IT DOESN'T matter who you are or what you do, wearing deodorant is an everyday requirement for living in a modern society. If you're spending any amount of time around other people, it's a common courtesy to manage your body odor. Sweating is, of course, completely normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to be stinky, too.
A good deodorant is your most important tool in the fight against B.O. Body odor is caused by two things: naturally occurring bacteria on the surface of your skin (especially in places like your underarms) and sweat, which the bacteria feed on. Deodorants help reduce the amount of stank-causing bacteria on your skin and they also help control odor by covering it up with a much more pleasant scent. The most important thing to note is that deodorants won’t actually stop sweat; that’s an antiperspirant’s job thanks to the addition of aluminum which physically blocks sweat glands. You’ll notice this list doesn’t include any antiperspirants for that reason.
However, sweating is natural and just because you sweat doesn’t mean you’ll automatically stink. Many people avoid the aluminums in antiperspirants in favor of deodorants that still get the job done without reducing sweat. Deodorants can also be ideal for people with sensitive skin thanks to the addition of gentle, often natural ingredients. Choosing between a deodorant and antiperspirant is a personal choice (and, for the record, you can switch back and forth), so find one that fits your lifestyle and give it a shot. Might we suggest starting with this list of the best.
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Oars & Alps Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Oars & Alps Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Wide array of fresh, unique scents
Cons
- Some reviewers say it requires multiple applications
| Key Ingredients | Aloe, corn starch |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the citrusy California Coast scent |
Oars + Alps is a powerful natural deodorant that absorbs odor, while botanical ingredients nourish the skin. It’s vegan and cruelty-free with no alcohol, aluminum, parabens, sulfates, gluten or phthalates. Their proprietary alpine caribous moss ingredient sourced from the Arctic Circle in Northern Finland is antioxidant-rich and boosts elasticity while guarding against environmental hazards like pollution and inflammation.
We found that some scents last longer than others (California Coast being one of them). It’s worth trying a few before committing to the one that you like best and works best with your unique body chemistry. We also love that there is sensitive skin version for those with extra sensitive skin, but we personally didn’t see much difference between the two. If you’re not sure which you need, try both.
Chanel Bleu De Chanel Deodorant
Chanel Bleu De Chanel Deodorant
Pros
- Invigorating citrus smell
- Layer under matching fragrance for all-day freshness
Cons
- Expensive
| Key Ingredients | Fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Citrus, cedar and sandalwood |
If scent is important to you, this deodorant from Chanel will most certainly win your favor. It's a luxury deodorant, so the price tag is going to reflect that, but the quality is apparent in the complexity of the formula. Some guys may even find that they can skip cologne when they wear this deodorant, saving them time and money.
The main draw of this deodorant is the scent. It’s distinctive and perfectly matches the spray you probably already know (and maybe wear). The stick is clear and lasts a long time because the scent is so strong. Think of this as an extension of the cologne spray and use it like you would a spray.
GUESS Effect Deodorizing Body Spray
Pros
- Woody, sophisticated scent
- Easy spray-on application
Cons
- Can be easy to use too much
- Scent can fade quickly
| Key ingredients | Fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Grapefruit, mandarin, clary sage, musk, vanilla |
Named in our Grooming Awards, this body spray is effective as a deodorizer and a cologne. The spray is versatile enough to wear to and from the gym and for everyday use. And because it's only $10, you can buy two and throw one in your gym bag for on-the-go use.
Testing Notes: The scent starts out strong like a cologne but can fade quickly. That’s not necessarily a bad thing since it can be easy to apply too much when it comes to body sprays. The scent itself is the same as the Guess Effect cologne so it’s a good compliment if it’s one you already wear—or a cheaper version if you’ve been curious about trying the scent out. Think of this as the same cologne just a different vehicle for delivery.
Read more: Best Gym Bags
Helmm The Starter Kit
Helmm The Starter Kit
Pros
- Refillable packaging helps reduce plastic waste
- Multiple formulas to choose from
Cons
- Expensive
| Key Ingredients | Fragrance, Propylene Glycol, botanical extracts (natural deodorant only) |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the fresh Hudson scent |
HELMM's proprietary formula is made without the use of parabens, phthalates or sulfates. Its design is super sleek—and the best part? You have the option to subscribe to a delivery box service for new cartridges. You get to choose from four premium, quality scents that were developed and crafted by an award-winning French perfumer.
