The 14 Absolute Best Deodorants & Antiperspirants for Men

Hey, we’re men. Many of us sweat a lot, and that sweat often creates a distinct body odor that endears us to no one. That’s why a man’s hygiene routine must include deodorant and antiperspirant, if not both.

Deodorants block B.O. while antiperspirants eliminate excess sweating; don’t leave home without applying one or the other (or both).

We’ll cover the best deodorant for men and the best antiperspirants for men in this post because, well, they’re essential components of proper grooming.

We’ll review the best deodorants and antiperspirants, discuss important factors to consider when choosing each product, how to apply them, their different types, and also address some Frequently Asked Questions about them.

Let’s get rolling with some buying tips.

Quick summary: Deodorants

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Quick summary: Antiperspirants

Before you buy: 9 Things to consider when purchasing a deodorant or antiperspirant

You should always choose a product you apply to your body every day carefully. That’s true of deodorants and antiperspirants, which come in many varieties, shapes, and forms. And, like any grooming product, it pays to do some research before you buy.

1. Deodorant and antiperspirant – what’s the difference?

Keep in mind that deodorant and antiperspirants aren’t the same. Deodorant fights odor thanks to acidic or salty ingredients that kill bacteria that cause odor. It also helps to absorb sweat, but its primary function is to keep your armpits from smelling.

Antiperspirant, on the other hand, consists of compounds that block sweat glands to prevent the flow of sweat. They don’t fight odor.

2. How often you sweat

How often and how much you sweat should help determine which deodorants and antiperspirants to choose. If you sweat a lot, antiperspirants with aluminum may be your best best.

Some experts argue that aluminum may lead to health problems, while others say there’s no connection between aluminum and adverse health effects.

If you sweat a lot, consider buying “clinical strength” antiperspirant. While they do tend to keep you drier than regular strength antiperspirants, they also tend to have a higher concentration of active ingredients that may cause skin irritation.

3. Your skin type

Men with sensitive skin may experience adverse health reactions, such as skin rashes and other irritations. If you fall into this category, choose deodorant and antiperspirants formulated for sensitive skin.

Soothing ingredients such as witch hazel work well on sensitive skin by preventing irritation, but still leave you feeling fresh.

Deodorants without artificial fragrances generally work well for men with sensitive skin, as well.

4. Type

Deodorants come typically in solids, roll-ons, and sprays. Sprays represent the most popular version worldwide, although Americans tend to prefer solids and roll-ons.

Solids feel drier than the other options and typically contain soothing ingredients that keep skin irritation to a minimum. Sprays dry quickly and usually last longer than roll-ons and solids, but they tend to cost a bit more.

Roll-ons, meanwhile, go on clear but create a wet feeling that some find uncomfortable.

5. The difference between men’s and women’s products

While it’s true that the sweat glands of men differ from those of women, the differences aren’t enough to affect how deodorant works.

In other words, women could use a “men’s” deodorant, and vice versa, without a significant difference regarding results (and the ingredients don’t vary much at all).

Indeed, women may save money by buying men’s deodorant.

6. Consider natural brands

Many people choose natural deodorant because they’d rather not use products with artificial ingredients and chemicals that may or may not be harsh for the skin and body. But good luck finding natural antiperspirant.

7. How long it lasts

Deodorants last for a long time after application, although advertisements that suggest they last up to 48 hours are misleading. But they should last long enough so that you don’t have to re-apply them several times during the day.

8. Check the ingredients

Always check the product’s ingredient list before you buy deodorant or antiperspirant. Ingredients to be wary of – but which may be hard to avoid – are triclosan, BHT, parabens, propylene glycol, and silica.

9. Fragrance

Carefully check the product’s scent before you buy, if you choose to go with those that include fragrance. Remember, it’s a scent that will be with you, and perhaps those around you, for most of the day.

The 7 best deodorants for men 2020

1. L’Occitane Eau des Baux Deodorant for Men

Best features:

• Excellent scent
• Dries quickly
• Eliminates odor-causing bacteria

Best deodorant for:

Men looking for a luxury brand deodorant

Overview

Designer brand deodorants, such as L’Occitane’s Eau des Baux, often have a distinct fragrance that may even remind one of cologne.

Eau des Baux has a scent described as “fresh cypress and mellow incense” that’s one of a kind and something that sets it apart from other deodorants. But it does more than simply smell good.

For starters, Eau des Baux doesn’t contain alcohol, aluminum salts, or parabens. That’s not a surprise considering that L’Occitane, based in Provence, France, specializes in organic beauty care.

L’Occitane’s products are typically produced under ecologically sustainable conditions and come in eco-refill packaging. And many of their ingredients come from local and sustainable farms in the Provence and Mediterranean regions.

