Using the wrong deodorant just plain stinks.
I don't know about you, but I've often found myself overwhelmed by the endless varieties of deodorants and antiperspirants — and combos — at my local drugstore. I stand there thinking, How am I supposed to figure out the best one for me? Should I get an antiperspirant or a deodorant? What the heck is the difference? What if something in the ingredients irritates my sensitive skin? I know I need something that lasts all day whether I’m at the office or enjoying an afternoon at the park, so picking the right product is crucial.
To help me get the answers I needed (and I'm assuming the answers you need, too), I tapped a panel of board-certified dermatologists to help explain. They ran me through the ropes, sharing which ingredients are the best options for reducing stink or combating sweat and what someone with sensitive skin should avoid. I learned that once you understand the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant and how your needs relate to those differences, finding the ideal product is actually pretty easy.
Based on the information the experts provided, I researched more than 75 types and styles of deodorants, antiperspirants and combinations of both, evaluating each based on application type, ingredients, efficacy and cost. Here you'll find the results of my deep dive into deodorants. From the best overall option to the best all-natural, best antiperspirant, best long-lasting and even best budget selection, there's a product that's bound to meet your needs. Keep reading to learn which ones made the cut as the best deodorants and antiperspirants of 2025.
Update, Dec. 23, 2024: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for the best deodorant remains unchanged.
Cost: $16 | Active ingredient: Aluminum sesquichlorohydrate 18% | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Clean, Fresh, Marine, Bold and Neutral | Longevity: Up to 96 hours
Degree is one of the most popular, well-known antiperspirant brands on the market and for good reason: The stuff works.
Unlimited by Degree is a new dry spray antiperspirant-deodorant hybrid that keeps you stink-free for up to 96 hours. That's four days! It features the brand's exclusive SmartAdapt technology, which adapts and responds to your body to create a barrier against sweat and odor. This micro-barrier responds to movement, heat and stress, activating in the process. So you'll get extra protection during moments when you need it the most (like when you're at the gym).
While Degree does have gender-specific deodorants, Unlimited is a unisex antiperspirant. Five different scents are available that range from clean and airy to bold and warm. And if you're not up for a dry spray, it also comes in a solid stick.
Cost: $18 with subscription; $30 one-time purchase | Active ingredient: Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly 18% | Scents available: Trailblazer, Coastline, Hudson and Night Market | Longevity: 24 hours
Helmm antiperspirant and deodorant, "designed for the modern man," offers three formulas with four fresh scents to choose from. Along with the antiperspirant/deodorant combination, there are two aluminum-free options: the Sport deodorant stick — made with sodium stearate — and the Natural deodorant stick, which contains sodium hydroxide and a blend of plant-based ingredients like sunflower seed oil and aloe vera leaf extract. In addition to the high-quality ingredients, we really liked the company's commitment to sustainability, eco-friendly packaging and its subscription-based service that works on your schedule.
You'll first need to purchase a starter kit, which comes with a container and a refill pod, or you can opt for a one-time purchase to test it out. You can then subscribe to get automatic refills every six, seven or eight weeks. Subscriptions also come with a discounted price on both the starter kit and future pod refills.
We do want to point out that the initial cost can be rather expensive, depending on your chosen starter kit, but the refills are $14-$18 regardless of the starter kit you choose.
There are two different containers available:
Compass Vessel ($30): A rubber-coated container that comes in four colors: black, dark blue, light blue and white. It's priced at $30 for a one-time purchase or $18 for a subscription.
Heritage Vessel ($80-$100): Made of metal and hand-stitched leather, it comes in black or brown. By subscribing to the service, you can get a discounted price of $65-$85.
Refill pods cost $18, but if you opt for a subscription, the cost per refill is $14.
Cost: $5-$7 | Active ingredient: Aluminum (aluminum sesquichlorohydrate 25% | Available for men and women: Yes | Scents available: For women: Powder Fresh, Shower Fresh and Unscented; for men: Unscented | Longevity: 48 hours
If you're looking for serious perspiration protection at an affordable price, the Mitchum Triple Odor Defense Antiperspirant is a great option.
Formulated with over 20% aluminum, it's designed to block odor from the three most common culprits: heat, motion and stress. A solid stick or a gel version is available — personally, I'm partial to solid deodorants since they tend to dry faster and without gunky residue, but reviewers for the gel formula note that it's quick-drying and doesn't leave you feeling like a sticky mess.