The thing we love most about HELMM is that there are three different formulas to choose from: antiperspirant, sport deodorant and natural deodorant. We found the sport deodorant to be best for us; the natural version is great for mild sweaters, but we tend to be a little too sweaty for light protection like that. If you’re not sure which is best for you, it’s worth trying both formulas before committing to a subscription plan.
Read more: Best Subscription Boxes for Men
Offcourt Performance Body Spray
Offcourt Performance Body Spray
Pros
- Available in a wide array of scents
- Has prebiotic ingredients that proactively eliminate odor
- Available in a multi-pack
Cons
- Some users might want a stronger scent
| Key Ingredients | Fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the Coconut Water and Sandalwood scent the best |
Another spray deodorant that's effective for gym use. OffCourt has a wide array of amazing scents and comes in at a wallet-friendly price. What's unique is the brand uses prebiotics in the spray's formula to help promote good bacteria growth, thus eliminating odor-producing bacteria.
The scents of this body spray are subtle, but that’s kind of the point. You don’t want to completely overwhelm your body with a heavy fragrance and, even though these are on the lighter side, they last a long time thanks to the ability to also help control odor causing bacteria. We haven’t found a body spray that strikes this balance of freshness but subtly before this one and it’s what makes it our favorite.
Bravo Sierra Deodorant
Bravo Sierra Deodorant
Pros
- Contains probiotics to help control bacteria
- Applies completely clear
Cons
- Some reviewers reported irritation
| Key Ingredients | Tapioca starch, diatomaceous earth, aloe juice |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the White Vetiver and Cedarwood |
Sure, tons of brands offer long-lasting deodorants, but when a deodorant has been put to the test by over 1,000 U.S. Special Forces soldiers, you know it’s the real deal to combat odor. BRAVO SIERRA is a new grooming line created with the military to provide eco-friendly essentials for men at a low price that can’t be beat. The whole line is genius and worthy of your hard-earned dollars, but if you’re going to try one item, we’d have to say this aluminum-free deodorant is just the must-have men have been looking for.
Testing Notes: Not only is the scent of this deodorant amazing (fresh but also woody), but we especially love that the stick goes on completely clear, unlike many other deodorants that can leave a chalky or white residue. There are some oils in here that may still stain some clothing, but allow it to dry for a few minutes and you’ll be fine. The scent will last you most of the day, but not forever, so you’ll want to reapply it if you’re going out at night.
Schmidt's Aluminum Free Natural Deodorant
Pros
- Odor protection derived from plants
- Requires only a small amount
Cons
- May leave stains on some clothing
| Key Ingredients | Magnesium, coconut oil, arrowroot powder, hemp seed oil |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the Hemp Seed Oil and Sage best. |
Odor-neutralizing baking soda is common in natural deodorants. But for some people, it can cause redness or even burn, says Dr. Zeichner. This contains magnesium to neutralize odors without causing irritation and leaves your pits smelling like vetiver grass.
This baking soda-free natural deodorant is ideal for anyone who has sensitive skin or has found that other natural deodorants irritate their pits. Often that irritation is liked to the baking soda, which is used to help soak up moisture in deodorants; this formula uses magnesium and arrowroot powder instead. It’s a solid formula, so there is a risk of residue and the high oil content could stain clothing. We found that allowing it to dry on our skin for a few minutes before getting dressed helps minimize that risk.
Native Cucumber Mint Deodorant
Native Cucumber Mint Deodorant
Pros
- Available in a variety of scents
- Contains probiotics to help control bacteria
Cons
- Contains baking soda
| Key Ingredients | Coconut oil, shea butter, magnesium, baking soda, tapioca starch |
|---|---|
| Scent | Many but we like the fresh Eucalyptus and Mint |
When you switch from aluminum-based products, expect a short purging period, says Dr. Zeichner. That’s just your body clearing out aluminum. (It’ll only feel like you’re sweating more.) This minty deodorant contains natural moisturizers like shea butter to keep your underarms smooth.