The Eau des Baux formula fights odor by blocking the development of bacteria that causes it. It doesn’t just cover up the odor, but prevents it from occurring in the first place.

Eau des Baux glides on smoothly and dries quickly while providing 24-hour odor protection. And, because it’s alcohol and paraben-free, it’s kinder to the skin and less likely to irritate.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for the best men’s designer deodorant, look no further than L’Occitane’s Eau des Baux. It smells great and provides all-day protection against the bacteria that produce body odor.

2. MenScience Androceuticals Advanced Deodorant

Best features:

• Aluminum-free
• Won’t stain clothes
• Provides maximum odor prevention

Best deodorant for:

• Men who want long-lasting protection without the use of harmful chemicals

Overview

MenScience Androceuticals have a long line of products that cover every aspect of men’s grooming needs. They also sell nutritional products geared to men’s health.

We like their Advanced Deodorant a lot for many reasons, including that it’s free of alcohol and aluminum, and that it offers long-lasting protection which won’t fall short during a hectic day.

Like the other products in the MenScience line, the Advanced Deodorant is scientifically formulated for men’s needs. It’s loaded with dermatological-grade ingredients and is 100% free of dyes, fragrance, or other irritating ingredients.

Tea tree extract and witch hazel included in the MenScience deodorant fight odor-causing bacteria while eliminating unpleasant ‘pit smells at their source.

As mentioned, it doesn’t include fragrance, so if you don’t mind a product without a tell-tale scent, this deodorant is a good choice for you.

Something else to like about it is that it goes on clear and dry and won’t leave unsightly stains on your clothes. It also has a smooth texture that makes it easy to layer on your underarms evenly.

It’s also an ideal deodorant for men with sensitive skin because of its hypoallergenic, aluminum and alcohol-free formula. You’ll enjoy long-lasting protection without the risk of skin irritation.

Bottom Line

MenScience puts a lot of thought and research into its men’s grooming (and nutritional) products and it shows with their Advanced Deodorant. One could argue that it’s the best men’s deodorant; at the least, it ranks very high on the list.

3. Helmm Natural Deodorant

Best features:

• Four great scents
• Natural ingredients
• Refillable

The best deodorant for:

Men who want a refillable deodorant

Overview

Helmm’s Natural Deodorant isn’t just “natural,” but also unique in many ways.
For starters, the folks at Helmm claim it’s the world’s first refillable deodorant. When one of its cartridges runs out – like a printer ink cartridge – you toss it away and get another.

That’s notable for a couple of reasons, including that you don’t have to throw away the container, which in turn saves on plastic waste.

And the nickel-plated, laser-engraved zinc container is well worth keeping.

Another interesting part of the Helmm experience is that you can either buy their Natural Deodorant as a one-time purchase or save money in the long run by buying it through a prescription.

While all the above is good and unique, we wouldn’t have this product on our list if it didn’t do its intended job: to control sweat and body odor.

It does both very nicely, and it’s packed with natural ingredients such as castor oil, sunflower seed oil, aloe leaf extract, and vitamin E.

It comes in four scents – Trailblazer, Hudson, Coastline, and Night Market – which don’t assault the senses like many common store-bought deodorants. The scents also pair well with your favorite cologne without creating an offensive mix of smells.

Helmm’s founders wanted to create a deodorant that doesn’t rely on a marketing campaign that appeals to your self-worth, attractiveness, or confidence, but instead gets the job done. They’ve made it happen.

Bottom line

Helmm’s Natural Deodorant smells good, has natural ingredients, and will keep you fresh all day. Plus, it’s unique in a lot of ways.

4. Ursa Major Base Layer Deodorant

Best features:

• Clean, healthy, and non-toxic ingredients
• Non-staining
• A little goes a long way

Best deodorant for:

• Those looking for an all-natural deodorant

Overview

Ursa Major doesn’t just talk the talk, but also walks the walk regarding natural grooming products. While some products try to lay claim to the “all-natural” moniker, Ursa Major makes it happen with a product that’s the best natural deodorant for men.

It’s also effective in fighting odor, which is the purpose of deodorant, and while it’s not an antiperspirant, it does a good job of absorbing excess moisture while soothing the skin.

But, again, this is an all-natural deodorant that lives up to its name thanks to ingredients like aloe, chamomile, and shea butter – which soothe the skin and reduce irritation – and kaolin clay, which eliminates odor.

The latter also absorbs moisture to give the deodorant antiperspirant qualities.

What it doesn’t contain are ingredients such as aluminum and parabens, as well as a fragrance that may irritate the skin of some users.

It goes on with a smooth, silky texture and glides easily to provide an even layer. It comes in a 2.6-ounce bottle that, Ursa Major says, should last up to 3 to 4 months with daily use.

