The weather is warming up, and the ladies are about to get their fix of all the best things summer brings — iced coffees, concerts, hot girl walks, sleeveless tops, and strappy dresses are sitting at the top of our list.
And, while there is plenty to celebrate in the months ahead, there are also a few things that we’re not particularly looking forward to. Sweat is one of them. ‘Tis the season of sweaty pits, which means lathering yourself in perfume and crossing your fingers (just kidding). Personal hygiene is important all year round, but the summer months can be especially tricky when it comes to keeping your skin refreshed and smelling your best.
The good news is that there’s a range of deodorant brands on the market, whether you prefer an eco-friendly natural formula like Native Regular Deodorant, something gentle on sensitive skin like this cream from Forgotten Skincare, or a hardcore musk-buster like the Arm & Hammer Deodorant which will keep you smelling lovely all day long.
Some brands are aimed at reducing sweat and keeping your underarms dry, while others are mostly meant to mask smells. Deodorants and antiperspirants also come in a variety of forms; sticks, rolls, and sprays — so you can take your pick at whatever works best for you.
Read more:The best deodorants for sensitive skin that actually work, per an expert
To bring you the best review of deodorants for women, we’ve rounded up a list of those tried and tested by all the women on the Post Wanted team. Finding the right deodorant can take some trial and error, so we recommend you take your time with consistent use before making a final judgment call.
- Best for sweating: Arm & Hammer Deodorant 2.6oz Solid Ultra Powder Fresh
- Best all-natural: Native Regular Deodorant
- Best gel: Secret Clinically Proven Formula
- Best spray: Dove Aerosol Antiperspirant Deodorant
- Best smelling: Rio Deo Aluminum-free Refillable Deodorant
- Best aluminum-free: Secret’s Aluminum-free Deodorant
Best for sweating: Arm & Hammer Deodorant 2.6oz Solid Ultra Powder Fresh
Pros:
- Reduces underarm swear (ideal for those who sweat frequently or heavily)
- Subtle scent — reviewers mention it blends well with other perfumes
Cons:
- Does contain aluminum
Size: 2.6 ounces
For a more subtle scent, one of our writers has recommended Arm & Hammer’s powder fresh formula. “I often switch things up with beauty and skincare, but when it comes to deodorant I stick with what works. This no-frills stick has been my standby for over a decade. I’m not a big fragrance person, so the subtle powder scent is perfect,” shared Hannah Southwick, Page Six Commerce Writer and Reporter.
Best gel: Secret Clinically Proven Formula
Pros:
- Wide range of scent options that smell good
- Truly long-lasting
- Stain-free
- Variety of application products to choose from your preference
Cons:
- The clinical formula may irritate sensitive skin types
Size: 2.6 ounces
“I’ve been partial to Secret’s deodorants for as long as I’ve been wearing deodorant! I love that the brand has a variety of products, ranging from dry sprays to clinical strength solids, and a wide range of scents to choose from. I like to rotate fragrances, although lavender and cozy vanilla are my long-time favorites that blend well with my skin,” shared Meaghan Roche, Sr. Manager of SEO for Commerce. “The clear gel version has above average strength, which can be harder to find with a gel compared with a solid, and leaves no stain or trace on clothing. I prefer to keep both the gel and solid on hand depending on my needs, as I find that the solid lasts just a bit longer.”
Best spray: Dove Aerosol Antiperspirant Deodorant
Pros:
- Spray-on is ideal for quick and easy application
- A variety of scents are available as well as an unscented option
- Can be bought in bulk
Cons:
- Spray deodorants may be less precise, so some of the product could be waisted
Size: 4.8 ounces
Another top contender from our Post Wanted team is a spray-on deodorant that does the trick with a simple application. “I love the Dove dry spray because it’s lightweight, smells amazing, and lasts so long. It doesn’t feel sticky or clumpy like traditional swipe-on deodorant. Every scent smells so good it could be a perfume,” explained Commerce Partnerships Coordinator, Julie Fuschetti.
