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Everyone has an arsenal of absolutely necessary, non-negotiable products they reach for daily—and I can bet my bottom dollar that deodorants and antiperspirants are high on the list. Regardless of which one you prefer, we can all agree feeling fresh and dry all day is a feeling unlike no other. The best deodorants for women are a lofty list to check off, but in the end, we all just want one to be sweat- and odor-free.
There is a difference between deodorants and antiperspirants, and it all comes down to one hotly debated ingredient: aluminum. “Deodorants are used to mask underarm odor. Many deodorants contain antiperspirant that reduces sweating. Aluminum-based formulas work by blocking the sweat duct thereby preventing sweat from being released and keeping you dry, ideally. While aluminum-based antiperspirants tend to work best, aluminum-free alternatives absorb moisture at the skin surface to reduce moisture. Currently, the FDA only categorizes aluminum-based formulas as true antiperspirants,” Dr. Balir Murphy Rose tells ELLE.com.
Our top picks for the best deodorants for women in 2023
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Best Essential Oil Deodorant
Each & Every Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
Read more - 3
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Many of the formulas you see in stores contain aluminum, but there are a plethora of more natural options to choose from—so we sourced them for you. We combed through thousands of online customer reviews and spoke to dermatologists to find the 18 best deodorants for women that will keep you dry, fight odor, and won't cause irritation.
Dove Clinical Protection Antiperspirant/Deodorant
Dove Clinical Protection Antiperspirant/Deodorant
Pros
- Great for over-active sweat glands
Cons
- Not a ton of product in packaging
Do hormones have your body out of whack? Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare, recommends this bestseller from Dove to help restore balance and keep you sweat-free. “Dove's Clinical Protection deodorant is most appropriate for those with active sweat glands, particularly during the reproductive years since hormones cause greater amounts of sweat and lead to body odor. This formula is very effective at reducing sweat and eliminating odor from the byproducts of bacteria mixing with a rich supply of sweat as deodorants don't reduce sweating. They simply only mask it,” Dr. Shirazi shares.
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Each & Every Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
Each & Every Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
Pros
- Non-irritating formula
Cons
- Will need to re-up throughout the day
Not only does this deodorant carry a heavenly aroma, but it's also designed for sensitive skin. “This masks odor and reduces moisture well for those who can go without an aluminum-containing antiperspirant. It is important to be aware that ‘natural’ does not mean gentle. In fact, natural ingredients are often more likely to irritate the skin or elicit hypersensitivity reactions,” Dr. Shirazi adds.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
| Size | 2.5 oz |
|---|
Native Cucumber & Mint Deodorant
Native Cucumber & Mint Deodorant
Pros
- Free of baking soda and aluminum
Cons
- Not long-lasting
“I favor Native deodorants as a natural, aluminum-free option because it’s gentle on the skin. Although the regular formula contains coconut oil, baking soda, shea butter, and magnesium hydroxide to mask odor and reduce odor-causing bacteria, the sensitive formula is free of baking soda making it suitable for sensitive skin types,” Dr. Shirazi notes. Plus, there are a plethora of scents to choose from to match your mood.
Target rating: 4.5/5 stars
| Size | 2.65 oz |
|---|
Vanicream Anti-Perspirant Deodorant
Vanicream Anti-Perspirant Deodorant
Pros
- Non-irritating formula
Cons
- Can leave behind residue
Here's a deodorant that fights off sweat all day long. “Vanicream has a solid formula combining antiperspirant and deodorant with aluminum for those with a need to control sweating,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy Rose, MD, FAAD says.
| Size | 2.25 oz |
|---|
Vanicream Aluminum-Free Gel Deodorant
Vanicream Aluminum-Free Gel Deodorant
Pros
- Free of harsh chemicals
Cons
- Pills and crumbles
“A dermatologist favorite for sensitive skin types, this aluminum-free formula comes in a gel form that dries without leaving a residue. It’s also fragrance-free and only contains five ingredients leaving out common chemical irritants, botanical extracts, and parabens,” Dr. Rose notes.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
Nécessaire Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel in Fragrance Free at Nordstrom
Nécessaire Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel in Fragrance Free at Nordstrom
Pros
- Gently exfoliates without irritation
Cons
- Not long-lasting
Exfoliating deodorants are all the rage right now, especially this gem from Necesaire. A favorite of Dr. Shirazi, this deodorant features niacinamide, mandelic acid, and witch hazel to control odor and brighten the area. “It’s clear, [and has] five percent AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and niacinamide deodorant to reduce odor-causing bacteria while also treating hyperpigmentation and smoothing texture. It dries quickly, it’s not messy or sticky. It’s also free of many irritants such as aluminum, baking soda, synthetic fragrance, PEGs, and parabens,” she explains.