Despite the limited scent options — three scents for women and one for men (unscented) — this antiperspirant leaves you smelling fresh and clean, and, most importantly, ensures that you stay sweat- and stink-free for 48 hours. This one is hard to beat when it comes to getting the most bang for your budgeted buck.
Cost: $34 for 2 | Active ingredients: Coconut oil, tapioca starch and magnesium carbonate (Dead Sea salt) | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Lavender & Lemon, Cedar & Vanilla, Cannabis & Green Tea, Cardamom & Ginger, Rose & Vanilla, Citrus & Vetiver, Coconut & Lime, Sandalwood & Black Pepper, Raspberry & Mandarin, Chamomile & Bergamot (limited edition) and Unscented | Longevity: All day
Many deodorant brands on the market specifically label their products for men and women, but they all contain mostly the same core ingredients. The only real difference comes in the form of fragrance; men's deodorants tend to smell fresh, musky or earthy; women's deodorants tend to smell floral, fruity or summery.
With a total of 10 different scents to choose from, Each & Every is a true unisex deodorant. Choose a light and airy scent, such as Rose & Vanilla, a strong and rich scent, such as Sandalwood & Black Pepper, or something more unusual, such as Cannabis & Green Tea. If you're sensitive to smell or don't want your deodorant messing with your fragrance, there's also an unscented option.
Formulated without aluminum, parabens, baking soda or synthetic fragrances, Each & Every Natural is the ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. It's packed with natural ingredients, such as coconut oil, Dead Sea salt, tapioca starch and essential oils. Each & Every Natural also has the "Verified" seal of approval from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), meaning that it does not contain any harsh chemicals, and the company is fully transparent about ingredients and practices safe and sustainable manufacturing. You can trust that the ingredients in this deodorant are safe, clean and natural.
Cost: $27 | Active ingredient: Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly 15.40% | Scent available: Cashmere Mist | Longevity: All day
Deodorant might not be the most glamorous beauty product on your vanity, but it's probably the one that gets the most use. So, if you're looking for an easy way to pamper yourself every day, try swapping out your drugstore deodorant for one of the top luxury antiperspirants on the market: Donna Karan Cashmere Mist.
Beloved by TikTok, this cult classic is worth the hype. It's an antiperspirant and deodorant, which means it works to reduce both odor and sweat. It's formulated with aluminum to block sweat, but the specific aluminum compound used (aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly) is gentler on your skin than many other aluminum compounds. There's also an aluminum-free version available that uses cornstarch, coconut oil and magnesium hydroxide, but it's worth noting that it won't work as well in terms of keeping you dry without the aluminum.
Still, no matter which version you choose, you'll end up smelling great, thanks to the scent. Each stick has the famous Cashmere Mist fragrance, which has a light and fresh scent with hints of jasmine, lily of the valley, and sandalwood. So, unlike your typical deodorant, it smells more like perfume. It's also a personal favorite of former senior health editor April McCormick: "Hands down Donna Karan Cashmere Mist is one of the best combo deodorant and antiperspirant I've ever used. It keeps me dry and feeling fresh all day, and the scent is heavenly. It's worth every penny and lasts a very long time."
Cost: $22 for 2 | Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, zinc ricinoleate, tamanu oil and coconut oil | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Santal Bloom, Pink Beach, Island Orchid, Exotic Pulp, Seascape, Lush Greens, Lagoona, Black Tide and Fragrance-free | Longevity: 24 hours
While antiperspirants can last for 24 hours or longer, it's difficult to find an aluminum-free deodorant with the same staying power. That's why we're so impressed with the Saltair Skincare Deodorant.
It's an all-natural, vegan and paraben-free deodorant that actually works. In clinical trials, 97% of participants found that one application held up throughout the entire day. What's more, participants who used the product saw noticeable improvements in skin discoloration and texture. That's because the Saltair deodorant uses salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate, soften and brighten skin.
It also contains coconut oil and calophyllum inophyllum oil — commonly known as tamanu oil — which has a number of skin care benefits. Like most nut oils, it's highly moisturizing and is often used to help treat eczema, psoriasis and irritation. On top of that, both coconut and tamanu oil have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties.
To help combat sweat and odor, Saltair uses zinc ricinoleate rather than harsh ingredients like baking soda or alcohol, so it's safe for all skin types. Of course, it's worth noting that it's a deodorant, so it won't be as powerful as an antiperspirant. So, although it's long-lasting, if you exercise or work up a sweat, you'll probably need to reapply.