Bottom Line

Ursa Major is an eco-friendly brand from Vermont that develops formulas which won’t harm the skin or cause other issues. Their Base Layer deodorant allows you to avoid the chemicals while still getting effective results.

5. Magsol Magnesium Deodorant

Best features:

• Natural ingredients
• Gentle on skin
• Three-pack with three fragrances

Best deodorant for:

• Men looking for a magnesium-based deodorant

Overview

If you’ve tried other natural deodorants and experienced skin irritation, such as rashes and bumps, then you may want to try MagSol’s Magnesium Deodorant.

It’s one of the first natural deodorants to use magnesium oxide to control odor. Magnesium oxide is a good alternative to baking soda – which is found in many natural deodorants – while working in a similar way: it creates a high pH environment that fights bacteria growth.

Unlike baking soda, however, magnesium oxide isn’t as water-soluble, which means it slowly changes the pH of your skin to give the skin time to adjust – which greatly decreases irritation.

All in all, it makes MagSol’s deodorant an excellent choice for men with ultra-sensitive skin who’ve struggled to find a natural deodorant that works for them. It’s also aluminum-free, which also helps to reduce potential irritation.

You don’t have to worry about other harmful chemicals either, because this deodorant’s list of ingredients is short and to the point: almond oil, beeswax, magnesium oxide, and therapeutic essential oils.

Bottom Line

Men with sensitive skin often find it a challenge to buy a deodorant that doesn’t irritate the skin – including natural deodorants. But MagSol’s Magnesium Deodorant provides an excellent alternative.

6. Primal Pit Paste All-Natural Deodorant

Best features:

• Neutralizes odor
• Natural ingredients
• Handcrafted

Best deodorant for:

• Men who prefer products with natural ingredients

Overview

Another top deodorant in the all-natural category is Primal Pit Paste’s aluminum and paraben-free product (which you can also include under a “most effective deodorant” subheading).

First, a bit of history: Primal Pit Paste is the brainchild of Amy Cazin, a stay-at-home mom and athlete who wanted to create a safe deodorant for her children.

Instead, with only a $100 investment, she created an all-natural deodorant that’s effective for everyone, including men.

It’s effective for a lot of reasons, as well, including that it neutralizes odor instead of just covering it up or masking it. It includes non-aluminum baking soda that works with your body’s natural chemistry to eliminate odor while providing long-lasting freshness.

Primal Pit Paste’s ingredients include organic arrowroot powder that blocks sweat glands without the use of metals. Among other ingredients you’ll find in it are shea butter, coconut oil, lime essential oil, sunflower oil and vitamin E.

You’ll also like Primal Pit Paste’s soothing lavender scent that’s suitable for men and women.

Bottom Line

Primal Pit Paste is a favorite among many customers who seek all-natural and effective grooming products. It helps fight odor while also absorbing moisture.

7. Schmidt’s Deodorant Stick

Best features:

• Non-greasy, non-sticky feel
• Premium natural ingredients
• Excellent scent

Best deodorant for:

• Men who want a natural product that effectively fights odor

Overview

Schmidt’s formed in 2010 in Portland, Oregon to create natural grooming products along with a “Mission to Change the Way You Think About Natural.” So far, so good, especially when you examine products like its Deodorant Stick.

The latter is another effective product that makes the most of premium natural ingredients that won’t irritate the skin while providing long-lasting protection against odor and wetness.

All of its ingredients are certified vegan and cruelty-free, and it doesn’t contain potential irritants such as aluminum, propylene glycol, parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrance. It’s also gluten-free.

It does, however, have a natural scent of cedarwood and juniper that’s hard to resist and suitable for men and women.

Then again, Schmidt’s is known for its signature scents that are unlike any others, and you can also purchase their deodorant stick in lime and bergamot, lavender, sage, and so on.

We appreciate several other things about their deodorant stick, including that it has a non-greasy, non-sticky feel, and that it’s absorbed by the skin easily.

Schmidt’s award-winning formulas help neutralize odor while keeping you fresh naturally. It includes baking soda in its deodorant that neutralizes odor. It’s a bit firmer than other deodorants but, again, it isn’t messy or sticky, and it won’t stain clothing.

Among the ingredients you find in the Schmidt’s Deodorant Stick are jojoba seed oil, juniper fruit essential oil, vitamin E (derived from sunflower oil), arrowroot powder, and coconut oil.

Another of its many attributes is that you only need to apply a small amount of it to get long-lasting odor protection.

Meanwhile, it also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee that includes returns, exchanges, and even advice from the Schmidt’s team.

Bottom Line

Schmidt’s is another company that believes grooming products don’t need to be packed with chemicals to work effectively. Their deodorant stick utilizes a condensed formula that provides maximum odor protection.