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant
Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant
Pros
- Address odor and hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Product dispenser can get messy
Whether you're athletic or just super sweaty, Kosas' AHA deodorant does all the grunt work so you don't have to. AHAs are blended with aloe vera juice to soothe and exfoliate so your 'pits can live their best life, stench-free.
Nordstrom rating: 4.1/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer said: “I’ve tried every deodorant out there. After I had my son I had very smelly armpits and nothing was masking the smell. After a couple weeks of giving this a try it I have ZERO smells coming from my armpits!! This stuff works!!”
| Size | 2.5 oz |
|---|
Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant
Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant
Pros
- Smell lasts all day
Cons
- Pricey
Yes, every review you read is true: You really need to buy this. Fans of the iconic scent will love Donna Karan's odor-blocking deodorant, which leaves you smelling luxurious all day long.
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer said: “I was SO skeptical about this deodorant but to my pleasant surprise, it WORKS and smells GREAT! It's my favorite!”
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant and Deodorant
Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant and Deodorant
Pros
- Protects against active sweat glands
Cons
- Not super invisible
Your gym bag has been missing this hardworking deodorant. It reduces odor and minimizes sweat spots to avoid any embarrassing moments.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I lovee this product! It works so well for the gym and on top I work a labor job! The aluminum in this product doesn’t sting my armpits after shaving and prevents any stinky smell!”
| Size | 1.6 oz |
|---|
Sol de Janeiro Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Refillable Deodorant Cheirosa '62
Sol de Janeiro Rio Deo Aluminum-Free Refillable Deodorant Cheirosa '62
Pros
- Gently exfoliates
Cons
- Need to re-up throughout the day
Scent layering works best when your lotions and oils are added to the mix. How about adding deodorant? Sol de Janeiro's signature Cheirosa scent is morphed into deodorant to keep bad odor at bay and your armpits dry from sunrise to sunset. It's packed with papaya enzymes to exfoliate dead skin away.
Sephora rating: 3.7/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “This deodorant is amazing. I’ve tried many aluminum-free deodorants and this is the best one I’ve found. This one actually lasts and there’s no odor even after I finish my workouts.”
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
Mutha Deodorant
Pros
- Soothing, moisturizing ingredients
Cons
- Need to re-apply throughout the day
Mutha's deodorant feels like a silky hug. Chia seed and avocado oils are the MVPs of this composition, and nourish your underarms as arrowroot powder blocks odor.
An ELLE Editor said: “I'm pretty loyal when it comes to my deodorants, but Mutha's iteration was a welcome change. I remained dry and odorless throughout my work day, and only needed to re-up once.” —Nerisha Penrose, Beauty Commerce Editor
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Athena Club Keeps You Fresh All Day, Every Day
Athena Club Keeps You Fresh All Day, Every Day
Pros
- Non-sticky formula
Cons
- Faint smell
The makers of your favorite razor created an accompanying deodorant to make your hairless 'pits smell and feel good. Instead of baking soda—which is commonly used in deodorants—All Day Deo leans on tapioca starch to ward off odor, and camomile and coconut oil for nourishment.
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
Dove Beauty 0% Aluminum Cucumber & Green Tea
Dove Beauty 0% Aluminum Cucumber & Green Tea
Pros
- Stain-free
Cons
- Scent doesn’t last long
The underarm area isn’t the only place that gets sweaty and gross. Thanks to this spray from Dove, you can get all the hard-to-reach spaces with just a few spritzes.
Target rating: 4.1/5 stars
A Target reviewer said: “I only use this deodorant. It dries instantly and lasts all day without leaving residue on my clothing.”
| Size | 4 oz |
|---|
Alo Yoga Supernatural Deodorant - Scented
Alo Yoga Supernatural Deodorant - Scented
Pros
- Nourishing ingredients
Cons
- Doesn’t mask odor that well
Grab this deodorant before your next yoga session. Alo Yoga's Supernatural Deodorant is free of all the things your armpits hate (parabens, baking soda, etc.) and chock full of the goods (vitamin C, tea tree oil, and probiotics).