Cost: $14-$16 | Active ingredients: Coconut oil, arrowroot powder, kaolin clay and baking soda | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Vanilla + Citrus, Lavender, Geranium, Blue Tansy, Charcoal, Bergamot + Eucalyptus and Unscented | Longevity: All day
If you have sensitive skin, you'll likely find a natural deodorant to be your best bet because the aluminum in antiperspirants tends to be irritating. Primally Pure is an organic, all-natural deodorant that is made specifically for sensitive skin. It uses simple, safe ingredients like tallow from grass-fed cows, white kaolin clay, coconut oil and arrowroot powder to neutralize odors. Although it contains a small amount of baking soda, it's naturally mined and has a finer grain than traditional baking soda, so it's less abrasive and won’t cause irritation.
There are nine scents to choose from, including several gender-neutral options: Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Vanilla + Citrus, Charcoal, Bergamot + Eucalyptus, and Unscented. However, the scented deodorants use essential oils for fragrance, so if you have extra-sensitive skin, it's a good idea to try the unscented deodorant first, which is free of any fragrance additives.
Cost: $20 | Active ingredients: Probiotics, spirulina, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, tapioca starch, magnesium hydroxide, baking soda and coconut oil | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Santal & Vetiver, Bergamot & Hinoki, Black Rose & Oud and Neroli & Basil | Longevity: All day
If you've been on Instagram or TikTok lately, chances are you've seen the viral deodorant from Salt & Stone called the Natural Deodorant. It's crafted with all-natural, good-for-your-body ingredients like probiotics, magnesium and coconut oil. It uses antioxidant-rich seaweed and spirulina to protect and soothe irritated skin, while hyaluronic acid helps gently exfoliate and brighten your underarms. But perhaps more impressive, it contains probiotics, which work to balance the skin's microbiome and prevent odor.
Salt & Stone's Natural deodorant is gender-neutral and comes in four unique and sophisticated scents, such as Black Rose & Oud, which have notes of lily, mahogany, amber and black rose. There’s no fragrance-free option, but there is a gel formula for sensitive skin.
Cost: $25 for 2 | Active ingredient: Aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly 20% | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Barca, Clear Sky, and Limitless | Longevity: 24 hours
If you need something with serious sweat protection, Duradry's AM Antiperspirant stick is a clinical-strength antiperspirant-deodorant combo that was made to treat hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating.
It contains 20% aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly, which is the maximum strength for that aluminum compound allowed by the FDA in OTC antiperspirants. Of course, that might be too drying and irritating for some, but if you have hyperhidrosis or are someone who sweats a lot, this product is worth a try.
There are four gender-neutral scent options available that range from clean and powdery to warm and earthy. It's priced at less than $15, but you can save even more if you opt to subscribe to the auto-delivery service ($13). You can choose to have subscriptions delivered monthly or every three or six months.
Cost: $31 | Active ingredients: Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly 11.25% | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Longevity: All day
Have you ever noticed a product labeled 'unscented' that definitely still has a smell? If so, you're not alone — we have, too. That’s why we love the DERMAdoctor Total Nonscents Ultra-Gentle Brightening Antiperspirant for a truly fragrance-free deodorant. It's a water-based antiperspirant that's extremely gentle and non-irritating, not to mention completely unscented — so if you find most antiperspirants too harsh, this is one to try.
Something else that sets this DERMAdoctor Total Nonscents apart from the pack is that it is a roll-on antiperspirant with only six ingredients. To put it into context, even "natural" deodorants tend to have at least 10 ingredients.
While the price point is on the higher side, we believe it's more than worth it if you have sensitive skin — or a sensitive nose — and need an active aluminum ingredient.
Cost: $26 | Active ingredients: Diatomaceous earth and tapioca starch | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Nº Green, Third Rose, Santalum, Cedar Flora, California and Neroli | Longevity: All day
The Corpus Naturals Deodorant Stick is another social media viral product that's worth the hype. It's an all-natural, vegan and cruelty-free deodorant that's made without aluminum, baking soda or synthetic fragrance. Instead, it uses vegetable-derived enzymes and plant-based ingredients, such as diatomaceous earth and tapioca starch to kill odor-causing bacteria.