The 7 best antiperspirants for men 2020

1. Jack Black Pit Boss Antiperspirant & Deodorant

Best features:

• Provides excellent protection against wetness
• Great for men with sensitive skin
• Also helps fight odor

The best antiperspirant for:

Men who want a gentle, non-irritating antiperspirant

Overview

First, about the name – Jack Black’s “Pit Boss,” though aptly named, refers to a casino pit boss who needs to remain calm and confident during a hectic evening on the floor. That means staying dry and odor-free, as well.

So, a pit boss, or anyone would be wise to choose Jack Black’s antiperspirant when the heat is on, so to speak, although any man will benefit from this excellent product.

Like all of Jack Black’s products, the Pit Boss antiperspirant is dermatologist tested, paraben-free, cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and doesn’t contain harsh surfactants.

That makes it ideal for men with sensitive skin who desire a strong antiperspirant that won’t irritate the skin.

The Pit Boss Antiperspirant & Deodorant comes in a solid stick format that’s invisible when applied and won’t leave an unsightly residue on clothing.

The primary active ingredient in the Pit Boss antiperspirant is aluminum zirconium which provides advanced protection against wetness.

It also contains natural ingredients such as vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant that protects against free-radical damage, and aloe leaf juice, an emollient that hydrates and softens the skin while protecting against inflammation.

Pit Boss also offers a powerful one-two punch thanks to the deodorant element of the occasion. The deodorant has a manly, well-balanced fragrance that you, and others, will love.

Bottom Line

Jack Black specializes in men’s grooming products that get the job done without the use of harsh and potentially harmful chemicals. Their Pit Boss Antiperspirant & Deodorant is a prime example, and it gets the job done effectively.

2. MAXIM Antiperspirant Deodorant Roll-On

Best features:

• Prescription-strength
• Long-lasting perspiration protection
• Recommended by dermatologists

Best men’s antiperspirant for:

• Anyone looking for an extra-strength antiperspirant

Overview

Maxim says its Antiperspirant Deodorant Roll-On provides up to 96 hours of protection against excessive sweater. That’s saying a lot, but if many reviewers are quick to back this claim.

That’s not necessarily a surprise, either, because Maxim’s roll-on is considered “prescription strength,” so that saying something, too.

It contains 15% aluminum chloride, and aluminum-based deodorants plug sweat ducts while greatly reducing skin moisture accumulation.

What it won’t do is sting and burn sensitive skin because it doesn’t contain alcohol. If your skin is irritated easily, but you don’t want to sacrifice long-lasting protection, then this antiperspirant roll-on is worth checking out.

Maxim recommends applying their product at bedtime when sweat glands are less active. And, again, one application should last you a few days. It comes in a four-pack, and each container lasts up to two years once it’s opened.

Bottom Line

You won’t find many customers who don’t give Maxim’s roll-on antiperspirant a full thumb’s up. It treats excessive sweating almost immediately.

3. SweatBlock Antiperspirant

Best features:

• Lasts a long time
• Clinical strength
• Safe to wear with any clothing

The best antiperspirant for:

• Men who sweat excessively

Overview

SweatBlock’s antiperspirant is strong stuff, perhaps stronger than any other product on the market. That’s good news for men who sweat a lot, because SweatBlock is formulated for everyone, but particularly for anyone who sweats excessively.

Even better, it’s effective for use on other areas of the body (not just your armpits) such as your hands, feet, back, neck, face, etc. But we love it because of how it stop underarm wetness.

SweatBlock has a “clinical strength” rating and a thumb’s up from New York physician Dr. Keri Peterson, who has extolled its virtues on a variety of national TV networks.

More importantly, however, it has the approval of many, many men who didn’t get the results they wanted from other antiperspirants.

SweatBlock comes in a towelette form that you dab onto each armpit. The keyword is “dab” because rubbing it in may irritate the skin. Also, make sure you allow your underarms to dry completely before going to bed or before getting on with your day.

Many users appreciate SweatBlock because it’s safe to wear with any clothing since it doesn’t leave unsightly sweat marks behind. Moreover, there’s no need to cover up in dark or baggy clothing to hide armpit sweat.

SweatBlock also markets its antiperspirant as being long-lasting; it even claims you can get 7-days of dry armpits per application. But they advise first-time users to apply it daily for up to four days until you get completely dry armpits.

Bottom Line

SweatBlock’s clinical strength antiperspirant is an ideal product for men who sweat excessively. Even better, it’s versatile enough for use on other parts of your body. It’s the best antiperspirant for excessive sweating.

4. ZeroSweat Antiperspirant Deodorant 

Best features:

• Extremely strong
• Doesn’t clog the pores
• One bottle lasts 2 months

Best antiperspirant for:

• Solving extreme sweating problems

Overview

ZeroSweat’s name might sound pretty bold, but when you actually test the product, you’ll see that it does legitimately live up to it.