Alo Yoga rating: 3.8/5 stars
An Alo Yoga reviewer said: “Alo, please change nothing!! This is so good. The packaging and formula are spot on and the ingredients are so softening. Thank you for changing the natural deo game!”
| Size | 1.7 oz |
|---|
Kopari Aluminum Free Natural Deodorant with Organic Coconut Oil
Kopari Aluminum Free Natural Deodorant with Organic Coconut Oil
Pros
- Glides on clear
Cons
With six scents to choose from, Kopari's natural deodorant is sure to make you feel and smell good. The formula is aluminum-free and contains sage and coconut oil to hydrate and soothe.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I absolutely love this product, lot of natural deodorants give me rashes but this one does not! It's great and works great too!”
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
MALIN and GOETZ Eucalyptus Deodorant
MALIN and GOETZ Eucalyptus Deodorant
Pros
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Pricey
Your underarms deserve a spa treatment, too. Malin and Goetz's signature eucalyptus scent comes in deodorant form so you remain sweat- and odor-free, with a tinge of coolness.
Revolve rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Revolve reviewer said: “For the past year, I have been on the hunt for a the best cruelty free and toxin free deodorant, with many failed attempts! This one is definitely my favorite so far because it actually works!”
| Size | 2.6 oz |
|---|
By Rosie Jane Wake the F*ck Up Deodorant
By Rosie Jane Wake the F*ck Up Deodorant
Pros
- Bright, citrus scent
Cons
- Need to reapply often
Don't be alarmed by the clear, unassuming bottle. By Rosie Jane's spray deodorant has an invigorating scent that does exactly what its name says. The bacteria-fighting formula contains aloe vera, sugarcane alcohol, and essential oils for freshness.
By Rosie Jane rating: 4.7/5 stars
A By Rosie Jane reviewer said: “Has such a nice, clean scent without being overpowering. I feel fresh and love how it doesn’t leave deodorant stains.”
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
Drunk Elephant Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream
Drunk Elephant Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream
Pros
- Gently exfoliates
Cons
- Needs to be applied with hands
A deodorant cream? Yes, you read that right. Drunk Elephant's Sweet Pitti dispenses a creamy blend of oils, as well as exfoliating agents like mandelic acid, that absorb sweat and protect your underarm region.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “Works all day and the subtle scent smells good. I apply it with my fingers like other users suggested and it goes on like lotion. Easy to use.”
| Size | 2 oz |
|---|
Is wearing deodorant every day bad for you?
No one wants to smell bad, but Dr. Shirazi suggests taking a few things into account when buying deodorant. “I consider both deodorants and antiperspirants safe products with a few precautions to consider. Fragrance is a common allergen in deodorants, which puts you at risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), especially in skin folds like the armpits. You may notice rashes in the area with continuous use over time. Baking soda is a common ingredient in aluminum-free deodorants as it makes it less favorable for odor-causing bacteria to grow,” she explains. Aluminum has long been touted as an ingredient linked to many illnesses. “Those with less than 30 percent kidney function should avoid antiperspirants with aluminum according to the National Kidney Foundation as they may not be able to clear the aluminum. There are some theories linking aluminum in antiperspirants to both breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, but there’s a lack of scientific cause and effect,” she says.
Is aluminum really that bad in deodorant?
“Antiperspirants use aluminum salts that dissolve to block sweat from forming. There’s concern that frequent use of antiperspirants may lead to a buildup of aluminum in breast tissue. But there’s no proof that aluminum salts can cause breast cancer. Aluminum compounds are not only in antiperspirants, but also in many cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Research through the American Cancer Society shows there’s no solid scientific evidence linking deodorants and breast cancer,” Dr. Shirazi explains.
Dr. Rose shares similar sentiments and advises those who have concerns to look into alternative methods. “Given the suspicions, it is reasonable to avoid aluminum-based antiperspirants if you do not need them. For those who naturally sweat minimally, that may be a simple option. For those who are bothered by underarm sweating that is not well controlled by aluminum-free deodorant, there are several in-office procedures that reduce or eliminate sweating both temporarily and permanently. Alternative methods for adequate moisture control include oral medications, botulinum toxin injections, and a microwave technology-based procedure that you can talk to your dermatologist about,” Dr. Rose explains.
Nerisha is the beauty commerce editor at ELLE.com, covering all things beauty (and fashion and music). She has a penchant for sneakers and nude lip glosses, and spends way too much time re-watching 90s sitcoms.
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