrance-Free Products?
   Yes, Lume provides unscented products across its categories, like sticks, sprays, and body wash. These products do not contain any added fragrances or scents.
2. Is Lume a Women-Focused Brand Only?
   No, Lume is not just for women. While Lume was marketed with women in mind, its products are typically safe for all genders, including men. However, Lume has created Mando, a subbrand dedicated to providing whole-body deodorant and products for men.
3. Does Lume Offer Refunds?
   Yes, Lume allows customers to return Lume products purchased from its official website within 60 days of purchase. However, the support team at Lume can only issue refunds through either the original payment method or store credit.

Conclusion

Lume claims to solve full-body odor issues, especially in areas often overlooked by traditional deodorants. Its key strengths include doctor-developed formulas, clean ingredients, and a strong message about inclusivity and transparency.

Lume avoids harsh additives like aluminum and baking soda. It also leads with honest communication, which has helped it build trust with its audience.

However, Lume’s focus is mainly on odor control. It doesn’t offer a wide range of personal care products, and not all users may be satisfied with the texture, scent, or effectiveness.