With its clinical Strength Hyperhidrosis Treatments, this is actually the highest strength deodorant you can get without a prescription. Their unique formula actually gets absorbed by your sweat glands and stops them from producing sweat directly.

A single application is designed to completely stop your sweating for an entire month, it can be worn with any color or style of clothing without staining and a single bottle lasts around 2 months.

All of which sounds pretty impressive, right?

So why isn’t this the deodorant every man is using?

Well, the thing is, the strength is really intense, and honestly for men who are simple after a nice smelling deodorant that will keep them relatively dry might best look elsewhere.

This really is for the hardcore, the sweaters who just can’t stop and find their lives made significantly more difficult because of the embarrassment.

Traditionally, most men with this kind of excessive sweating issue would have costly treatments which were invasive and scary. But ZeroSweat provides an over-the-counter solution which is cost effective and far, far less time consuming and invasive.

Of course, you don’t have to have a clinical problem with sweating to use ZeroSweat, and many men who find themselves stressed by their sweat but not pathological will do well to try it.

But they should be warned – this stuff really is strong, you best be careful.

Bottom Line

An extreme intervention, but one that will be a gamechanger for many men. Be careful with it, but ZeroSweat is a pretty impressive product all told.

5. Certain Dri Antiperspirant Roll-On

Best features:

• Perhaps the strongest antiperspirant on the market
• A little goes a long way
• Long-lasting

Best antiperspirant for:

• Men who need strong antiperspirant protection

Overview

Like SweatBlock’s antiperspirant, Certain Dri’s Prescription Strength Clinical Antiperspirant Roll-On provides powerful protection against excessive sweating. If you’re a guy who sweats a lot, this is another product for which you should give serious consideration.

Certain Dri contains 12% aluminum chloride and aluminum is the ingredient that does an antiperspirant’s heavy lifting. It blocks the sweat glands to prevent the release of perspiration.

It also includes sodium hydroxide – which acts as a neutralizer for aluminum acidity – and a thickening agent.

Certain Dri recommends that you apply their antiperspirant at night because its active ingredients work the best overnight and will prevent sweating the next day. We’ll talk more about applying antiperspirant at night a bit later.

If you want, you can re-apply Certain Dri’s antiperspirant in the morning for an extra layer of protection and freshness, especially if you sweat quite a bit as you sleep, but it’s not necessary in most cases.

No matter how often you use it, however, you only need to apply it sparingly; a few swipes under each arm is enough.

Bottom Line

Some men sweat more than others and products like Certain Dri’s Prescription Strength antiperspirant have them covered. It’s a strong antiperspirant, as its name suggests and lasts a long time.

6. HyperDri Aluminum-Free Antiperspirant

Best features:

• Doesn’t contain aluminum
• Long-lasting protection
• Also reduces body odor

Best antiperspirant for:

• Men whose skin can’t tolerate aluminum

Overview

It’s not easy to find antiperspirants that don’t include aluminum as one of its ingredients but HyperDri is among the few.

It also claims to have created the first aluminum-free antiperspirant; whether that’s technically true or not isn’t as important as the fact that it gets the job done.

Developed by Klima Deodorant, a company located in Wisconsin, HyerDri comes in a serum that you spray on your fingers and massage into your underarms.

Instead of aluminum, HyperDri contains peptides that penetrate the skin while forming a barrier to keep perspiration low.

The peptides are botox-like, although they’re not as effective as the botox injections commonly used to reduce excessive sweating. But Klima thinks they’re more effective than aluminum compounds, which may be too large to penetrate skin pores.

HyperDri also contains natural essential oils such as lavender and tea tree oil that soothes the skin while also reducing the bacteria that creates underarm odor.

Because it doesn’t contain aluminum, the HyperDri Antiperspirant may take a bit longer than other products to show its effects. That said, you should use it every day until it gives you the best results. Once that happens, it’s OK to skip a day or two between applications.

More good news: one bottle of HyperDri Aluminum should you last a couple of months, if not more, because you don’t have to use an excessive amount of it for it to be effective.

Bottom Line

HyperDri offers a good alternative to anyone looking for an antiperspirant that doesn’t include aluminum. It’s a soothing, effective product that stops sweat in its tracks.

7. Degree MotionSense Antiperspirant

Best features

• Long-lasting protection
• Goes on dry, not messy
• MotionSense technology

Best antiperspirant for:

• Active men who are always on the go

Overview

There’s a reason that Degree is among the most popular antiperspirant/deodorant brands out there: their products work.

Degree’s MotionSense Antiperspirant Deodorant is certainly no exception, and it’s a unique product in a lot of ways. Most notably, it features MotionSense technology that responds to your body’s movement and releases extra wetness protection as you move.

The more you move, the more it protects.

What’s the science behind MotionSense? It features microcapsules that sit on the surface of the skin. When you move, friction breaks down those microcapsules which, in turn, release more protection and fragrance.