But the best part is the look and feel. The deodorant stick comes in a chic, pistachio green container that looks incredibly elegant on your dresser. It's a water-based gel formula that glides on smoothly leaving no annoying white marks. Then there's the smell — Corpus Naturals only uses naturally sourced fragrance from essential oils and plant isolates, and the results are incredible.
There are six scents available, and they all smell amazing. The scents are subtle, long lasting and gender neutral — plus, if you can't decide, you can get a mini set of three or six to find the best fragrance for you.
Cost: $15.30 | Active ingredients: Coconut oil and sage oil | Available for men and women: Gender-neutral | Scents available: Original, Driftwood, Charcoal and Beach | Longevity: All day
Kopari Aluminum-Free Coconut Deodorant is a great starting point for kids thanks to it being a non-toxic, plant-based and all-around skin-friendly deodorant. The all-natural formula is free from aluminum, parabens, sulfates and baking soda, making it safe, clean and gentle on children's skin. Kopari uses coconut and sage oil to keep you smelling and feeling good. Additionally, the coconut and sage oils are antimicrobial and antibacterial, which eliminate and neutralize body odor while simultaneously moisturizing and soothing the skin.
When searching for the best antiperspirant and deodorant for you, keep the following important factors in mind.
Understanding the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant is everything. Antiperspirants block sweat with aluminum salts, while deodorants mask odor with antibacterial ingredients like baking soda or propylene glycol. So, if you use only deodorant but you sweat a lot, you might find yourself with wet underarms. And if you use only an antiperspirant, you'll stay dry but may notice some body odor. A combination antiperspirant deodorant is ideal, but you might not need both.
While all antiperspirants contain aluminum, the quality of aluminum can vary. The FDA has approved 18 different aluminum compounds for use in antiperspirants, and some are more gentle on the skin than others. Dr. Tushar Dabade, a board-certified dermatologist, notes that "prescription antiperspirants have a higher percentage of aluminum chloride than nonprescription. Prescription antiperspirants may work a little bit better for some people but occasionally can cause irritation." Similarly, deodorants have a range of strengths. If you have sensitive skin, allergies or eczema, you might want to avoid irritants like triclosan, propylene glycol and alcohol.
Deodorants and antiperspirants come in a variety of application types. Each type has pros and cons, but the best one for you will depend on your personal preference.
Solid: The most common type (and my go-to) is a solid stick with a powdery, smooth consistency. Solid deodorants tend to dry quickly but can also leave some residue. If that's a concern, you can opt for an invisible solid that has the same consistency but goes on clear.
Roll-on: Roll-on deodorants are liquid and have a rotating ball applicator that contours to your underarm. They're usually smaller, go on clear and don't leave any white marks behind. The downside is that they take time to dry, can feel sticky and can cause some skin dryness.
Spray: Aerosol deodorants dry quickly and offer a mess-free, convenient application. However, they're also bulkier and tend to deplete faster.
Gel: Gel deodorants typically come in the same type of container as solid sticks but have a thick, liquid consistency. Gels can be messier and take longer to dry but generally go on clear, without leaving residue.
Cream: Like gel, cream deodorants have a semi-liquid consistency, but they're typically thicker and smoother. You apply cream deodorants with your fingers instead of using the container, so they are messy to apply but provide more moisture for the skin compared with other application options.
Wipe: Wipes offer speed and convenience, but they can be pricier because you're only using a wipe once.
While application type comes down to preference — the best product is the one you will use — keep in mind that our board-certifed dermatologist Dr. Monika Kaniszewska cautions that aerosols and wipes may not be as effective as thicker gels or creams that tend to stay on the skin and absorb better.
Strength only applies to antiperspirants, not deodorants. You've likely seen some labeled "clinical strength," which means it contains a higher percentage of aluminum, typically 20%. That's the maximum amount of aluminum an over-the-counter antiperspirant can contain, per the FDA. A clinical strength antiperspirant can be more effective and last longer than others, perfect if you have hyperhidrosis, enjoy intense workouts sessions or go hiking in the summer heat. Natural aluminum-free deodorants may not last all day or be as effective at keeping you dry. Ann Cameron Schieber, a physician assistant at Advanced Dermatology in Chicago, stresses that "everyone's needs for deodorants and antiperspirants are different. What lasts for 24 hours for one person might not last for 24 hours for the next."
The type of scent you want will depend on what you like. Some people might prefer fresh, clean, powdery scents, while others may want something rich and warm, floral or earthy. Another thing to consider is what's available — some brands offer a range of scents, while others have only a few options. And not every deodorant brand offers an unscented version. Fragrance can also cause skin irritation, so if you have sensitive skin, a fragrance-free deodorant may be a better fit.