As far as natural deodorants go, this one is up there with the very best. It does contain baking soda (there is a sensitive skin formula that leaves it out), but the skin conditioning ingredients help a little bit to reduce possible irritation. We found that even though the scent is on the more subtle side, it helps protect from odor for hours. Keep in mind that it’s a solid bar and, since there is a lot of coconut oil in the formula, it may leave stains on some clothes if you don’t let it dry on your pits for a bit after applying.
Dove Men+Care Eucalyptus + Birch Deodorant Dray Spray
Dove Men+Care Eucalyptus + Birch Deodorant Dray Spray
Pros
- Convenient spray formula
- Available in multi-packs
- Contains moisturizing ingredients
Cons
- Aerosol is hard to travel with
- Must shake the can before applying
| Key Ingredients | Fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Fresh and woody eucalyptus and birch |
Beat the summer heat with 48-hour protection, thanks to Dove Men+Care. The powerful-yet-mild formula does wonders for keeping even the sweatiest men dry, without leaving any residue that’ll ruin your summer shirts. Affordable, easy-to-apply, and next-level protection make this option a no-brainer choice for any guy.
What we like most about deodorant sprays is that they’re way easier to apply than sticks—and tend to leave less residue on your clothes in general. Remember to shake the canister before applying, but once you do a few sprays is all you need for long lasting odor protection. We can’t say we completely agree with the 48 hour protections claim; we found the protection time to be a little bit shorter, but this also could depend on how much you sweat and your particular brand of body odor. Even without 48 straight hours, it lasted longer than many others on this list.
Salt and Stone Leon Bridges Natural Deodorant
Salt and Stone Leon Bridges Natural Deodorant
Pros
- Luxurious scent
- Contains probiotics to help control bacteria
Cons
- Contains baking soda
| Key Ingredients | Seaweed extracts, probiotics, hyaluronic acid, tapioca starch |
|---|---|
| Scent | Luxurious rose, vetiver, mahogany and santal. |
Many deodorants lean on scents that evoke freshness and cleanliness, which isn’t a bad thing. This incredible scent, however, has more in common with a fancy cologne than your typical deodorant. It’s infused with rose, vetiver, mahogany and santal to create something completely unique, at least when it comes to deodorant, and truly lasts all day long (it’s strong, but not in a bad way).
Out of all the deodorants we tried, this is the scent we couldn’t get enough of. It’s deep, earthy and woody like your favorite cologne and while it’s strong enough to wear on it’s own, it also compliments a lot of our favorite wood-based fragrances well. We found the formula itself to be gentle, even with the addition of baking soda, but if you have particularly sensitive skin, you may want to patch test before using it (there is also a high concentration of fragrance which may irritate some people). But in terms of fragrance and lasting power, this one is top of the list.
Hume Supernaturals Fragrance Free Deodorant
Hume Supernaturals Fragrance Free Deodorant
Pros
- Sensitive skin friendly
- Contains pre- and probiotics to balance bacteria
- Gentle formula
Cons
- May not be strong enough for heavy sweaters
| Key Ingredients | Diatomaceous earth, silica, lactobacillus ferment, tapioca starch |
|---|---|
| Scent | None |
Most deodorants rely heavily on fragrance to mask body odor (to various degrees of success), but this one is different because there is no fragrance at all. That’s good news for people with sensitive skin who could possibly react to added fragrance or people who just don’t want to smell like, well, anything. Somehow the ingredients in this formula control odor without masking it; ingredients like pre- and probiotics to help balance the skin’s microbiome and control odor-causing bacteria.
Truthfully we were skeptical at first, since most deodorants rely on added fragrance to help mask odor. However, we were blown away with how effective this fragrance-free deodorant works. We detected not a single molecule of BO for hours and yes, even though it could take a couple of applications depending on your unique body chemistry, it managed to keep any stank to minimum all day. Some heavy sweaters or people more prone to body odor might not find it strong enough, but we believe that more the majority of people, it’s the best scent-free option.