It also doubles as a deodorant and has a rugged fragrance with notes of woods, musk, fresh pepper, and citrus. It will keep you smelling fresh all day while the MotionSense technology has you covered when you sweat.

Degree’s MotionSense Antiperspirant features a spray application that, Degree advises, you should apply while keeping the spray applicator six inches away from your underarms.

But another one of its many strong points is that it goes on dry and has a cleaner feel than many other antiperspirants.

It contains no water or alcohol, which can leave a wet feeling and explains why Degree’s MotionSense goes on dry and leaves no residue that can stain clothing.

MotionSense is also a long-lasting antiperspirant that should provide up to 48 hours of protection per application, although there’s nothing wrong with applying it every day.

Bottom Line

Degree’s MotionSense Antiperspirant/Deodorant packs a powerful one-two punch for fighting underarm wetness and odor. It goes on dry and keeps working even when you’re most active.

How to apply deodorant in 5 easy-to-follow steps (A simple, illustrated guide)

If you’re like a lot of men, you apply your deodorant without really thinking about it. You know the drill: lift your arm, apply a layer of deodorant, and call it good enough. That doesn’t mean that you’re applying it the correct way, however.

Let’s break it down to ensure that you’re getting most from your deodorant while keeping your ‘pits fresh and clean.

1. Slow down

We understand that getting out the door in the morning often is a race against time but correctly applying deodorant means taking your time. At the least, slow down enough to make sure that you give your entire underarm area an even coating of deodorant.

You should also apply enough pressure that you do more than coat your underarm hair. Make sure that you get down to the skin

2. When you apply deodorant

The best time to apply deodorant is after you’ve showered or otherwise cleaned your armpits. Also,     make sure that your ‘pits are completely dry before application.

However, the best time to apply deodorants that also include an antiperspirant is at bedtime, because antiperspirant blocks sweat and needs some time to set in. Letting it sit on your skin overnight helps it to work most effectively.

However, there is a school of thought that says applying your deodorant – without an antiperspirant – at night (again, after a shower) is effective. You can always apply another layer in the morning if some of the deodorant’s freshness is lost overnight.

In general, however, it’s a good idea to apply another layer of deodorant after every time you shower.

3. Know your skin type

Carefully read a deodorant’s ingredients before you buy it and before you apply it. You need to take your skin type into account. Deodorants with a higher alcohol content – as found in many sprays and gels – can irritate the skin, especially if it’s sensitive.

4. The best method for applying deodorant spray

As with any deodorant, you should apply spray after you’ve cleaned and dried your underarms. Shake the spray can for about 10 seconds to mix the ingredients.

Hold the can a few inches away from your armpit before you spray. Spray an even layer of deodorant over your underarm, which should take about four or five seconds. The spray should dry fairly quickly.

       5. How much should you apply?

The amount of deodorant you apply is a matter of personal preference but you may want to reduce the amount if you notice a residue on your clothes.

How to apply antiperspirant in 4 easy-to-follow steps

As with deodorant, there’s a right way and wrong way to apply antiperspirant.

But, before you get started, make sure it’s an antiperspirant and not a deodorant. That may sound obvious but keep in mind – deodorants mask odor while antiperspirants block sweat. Antiperspirants contain aluminum chlorides that block sweat ducts.

1. Apply antiperspirant at night

Many men apply antiperspirant as part of their morning routine, usually after their shower. The problem is, antiperspirant needs some time to set in and when you apply it in the morning you begin to sweat before it has time to begin working.

However, if you apply it at night it has a better chance to take hold.

Also, sweat glands are typically less active at night, which means there’s less of a chance that your antiperspirant washes away. And you don’t have to worry about it wearing off during the day because antiperspirants continue working for up to 24 hours.

2. Make sure your armpits are dry

Always make sure your armpits are dry before you apply antiperspirant. If you apply it after you shower, as most people do, the humidity of the bathroom can keep your armpits damp.

Antiperspirants need a clean, dry area from which to work so that the aluminum compounds can get into the sweat pores and block it.

3. How to apply each type of antiperspirant

How you apply antiperspirant depends upon whether it’s a roll-on, aerosol spray, or antiperspirant stick:

• Roll-on

Apply one or two strokes of roll-on to your armpit and allow it to dry before you put on your pajamas or go to bed. Make sure that you allow your antiperspirant to completely dry before you put on your sleepwear – if you don’t, it may be wiped off by your clothing.

• Aerosol

Shake the aerosol container thoroughly to mix the antiperspirant’s ingredients before application. Hold the can about six inches from your armpit and apply the antiperspirant with short, sharp sprays.