Best smelling: Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Refillable Deodorant
Pros:
- Papaya enzyme gently exfoliates to remove dead skin cells, fight ingrown hairs, and promote an even skin tone
- Coconut oil quickly melts into the skin to soften, condition, and moisturize
- Does not leave residue on the skin
- Aluminum-free, baking soda-free based
Cons:
- I wish it lasted a bit longer (I go through it fast and have had the tip of the applicator break/crack)
Size: 2 ounces
Honestly, I’m not sure what I love most about this deodorant — the fact that it smells so good that I could eat it (I mean, it’s a combination of salted caramel and pistachio, so duh) or that it reminds me of the iconic Brazilian Bum Bum Cream scent (they’re the same scent formula). It really just smells like summer. Aside from those selling points, I love how easily this deodorant glides on, and the fact that the tube is refillable, so you can buy in bulk and reduce plastic waste.
Best with probiotics: Alo Supernatural Aluminum-Free Deodorant with Anti-Odor Probiotics
Pros:
- Long-lasting and stays on and keeps arms dry through workouts
- A powerful blend of ingredients and vitamin C keeps skin soft, smooth, and nourished
- Provides full-coverage and leaves behind no residue
Cons:
- The citrus smell is not for everyone (a matter of personal preference)
Size: 1.7 ounces
Another one of my favorite, aluminum-free deodorants comes from my favorite activeware store, Alo. The citrus scent is a game-changer. It’s powered with super-antioxidants, vitamin C, cleansing tea tree, anti-odor probiotics, plus an extra dose of hydrating hyaluronic acid. My skin feels hydrated for hours after applying just a small amount. And, I’ve noticed that this lasts longer than some other deodorants I’ve used. It’s survived sweaty workouts, yoga classes, hikes, camping trips, and more.
Best baking-soda formula: Billie All Day Deodorant
Pros:
- Aluminum-free and baking soda-free ingredients
- Designed specifically for women
- Four scents available
- Lightweight and glides on easily
Cons:
- Some mixed reviews on the scent and stickiness
Size: 2.6 ounces
The Billie All Day Deodorant is the brand’s newer foray into the natural deodorant space — and one of my favorites,” said Victoria Giardina, New York Post Content Strategist and Commerce Journalist. “It’s made with aluminum-free ingredients that are long-lasting and I feel like I’m using a ‘non-natural’ deodorant in terms of staying power. It’s also super lightweight and always swipes onto my skin with a well-coated, velvety, and bare-skin finish.”
Best brightening deodorant: Forgotten Skincare’s The Original Underarm Brightening Deodorant Cream
Pros:
- Not just for body odor — but also brightens and softens the skin
- Good for sensitive skin (hyperpigmentation, razor burn, ingrown hairs)
- Serum can also be applied to the bikini line (not just to the armpits)
Cons:
- Should be used consistently to see the best results — make take some time to pay off
“Forgotten Skincare’s The Original Underarm Brightening Deodorant Cream is a splurge, but one worth making,” Giardina noted of another of her favorite brands. “Specially designed for sensitive skin like mine, it’s the quick fix (or should I say, quick swipe) for hyperpigmentation, razor bumps, uneven texture, and redness. Oh, and body odor. But, not only that — it helps brighten. It’s like skincare for your underarms.”
Best all-natural: Native Regular Deodorant
Pros
- Free of aluminum salts, parabens, and phthalates
- 22 scents with regular limited-time exclusives
- Long-lasting formula (72 hours of protection)
Cons:
- Some reviewers say this is less powerful than other deodorants they have tired
Size: 2.65 ounces
Giardina’s final pick is the Native Regular Deodorant. “I’m beyond obsessed with the Native Regular Deodorant and, impressively, it comes in a wealth of sensitive skin-friendly scent notes to choose from. It’s void of aluminum salts, parabens, and phthalates while tackling odor swipe-first. Uniquely, it uses baking soda on its label, rendering the formulation effective. It also seems to brighten the area as well.”
