We Tested the Best Women’s Deodorants and Antiperspirants—These 16 Kept Us Dry

Deodorants and Antiperspirants We Also Tested

We tested over 35 women’s deodorants and antiperspirants, but some of the products fell short in one or more key categories. While these two didn’t make the cut, we did find some valuable features worth noting.

• During our test, Secret’s Stress Response Clinical Strength Deodorant and Antiperspirant did a great job of minimizing odor and sweat. However, it left behind a noticeable white streak on our tester’s shirt that was difficult to remove. 
• We liked Tom's Coconut Lavender Antiperspirant Deodorant for its odor-minimizing capabilities, but it left behind an uncomfortable sticky feel and very noticeable transfer.

What to Look for When Shopping for Women's Deodorants

• Antiperspirants vs. Deodorants: Antiperspirants are designed to block the release of sweat, while deodorants are designed to mask odor, Garshick says. In some cases, deodorants may also work to absorb excess moisture. Products can exist as an antiperspirant, deodorant, or as a combination of both, she adds. Choosing between an antiperspirant and a deodorant will depend on your own personal preference. If you’re unsure, you can’t go wrong with choosing a hybrid product—like our top overall pick.
• Ingredients: Aluminum-containing products are thought to be the most effective at reducing sweat, but there are many other ingredients that can be included, such as baking soda, magnesium, essential oils, shea butter, witch hazel, and others, Garshick says. Magnesium may help neutralize body odor by balancing pH, but won’t prevent sweat. On the other hand, baking soda can balance pH levels to reduce odor and help absorb excess moisture, Garshick says. Look for a deodorant or antiperspirant with ingredients that are intended to address your main concerns, whether you’re looking for something to minimize sweat or control odor.
• Application Type: Deodorants and antiperspirants come in various application types, including solid sticks, gels, creams, powders, and wipes. The choice comes down to personal preference, so choose the product that will be the most convenient and enjoyable for you to use. Garshick says. (Editor note: In our test, we found that solid, white sticks tend to transfer more than other types of deodorant.)
• Strength and Longevity: Deodorants and antiperspirants are often characterized as clinical strength when the formula contains higher levels of aluminum than traditional strength formulas, Penzi says. If you have hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating, look for clinical-strength antiperspirants. Conversely, if you have sensitive skin or want more natural antibacterial ingredients, look for aluminum-free products. Keep in mind that natural deodorants and antiperspirants typically don’t provide the same long-lasting protection that clinical strength products do.
• Scent: Some deodorant products contain fragrances that can help mask body odors, but you might want to avoid it if you have sensitive skin. Fragrance can irritate skin, worsen eczema, or cause allergic reactions, Penzi says.

How We Tested the Women’s Deodorants

To find the best women's deodorants and antiperspirants, we spoke with experts, researched dozens of brands, and tested 35 products in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home in our regular routines. During testing, we evaluate each product based on the following five criteria:

• Efficacy: To evaluate the efficacy of each product, we apply the product as directed to clean, dry armpits. We then participate in physical activity for a minimum of 15 minutes, paying attention to if and when we start feeling sweaty or smelling odor. We also re-evaluate these same things after 24 hours, prioritizing products with long-lasting efficacy.
• Scent: If a product has a scent, we carefully assess whether it's pleasant and subtle or overpowering and intense. Throughout our rigorous 24-hour testing period, we pay close attention to how the scent evolves. We observe whether it gradually fades away or remains strong over time.
• Texture: We evaluate each product's texture and application by focusing on its smoothness upon application. We consider its absorption rate and how quickly it dries down, as well as whether it leaves a sticky or tacky feeling. Deodorants that remain unnoticed during testing receive higher scores in our evaluations.
• Transfer Resistance: During testing, we observe whether the deodorant leaves behind any white streaks or transfers product onto our clothing. The goal is to find products that don't leave behind any residue, though that can be difficult for solid white sticks. In such instances, we assess how easy any transfer is to remove from our clothing.
• Overall Value: Once testing is complete, look at each product's price to determine a value score. We only recommend products that are truly worth the price, considering each of the above-tested categories. We also prioritize the ones we'd recommend to our own family and friends.
  

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, a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan, New York, and Englewood, New Jersey, and assistant professor of dermatology at Cornell University
• Lauren Penzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Long Island, New York
• Yolanda C. Holmes, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and surgeon in Washington, D.C.
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, a 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?

The goal of aluminum is to block sweat glands. Some people have concerns that aluminum may cause Alzheimer's disease or breast cancer, but there is no scientific link between aluminum and these diseases, Holmes says.

Do deodorants expire?

Like any product, deodorants and antiperspirants have a shelf life, typically between one and three years. Be sure to check the expiration date on your specific product, which is often located on the label.

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, Garshick says. To get the most out of an antiperspirant, you should apply it to dry skin at nighttime before going to bed.

What's the best deodorant to stop sweaty armpits?

If sweat is your main concern, opt for a clinical-strength antiperspirant. While deodorants work to minimize odor, we found that antiperspirants can really make a difference when it comes to excess moisture and sweat under your arms.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Michelle Parente, CYT, is a certified yoga sculpt instructor and an experienced health and fitness writer who is passionate about making great product recommendations. She frequently teaches and attends hot yoga classes, and also leads a busy lifestyle, so she knows the importance of finding a high-quality deodorant that gets the job done.