• Stick

Apply two or three strokes of your antiperspirant stick to each underarm. There’s no need to slather it on – as with a roll-on – but instead apply a thin layer that still blocks pores effectively. It takes longer to dry and wastes product if you apply it in excess.

4. Keep your ‘pits trimmed

For best results, keep your armpits well-manscaped either by shaving them completely or by keeping them well-trimmed. It’s best to shave in the morning before applying your antiperspirant at night to avoid pain and irritation.

16 Tips when using deodorant and antiperspirant

Deodorant

1. Don’t hesitate to switch your deodorant brand twice a year even if you love the brand you use now. Your body can become immune to a certain brand after a while.
2. Don’t just apply deodorant to your underarm hair; instead, rub it down to the skin.
3. If you’re like some men, your manscaping routine includes shaving your underarms. If so, allow some time for your skin to dry before applying your deodorant. Applying deodorant to damp skin increases the potential for developing a skin rash or another underarm irritation.
4. Deodorant by itself won’t stop you from sweating. Use deodorant and antiperspirant – or a product that can do both – to fight sweat and odor effectively.
5. Don’t continue to use a deodorant that irritates your skin or causes a rash or burning. It may mean that you need to buy natural products or those that don’t contain alcohol, fragrance, essential oils, parabens, lanolin, or propylene glycol. Keep in mind that what causes your skin to react may not cause the same reaction for someone else.
6. Your deodorant may not be the reason why you get those white stripes on your shirt when you put it on after applying deodorant. Instead, it may be the fit of the fabric; if a shirt is tight in your underarm, the greater the chances of leaving deodorant residue behind.
7. You can apply deodorant to different parts of your body, including on areas where your shoes rub your feet and may cause blisters.

Antiperspirant

There are several things you can do to make sure that you’re getting the most from your antiperspirant, whether it’s one that you purchase over-the-counter or one that’s prescribed to you by a physician.

1. Always make sure that it’s not a deodorant only but is either an antiperspirant alone (always a good choice) or one that’s combined with a deodorant.
2. You can often gently massage the antiperspirant into your skin for better absorption.
3. Test the antiperspirant on another area of the skin to make sure it doesn’t cause irritation.
4. While it’s best to apply antiperspirant in the evening, as we discussed above, you can make another application in the morning. Some people get the best results from their antiperspirant by applying it twice.
5. Always apply your antiperspirant to completely dry skin.
6. You can use aerosol antiperspirants products to help manage sweaty feet.
7. If you use an antiperspirant prescribed by a physician, always follow his or her instructions for how, when, and how often you should use it.
8. If your manscaping routine includes shaving your underarms, wait 24 or 48 hours before applying your prescription antiperspirant.
9. If you sweat excessively, you may want to choose an antiperspirant with higher levels of aluminum chloride. You can also talk to your doctor about getting a prescription-strength antiperspirant.

10 Type of deodorants and antiperspirant you can choose from

As our reviews show, there’s no one-size-fits-all regarding deodorants and antiperspirants. Brands and products vary in many ways and you have plenty of options from which to choose.

Keep in mind that most of the types – roll-on, stick, gel, etc. – are common to deodorants and antiperspirants.

1. Solid

“Solid” refers to this deodorant or antiperspirant’s creamy, bar form. Many, many people use solid deodorants and they do melt when applied to the underarm easily. Invisible solids come in a white, powdery format that applies clear and dry.

They’re an excellent choice for anyone who worries about leaving deodorant residue on their clothes.

2. Roll-on

Roll-on is another popular option and it basically consists of a liquid deodorant that has a ball tip applicator on top of the container. A somewhat common issue with roll-on deodorants and antiperspirants is that they can leave residue behind.

3. Gel

Gel deodorants consist of a thick liquid that goes on fairly wet when applied, but dries clear. They’re usually very effective in fighting body odor but may also leave a residue behind, especially if you apply too much.

4. Aerosol

Spray deodorant (aerosol) still exists although it’s not quite as popular as it was when it was basically the only deodorant option on the market. They typically have a powdery finish when dry.

You can also share aerosol deodorant with others because the applicator never touches the skin – or, at least it shouldn’t.

5. Wipes

Individually-packed wipes represent another option for deodorant. They’re good for one use and disposable. They’re a handy option to have when you travel, or even for during the workday when you may need to freshen up a bit.

6. Paste

Some deodorants come in a paste form – such as Primal Pit Paste, which we include in our reviews of the best deodorants – and generally consist of natural ingredients. They’re a healthy alternative to many of the artificial deodorants on the market.

7. Crystal

Crystal deodorants consist of natural mineral salts and don’t include potentially harsh chemicals in their list of ingredients. They’re a good choice for men with sensitive skin.

8. Antiperspirant deodorant

We’ve already talked a lot about deodorants that double as antiperspirants, and vice versa, but – as their name suggests – they fight odor while also blocking the sweat glands from producing excess perspiration.