Best luxury: Donna Karen Cashmere Mist
Pros:
- The scent is more on the mild side (not overpowering)
- Aluminum-free and alcohol-free
- Ideal for sensitive skin or people prone to breaking out
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it breaks before it’s gone (important to push up only a little at a time to avoid cracking)
Size: 1.7 ounces
This deodorant is the top pick by not one, but two members of the Post Wanted team.
“The only women’s deodorant that has ever worked for me is the Donna Karen Cashmere Mist deodorant. My small circle of friends swears by it, especially the fashion girlies who are on their feet and running around the city all day. It keeps me dry and smelling fresh — nothing overpowering — for like two days straight,” said Kendall Cornish, Commerce Editor and Reporter.
“Donna Karen’s Cashmere Mist Deodorant sounds as good as it feels, gliding on seamlessly,” said Emma Sutton Willians, Commerce Writer and Reporter. “I’m very sensitive and break out easily, but I have never broken out using her deodorant. It never ruins my clothing with white splotches, and yes, it’s a bit of a splurge for me, but I find it’s worth it. Your senses will be delighted with a floral, powdery scent that keeps you smelling fresh all day long.”
Best aluminum-free: Secret’s Aluminum-free Deodorant
Pros:
- Vegan and paraben-free
- Dries quickly and very lightweight, per reviews
- Offers 48 hours of protection
Cons:
- Doesn’t prevent sweating but masks the smell adequately
Size: 2.4 ounces
“I sweat — a lot, especially when I’m stressed, so I take my deodorant seriously. I’ve tried a lot of brands and they either haven’t worked or have aluminum, which I try to avoid,” shared Holly Coley, the Commerce Updates Editor at the Post. “After one natural deodorant left me disappointed, I decided to try Secret’s Aluminum Free line. It covers you up to 48 hours, is vegan, and doesn’t have parabens. I’ve been using the Real Coconut scent for the last few weeks and haven’t been disappointed. It’s not antiperspirant, so I still sweat, only now no one can tell. It dries fast too, doesn’t leave white marks on my clothes, and actually smells really good.”
Best moisturizing: Glossier Deodorant
Pros:
- Come with refillable packaging stick (more eco-friendly)
- Moisturizing ingredients like superfruit elderberry extract, magnesium hydroxide and potato starch
- Aluminum-free
Cons:
- Only three signature scents are available
- Some reviewers mentioned it didn’t reduce the amount of sweat, but did help with odor
Size: 2.2 ounces
“Glossier takes ‘clean girl’ aesthetic to a literal level with their new deodorant,” shared Sophie Cannon, the Associate Manager of Commerce Strategy & Development. “As a long-time fan of their ‘You’ fragrance, which the Post reviewed, I was thrilled that a matching deodorant was released. You can fully match the scent with their “You” deodorant, or try something new with Orange Blossom Neroli or Sandstone. For those that like unscented, they also have a long-lasting unscented version that will help you smell clean without any added fragrance. Plus, all of the scents are refillable, helping you and the planet stay cool.”
More Post Wanted Picks
Best for the whole body: Lume Soft Powder Deodorant
Pros:
- Clinically proven 72-hour odor control
- Safe for use across the body (underboobs, belly buttons, tummy folds, cracks, etc.)
- Decreased the appearance of hyperpigmentation
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on the scents
Size: 2.2 ounces
A deodorant that works on the whole body? Meet Lume. This brand is for pits, privates, and beyond. It is ph pH-optimized and clinically proven to control body odor for 72 hours. Reviewers love that it doesn’t stain their clothes, and is the perfect size for travel.
Customers are saying: “I have put a little here, there, and everywhere. It works. It is a fantastic product. I am very careful with what I put on my skin. It has not caused me to itch or feel irritated. It dries clear and does not leave a residue.”
Best for sensitive skin: Curie Deodorant Stick 3-Pack
Pros:
- Free of aluminum, parabens, or phthalates
- Odor protection is long-lasting, per many reviews
- Positive review for scent
Cons:
- Thicker formula — may be a bit more difficult to apply to skin
Size: 2 ounces
Curi’s aluminum-free deodorant works wonders for people with sensitive skin. It’s made with wholesome ingredients like sage oil, triethyl citrate, and baking soda to soothe and moisturize dry, cracked, or irritated underarms.