Drugstore deodorants typically cost between $5 and $15, while luxury, high-end deodorants can cost upwards of $25 to $40. With some luxury deodorants, you're paying for the brand name, but the higher price also often reflects high-end packaging, quality ingredients and more decadent fragrance options.
To find the best deodorants and antiperspirants, we first spoke to a panel of dermatologists and their physician assistants to determine what to look for and what to avoid. All agreed that the most important consideration is a product's ingredients, so we spent hours comparing ingredient lists of over 75 products from popular drugstore brands and luxury brands, as well as lesser-known brands with high-quality products. We also spent time looking at the latest scientific research available on the subject.
For antiperspirants, we looked at the type and percentage of aluminum salt used along with the inactive ingredients and prioritized those without ethyl alcohol, parabens or harsh irritants. For aluminum-free deodorants, we looked for products with natural, plant-based ingredients.
In our search to find the best deodorants of 2025, we put a wide range of products to the test, including deodorants for men, women, individuals with sensitive skin and products that are made of strictly natural ingredients or that are aluminum-free. While not every product could make our top list, here are some of the other deodorants we liked:
Kaniszewska tells us in the simplest terms, "Deodorants mask the odor, while antiperspirants prevent you from sweating." It's a basic difference that comes down to one key ingredient.
Antiperspirants are formulated with aluminum salts, which work by forming a temporary plug in the sweat ducts — specifically the eccrine glands — thus preventing you from sweating, explains Dr. Amy Forman Taub, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Advanced Dermatology in the Chicago area. "What sets different antiperspirants apart is which salt the product is formulated with and its concentration. While aluminum salts can be irritating, aluminum sesquichlorohydrate is generally less irritating — and less effective — than products that contain aluminum chloride, which is often found in prescription-strength antiperspirants," says Taub.
As such, the Food and Drug Administration classifies deodorants as cosmetic products, whereas it classifies antiperspirants as drugs and regulates them accordingly.
There are plenty of myths surrounding the safety of aluminum-based antiperspirants. Some suggest that aluminum can cause various ailments and disorders, most notably Alzheimer's disease and breast cancer. However, there is no evidence that antiperspirants cause any health concerns, including finding no link between antiperspirant use and breast cancer.
Dr. Fara Kamangar, dermatologist and founder of DermGPT, considers aluminum-based antiperspirants extremely safe and effective. Dr. Zenovia Gabriel, a board-certified dermatologist, agrees but adds that there is a risk of skin irritation for those with allergies or sensitive skin.
Many women turn to men's deodorant thinking that the products are stronger or more powerful, but that's another myth.
"The active odor-fighting ingredients are actually the same," says Dr. Samuel Hetz, medical director of Concept Medical. Instead, he says, the difference usually comes down to fragrance. "Men's products tend to take on a stronger, muskier scent, while women's are often lighter and more floral." Because of that, men's deodorant can often seem like it works better. "A more potent scent better masks odors," he says, explaining that added scents tend to become stronger and more noticeable when you sweat.
Although most people apply deodorant first thing in the morning, that may not be the most effective option. "Antiperspirants are actually best applied before bedtime," says Kamangar. At night, your body temperature is lower and your underarm area is drier, so antiperspirant can penetrate your pores more easily, allowing it to work better.
However, that's only the case for antiperspirants. If you use an aluminum-free deodorant, apply it in the morning. Additionally, Kamangar advises applying deodorant after your morning shower when your skin is clean and dry. "This can help ensure better adhesion and effectiveness of the deodorant throughout the day."
Antiperspirants should really only be applied once a day, says Kamangar, adding that because of the aluminum, applying more often can increase the risk of skin irritation. Deodorant, however, is a different story. Since there's no active ingredient, you can reapply as often as needed throughout the day in order to control odor. Your activity can play a role. "If you exercise or take a shower, it's advised to reapply," says Gabriel.
Dr. Samuel Hetz, medical director of Concept Medical
Dr. Fara Kamangar, board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermGPT
Dr. Tushar Dabade, board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Monika Kaniszewska, board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Amy Forman Taub, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Advanced Dermatology
Dr. Zenovia Gabriel, board-certified dermatologist
Ann Cameron Schieber, a physician assistant at Advanced Dermatology