9. Scented or unscented

Whether you choose a deodorant that has a scent or one that doesn’t is, again, a matter of personal preference. If you wear cologne or another type of fragrance be careful that it doesn’t clash with the smell of your deodorant.

10. Cream

You can buy both deodorant and antiperspirants – as well as products that serve both roles – in a cream form. Cream applies to the skin easily and you can apply it to the skin more than once a day as long as you don’t use an excessive amount.

A quality antiperspirant worth checking out is the ARRID Extra Dry Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Cream.

How we chose the best deodorants and antiperspirants

The primary criterion for choosing the best products for our reviews above is effectiveness. That is, they must accomplish what they’re designed to do, i.e., stop underarm odor and wetness.

We studied each product carefully, as well as the reviews of others (including customers) to make sure that each product worked as advertised, and not just some of the time.

We also considered each product’s list of ingredients. We prefer products with natural, organic ingredients that won’t potentially harm the skin, but that doesn’t mean we exclude all others.

Other factors included cost (we try to cover a wide price range), how long the product lasts before re-application, which is more important for antiperspirants, sand its scent, if it has one.

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

How does antiperspirant work?

Antiperspirants work by reducing the body’s sweat production. Aluminum salts found in antiperspirants dissolve on the skin’s surface and form a gel that sits on top of the sweat glands to limit the release of sweat.

What does antiperspirant mean?

Antiperspirant refers to a type of substance that, when applied to the skin, stops the production of sweat. The active ingredients in antiperspirants often include aluminum salts and alcohol.

How to remove deodorant stains

There are several ways to get deodorant stains out of clothes, many of which make use of common household items. Examples including white vinegar, water and lemon juice, baking soda and water, laundry detergent, and more.

When was deodorant invented?

The first trademarked deodorant, called “Mum,” hit the marketplace in 1888 in Philadelphia. But the quest for decreasing body odor goes way back, all the way to ancient Egyptians to be exact.

What is the strongest antiperspirant?

While there are many strong antiperspirants on the market, including all of those we list in our reviews above, Certain Dri’s clinical strength roll-on antiperspirant is probably the strongest of them all.

What is the deodorant challenge?

The deodorant “challenge” is an internet challenge in which adolescents (and younger) boys and girls spray aerosol deodorant on bare skin for as long the person can stand it. It can have a lasting negative impact, including burns to the skin.

What is the best deodorant for men who sweat a lot?

Men who sweat a lot, particularly active men, require a strong deodorant. Art of Sport’s Deodorant Stick works especially well for those men because, in part, it also serves as an antiperspirant.

How do you remove deodorant buildup from shirts?

The deodorant buildup and stains left on shirts are not only unsightly, but are often hard to get out in the laundry. But products such as white vinegar, ammonia, and alcohol-based cleaners can get the job done.

How to remove antiperspirant from armpits

There are many methods for removing antiperspirant from your armpits, including by using a mixture of baking soda and water. Mix the two ingredients until you have a paste and then spread the paste on your armpits. Rinse the past off in the shower.

How does deodorant work?

Deodorants contain chemicals and other ingredients that kill or block bacteria produced by your armpits that cause odor. The bacteria feed on the fats and proteins in sweat that create an unpleasant odor.

Why is aluminum in deodorant bad?

There’s a lot of debate about the potential negative health consequences of aluminum when absorbed by the skin, consequences which may include hormone imbalance, Alzheimer’s, etc.

But many experts say that the amount of aluminum absorbed isn’t enough to cause harm.

How long does deodorant last?

Deodorant, unlike antiperspirant, isn’t required to list an expiration date, but it can last for up to a year and even more. You can extend its life by storing it in a cool place.

Why do my armpits sweat so much even with deodorant?

This question gets back to the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant: deodorant reduces or eliminates bacteria that cause odor, while antiperspirant blocks sweat glands. That’s why it’s important to use both a deodorant and an antiperspirant.

How do you heal underarm rash from natural deodorant?

Some people experience a rash or other irritations from natural deodorant, especially if using it for the first time. Some solutions include properly cleansing your armpits with a gentle body bar that also exfoliates dead skin cells.

Also, natural deodorants with pure, organic essentials oils help minimize irritations.

What size deodorant can I take on a plane?

Transportation Security Administration rules say you can bring any size of solid deodorant with you when you travel by air, but spray, gel, liquid and other types can be no more than 3.4-ounces.

Conclusion

Choosing the right deodorant and antiperspirant is a fact of life for men and an important decision. Whether you sweat a lot, are prone to body odor, or not, a product that provides odor and wetness protection is essential.

We hope the list above provides you with some good buying options.

We welcome your comments and suggestions, as well. What type of deodorant or antiperspirant do you use? Why do you like it? We’d love to hear from you.

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