Customers are saying: “I have tried a lot of natural deodorants, and they either cause an allergic reaction where my armpits feel like fire ants attacked me, or they don’t feel like they’re working! This has a mild scent, seems to work so much better (in that I actually feel dry and don’t have an underlying BO smell), and no allergic reaction!”
Best non-GMO: Humble Brands Original Formula Aluminum-free Deodorant
Pros:
- Very simple natural formula (just four ingredients)
- Botanical extracts are used for a variety of scents
- Scents are more on the mild side
- Does not leave marks on clothes, per many reviewers
Cons:
- Some reviewers mention that it forms some lumps
Size: 2.5 ounces
When in doubt go with something simple. The Humble Original Formula is derived from just four ingredients: non-GMO corn starch, beeswax, baking soda, and MCT oil. It neutralizes odors without clogging pores, and while you may still sweat while using it, the fresh nature-inspired scents are said to mask smells quite well.
Customers are saying: “I’ve tried a bunch of aluminum-free deodorants and there’s only a few that actually work. Humble works for regular daytime work as well as intense gym workouts. I never experienced B.O. which is a plus. It’s not an antiperspirant, but it keeps you from being stinky and doesn’t have any harmful chemicals.”
How we tested
We didn’t just ‘test,’ these deodorants — we swear by them. The deodorants in this roundup are worn regularly by our Post Wanted team members. To provide insightful analyses for each brand, we’ve added our thoughts on skin-friendliness, odor prevention, and sweat prevention.
Skin-friendliness: Does it moisturize? Does it hydrate? How does it affect your pores? These are all serious questions that we’ve asked to ensure you find a deodorant that caters to your skin type — whether dry, itchy, or a combination of both. In testing various deodorants, we’ve found some that are precisely formulated to hydrate and brighten the skin, as well as prevent odors.
Odor prevention: Body odor is completely normal. Deodorants work by attacking the bacteria on your skin (that can be exasperated by sweating), which could potentially lead to a musky or pungent smell. We’ve made note of how well each deodorant works to combat these odors, and how long the odor protection lasts.
Sweat prevention: Unlike generic deodorants, antiperspirants reduce underarm sweating by blocking the pores on the outer layer of your skin. Some people can be sensitive to certain ingredients and harmful chemicals used in antiperspirants like aluminum. We’ve pointed out whether these ingredients are included in each formula, and whether any skin reactions occurred.
FAQ’s on choosing the right deodorant
What is the difference between deodorant and antiperspirants?
Preventing sweat is an entirely different game than quenching unwanted scents. Deodorants mask pungent odors or reduce the amount of bacteria-causing odors, while antiperspirants reduce the amount of sweat your body releases — consequently preventing bad smells before they occur.
How does aluminum work in deodorants and antiperspirants?
Antiperspirants are made of ingredients, including aluminum salts. In the simplest terms, aluminum disrupts the natural sweating process. “Aluminum salts dissolve on your skin and “melt” into your pores. This helps plug up your pores and stop some of your sweat,” according to Healthline.
Why do some people avoid aluminum in deodorants?
Some people try to avoid chemicals such as aluminum because of concerns that they could have negative health effects by preventing sweating. Per Healthline, some research has suggested that aluminum, at least in large amounts, may be harmful to the body’s endocrine system over time.
Do natural deodorants work as well as traditional deodorants?
Those looking to avoid aluminum may opt for natural ingredients that won’t block sweat glands. It’s important to consider that natural deodorants mask smells but they do not prevent sweat altogether, so you may still experience some unwanted scents.
Healthline suggests giving your body time to adjust to alternative deodorants, “Don’t expect the same results as traditional deodorants when switching to a natural product. It could take a few days or weeks for your underarms to rebalance their ecosystem.”
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