Old Spice Swagger Deodorant
Pros
- Clear stick formula
- Scent is strong and lasts a long time
- Easy to find in stores
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
| Key Ingredients | Fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Woody and fresh with a base of sandalwood |
It’s not just the long lasting scent that makes this deodorant stand out. Unlike chalkier solid deodorant bars, this one is completely clear which means it leaves no residue at all on your pits (perfect for tank top season). The scent is strong enough to last all day even for heavy sweaters and, while it won’t reduce actual sweating, it absolutely prevents it from smelling.
This deodorant is ideal for someone that doesn’t want or need sweat reduction (there’s no aluminum in the formula) but still wants the experience of a classic deodorant. It’s not packed with newfangled ingredients and the clear formula applies like the traditional stick you’re probably used to using. We found that the scent is strong enough to last literally all day (though the 24 hour claim from the brand may not be the case for everyone). With one application in the morning, we could still smell it into the night.
Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel
Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel
Pros
- Completely clear formula
- Fragrance-free option
- Skin beneficial ingredients
Cons
- Expensive
- Needs ample time to dry to avoid staining clothes
| Key Ingredients | Lactic acid, niacinamide, mandelic acid, potassium hydroxide |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the subtle eucalyptus scent. |
This easy-to-apply deodorant gel is completely clear, and a little more watery than your typical stick, which makes it way easy to apply and get full coverage with less product needed. It comes in a few different scents, including fragrance-free, but even the scented versions are subtle and not overwhelming. But the best thing about it is the skincare-like ingredients: niacinamide to help reduce dark spots and exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids to keep your pits smooth (it’s especially ideal if you shave or trim your armpit hair).
Not everyone needs exfoliation and dark spot reduction under their arms, but if you shave or trim the hair on your pits, it’s a big plus. The skincare ingredients in the formula help to keep the area smooth and hydrated and the skin tone even. Even if you don’t shave there, this effective, completely clear formula is a dream to use. We found that it does require a bit more dry time than your typical stick, since it’s a bit more liquidy, and if you’re a heavy sweater it may not be strong enough for you, but overall, it’s a great option for most people.
Hello Cream and Fresh Cream Deodorant
Hello Cream and Fresh Cream Deodorant
Pros
- Can be used anywhere on your body
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Easy to apply cream formula
Cons
- Must apply with your fingers
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, alcohol, fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Multiple, but we like the Clean + Fresh Version |
As a human, you probably don’t just sweat in your armpits. Other areas, like your groin, butt, stomach and more can be just as prone to sweat (and therefore BO) than your armpits. If you’re the type of guy who sweats a lot and can use a little freshness on your whole body (*raises hand*) this cream deodorant can be used anywhere on your entire body to help control odor the same way you use it on your pits. It’s not greasy, absorbs quickly, and keeps you fresh for hours and hours.
We found in our testing that at first, it can feel a little weird applying a deodorants to other parts of our bodies other than our armpits, but once you get over the initial weirdness, the benefits far outweigh it. This stuff is more like a lotion that rubs in quickly and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy, but it does create a little bit of a barrier similar to a sunscreen (good news if you’re also putting it in places that tend to chafe). The odor control is effective and long lasting no matter where we put it on our bodies, but it particularly shines below the belt.
Scotch Porter Anti-Odor Wipes
Scotch Porter Anti-Odor Wipes
Pros
- Easy to use wipe formula
- Can be used anywhere on your body
- Offers instant freshness
Cons
- Won’t replace your stick
| Key Ingredients | Aloe, alcohol, fragrance |
|---|---|
| Scent | Fresh and clean |
When you can use a little refresh, these wipes are indispensable. You’re able to use them anywhere on your body from your pits to your feet (yes, your feet) for a quick freshening up whenever you feel like you’re a little smelly. They’re not going to replace your deodorant stick (they’re not as strong) but keep a package in your gym bag, dopp kit or backpack and you’re able to pull one out whenever and wherever you need it.
