We Tried 35+ of the Best Deodorants for Women—Only 13 Kept Us Dry & Fresh

Deodorants and Antiperspirants We Also Tested

We tested over 35 women’s deodorants and antiperspirants, but only 13 impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some of these deodorant's and antiperspirant's features, they ultimately didn't meet our rigorous testing requirements to be selected as top picks.

• Secret’s Stress Response Clinical Strength Deodorant and Antiperspirant effectively reduced our odor and sweat. However, we didn't like that it left behind a noticeable white streak on our shirt that we found difficult to clean.
• Tom's Coconut Lavender Antiperspirant Deodorant did a good job of minimizing odor. But, we didn't like its sticky feeling and that it easily transferred to our clothing.

What to Look for When Shopping for Women's Deodorants

• Antiperspirants vs. Deodorants: Antiperspirants are designed to block sweat, while deodorants are designed to mask odor and may also absorb excess moisture, says Garshick. She adds that products can be antiperspirants, deodorants, or combinations of both. Select a product that works best for your needs.
• Ingredients: Aluminum-containing products are thought to be the most effective at reducing sweat, but many other ingredients can be included, such as baking soda, magnesium, essential oils, shea butter, witch hazel, and more, says Garshick. Magnesium may help neutralize body odor by balancing pH, but it won’t prevent sweat. Baking soda can balance pH levels to reduce odor and help absorb excess moisture, says Garshick. Look for a deodorant or antiperspirant with ingredients intended to address your main concerns, whether that's sweat, odor control, or both.
• Application Type: Deodorants and antiperspirants come in various forms, including solid sticks, gels, creams, powders, and wipes. Choose a product that will be the most convenient for you, says Garshick. Keep in mind that solid white sticks tend to transfer to clothing the easiest.
• Strength and Longevity: Deodorants and antiperspirants may be labeled as clinical strength when the formula contains higher levels of aluminum than traditional strength formulas, says Penzi. If you have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), you may want to consider clinical-strength options. If you have sensitive skin, choose aluminum-free products. Natural deodorants and antiperspirants typically don’t provide the same long-lasting protection that clinical strength products do.
• Scent: Some deodorant products are fragrance-free, while others contain fragrances that can help mask body odors. You might want to avoid fragrances if you have sensitive skin, as these can irritate skin, worsen eczema, or cause allergic reactions, says Penzi.

How We Tested the Women’s Deodorants

To find the best women's deodorants and antiperspirants, we tested over 35 products in our Lab and at home, wearing them while working out and in our daily routines. When testing deodorants for women, we evaluate each product based on the following key criteria.

• Efficacy: To evaluate each product's efficacy, we apply it as directed to clean, dry armpits. We then engage in physical activity for at least 15 minutes, paying attention to whether we start feeling sweaty or smelling odor. We also reevaluate sweat and odor after 24 hours. We prioritize long-lasting, effective products.
• Scent: If a product is scented, we assess whether it's pleasant or overpowering. Throughout the 24-hour testing period, we pay attention to how the scent changes. Does it fade away or stay the same over time?
• Texture: We evaluate each product's texture by focusing on how it feels upon application. Does it absorb quickly? Does it dry quickly? Does it leave a sticky or tacky feeling? We prioritize deodorants that have a nice texture and dry or absorb quickly.
• Transfer Resistance: During testing, we observe whether the deodorant leaves behind any white streaks or transfers onto our clothing. To what extent does the product transfer onto our clothing? If so, are the stains easily removed?
• Value: To determine a product's value, we don't check the price until after it has been evaluated in all other key categories. Would we recommend it to loved ones? We prioritize options whose quality exceeds their value.
  

Our Experts

During our research, testing, and reporting for this story, we consulted with four dermatologists. Some, like Garshick, provided insights into the concerns regarding aluminum in deodorants. Others, like Penzi, offered guidance on identifying the appropriate active and inactive ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants tailored to various user needs. Additionally, we sought expert advice to direct our research and testing, helping us to identify key features to look for and avoid.

• Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan, New York, and Englewood, New Jersey, and assistant professor of dermatology at Cornell University
• Lauren Penzi, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Long Island, New York
• Yolanda C. Holmes, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and surgeon in Washington, D.C.
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan, New York, and associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

Are deodorants with aluminum bad for you?

When used in deodorants, aluminum helps block sweat glands. Some people have concerns that aluminum may cause Alzheimer's disease or breast cancer, but Holmes says there is no scientific link between aluminum and these conditions.

Do deodorants expire?

Deodorants and antiperspirants have a shelf life and may last between one and three years. Check the expiration date on your deodorant, which is typically located on the label or the bottom of the product.

Is spray or stick deodorant better?

The choice between a spray or stick deodorant is completely up to personal preference, says Garshick. It’s most important to choose a product that’s easy and pleasant to use.

How often should you apply deodorant if you sweat a lot?

It’s best to apply deodorant in the morning and reapply as needed throughout the day, says Garshick. To get the most out of an antiperspirant, you should apply it to dry skin at night before going to bed.

What's the best deodorant to stop sweaty armpits?

If sweat is your main concern, a clinical-strength antiperspirant may be the best option. While deodorants help minimize odor, antiperspirants focus more on controlling sweat.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the associate editor for Verywell Fit. Whether focusing on workout gear, apparel, or other products, she's dedicated to providing recommendations based on thorough research and testing. For this article, Gabrielle looked over the test results from our lab to help compile our top picks.