While we love the ability to use these anywhere at any time for a quick refresh, we found that they’re most effective when you’re right out of the shower, to double down on odor protection. The scent is subtle and fresh, but won’t last as long as your typical deodorant stick (it’s probably less concentrated). We don’t recommend using these instead of your stick deodorant, but we love them as a supplement throughout the day if needed - especially in high-sweat seasons like summer.
Read more: Best Body Wipes for Men
Other Deodorants We Love
Corpus Green Natural Plant-Based Deodorant
Not a big fan of natural deodorants? Corpus will change that. Not only has the brand’s baking-soda-free deodorants received rave consumer reviews for having an effective formula for sensitive skin, but Corpus offers some of the most elevated scent combinations on the market. If you’re looking something a little fancy and chemical free, this is a solid choice.
Ursa Major’s stellar unscented formula has the key ingredient of kaolin clay, which draws out impurities from the skin without drying it, meaning you will stay fresh all day long and avoid any chance of skin irritation. Vitamin C and E add to the deodorant’s appeal for added skin hydration.
Method Man Juniper + Sage Aluminum Free Deodorant
Method Man Juniper + Sage Aluminum Free Deodorant
Attractive packaging, high-quality scents, and top-notch odor protection make Method Men’s new aluminum-free deodorant collection one of our favorite grooming launches of the year. Take all four nature-inspired scents for a spin to discover your go-to underarm protection and we guarantee you’ll be just as impressed as we were.
When it comes to choosing a cologne or deodorant, most men could use a little guidance for finding their signature scent. Thankfully, that’s where Hawthorne comes in. After taking a quick quiz that asks a range of questions, from your age and occupation to your favorite cocktail and ideal evening plans, Hawthorne helps you find the perfect grooming goods in a scent you’ll love. Avoid the headache of trying a million options on the market and let your quiz results determine which deodorant you’d enjoy the most between a eucalyptus, mint, or tropical-scented option.
What to Look for
Sweat reduction: Deodorants are an extremely personal product. The first thing is that if you’re looking for sweat reduction, head for an antiperspirant which will help with that. Remember that deodorants only control odor, not sweat.
Scent: Once you’ve decided on a deodorant, look for one with a scent you like. A stronger scent usually means more long lasting protection.
Non-irritating ingredients: If you’re prone to skin irritation, you may want to consider a baking soda-free version as baking soda has been shown to cause irritation in some people. Look instead for ingredients like magnesium, tapioca starch and arrowroot powder.
Consistency type: Finally, you’ll want to consider the delivery mechanism. Most deodorants come in solid stick form: chalkier ones may carry more risk of leaving stains on clothes. Sprays, gels and lotions are also available if you’re not into the stick thing. Mostly, when it comes to deodorants and your own unique brand of odor, you may want to consider trying a variety of formulas to see what works best with your body chemistry.
Why Trust Us?
For the past five years, Men's Health has dedicated itself to discovering and recommending the best grooming products for men via hands-on testing and in-depth research. Men's Health grooming has been featured on national news outlets like The TODAY Show and Good Morning America, showcasing the latest new grooming products for men and presenting why we love the brands we select.
Aside from constantly updating and adding to our ever-growing grooming section, Men's Health also dedicates an annual Grooming Awards package where we break down the best new products for men—ranging everywhere from skincare to shaving. Our Grooming Editor, Garrett Munce, has been testing deodorants for more than 10 years, so he absolutely knows what he's talking about.
How We Selected
For the past three years, we consulted with Men's Health's Grooming editors and writers on the best-performing deodorants for men. Experts, including our Grooming Editor Garrett Munce, put a number of men's deodorants to the test and evaluated their effectiveness, scent, and price point. We also considered top-reviewed men's deodorants that had over 100 five-star ratings on e-commerce websites we trust.
Garrett Munce writes about men's style and grooming. He's written for Esquire, New York Magazine, Spotlyte, and Very Good Light and held staff positions at GQ and W. Follow his skincare obsession on Instagram at @garrettmunce.
As Men's Health's Deputy Editor, Commerce, Christian Gollayan oversees all shopping content on menshealth.com. He relocated back to New York by way of Portland, where he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in InStyle, Food & Wine, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.
