We Found the 9 Best Deodorants for Men After Working Up a Sweat

Men’s Deodorants We Also Tested

We tested 35 deodorants and antiperspirants, but only nine impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. While we liked some of these deodorants’ features, they didn’t meet our rigorous testing requirements to be selected as top picks.

• Gillette’s Clinical Advanced Soft Solid has a fresh fragrance that lasts and keeps body odor at bay. But, we found that it has a messy transfer, and it’s not as effective at reducing sweat as the other products we tested.
• Dove’s Men Care Clinical Deodorant Stick didn’t live up to its clinical strength claim in our testing. While the product’s fragrance smells clean and fresh, our armpits had a noticeable odor after just 15 minutes on the treadmill.

What to Look for When Shopping for Men’s Deodorants

• Ingredients: The most common active ingredient in deodorants and antiperspirants is aluminum, says Garshick. While antiperspirants containing aluminum are thought to be the most effective at reducing sweat, there are many other options. Natural ingredients like tea tree oil, baking soda, and activated charcoal are believed to be gentler on the skin, have antibacterial properties, and effectively absorb moisture. 
• Application Type: You’ll find several options for applying deodorant, which comes down to personal preference. Options include sprays, roll-ons, gels, solids, invisible solids, and wipes. Choose one that works for you and your lifestyle. 
• Strength and Longevity: If you have hyperhidrosis, look for clinical-strength antiperspirants with a high percentage of aluminum, says Penzi. On the other hand, if you have sensitive skin or want to opt for more natural antibacterial ingredients, look for aluminum-free products. However, natural deodorants and antiperspirants typically don’t provide the same strength and longevity as clinical strength products.

How We Tested the Deodorants for Men

To find the best deodorants for men, we tested 35 options in our Lab and at home, wearing them while working out, commuting, and going about our daily routines. When testing men’s deodorants, we evaluate each option based on the following key criteria.

• Efficacy: To ensure each product effectively curbs sweat and odor, we apply the deodorant to our underarms and complete heart-rate-elevating activity, including running on the treadmill, fitness walking, and jumping jacks. After our workout, we sniff and feel our armpits, noting any lingering odor or sweat. Then, we continue to wear the product for 24 hours during our daily routine, including for additional workouts, recording any noticeable sweat or odor at the end of the day. We prioritize long-lasting deodorants that keep us smelling fresh and reduce or eliminate excess sweat.
• Texture: We seek out deodorants that go on smoothly and have a comfortable, non-sticky texture. We prefer formulas that dry quickly, with a matte, non-chalky feel that doesn’t irritate our skin.
• Scent: We evaluate the scent of each deodorant, prioritizing products with a fresh, long-lasting scent. We consider whether the scent may be too strong for individuals sensitive to fragrances and note if the scent lasts for a full 24 hours.
• Transfer Resistance: Certain deodorants and antiperspirants combine with sweat and transfer to clothing, creating potentially stubborn stains or leaving white marks on darker clothing. We note whether each product transfers to our clothing after the initial application and a full day of wear. We prioritize men’s deodorants that leave behind no residue. 
• Value: To determine the value of each option, we don’t look at its price until after we evaluate all other key criteria. We prioritize men’s deodorants worth the same or less than what we’d consider paying for them based on their performance.  

Our Experts

We spoke with experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts helped us better understand what key features, including ingredients, to look for in a high-quality men’s deodorant and how they impact sweat, odor, and health. While we choose products independently, expert guidance influences our final choices. 

• Yolanda C. Holmes, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and surgeon in Washington, DC
• Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in New York
• Lauren Penzi, MD, board-certified dermatologist in New York
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

Can women use men’s deodorant?

Yes, anyone can wear men’s deodorants. Look for one with a fragrance you like and a formula that works well for your needs.

Is men’s deodorant stronger than women’s deodorant?

No, the ingredients that work in deodorants are the same regardless of the gender they’re marketed to. The only differences tend to be the fragrance options and how it’s marketed.

Is deodorant the same as antiperspirant?

Deodorant and antiperspirant aren’t the same. Deodorant uses antibacterials to rid the skin of the bacteria that cause body odor, much like antibacterial body washes, while antiperspirants use chemicals to plug the endocrine glands and temporarily reduce sweat.

Should I apply deodorants or antiperspirants before bed?

It’s most effective to use an antiperspirant on completely dry skin at night because the sweat glands aren’t active at this time, allowing them to absorb more of the aluminum, says Garshick. Deodorants can be applied in the morning and throughout the day to freshen up. 

Are products with aluminum safe to use?

There has been some concern about this ingredient relating to cancer or other harmful health effects, but there is not enough evidence to suggest an increased risk associated with aluminum in antiperspirants, says Garshick. While aluminum can irritate sensitive skin, it remains FDA-approved for use in antiperspirants as the primary sweat-reducing ingredient. If you have a chronic health condition, talk to your doctor about whether you should avoid aluminum-based deodorants.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Megan Foley is a Verywell Fit writer and professional ballet dancer. With over eight years of writing experience, she’s passionate about translating meticulous research into compelling content. Megan has tried countless deodorants and antiperspirants over the years to stay fresh during long rehearsal days, understanding the importance of all-day sweat protection. She counts on clear, long-lasting formulas that don’t transfer onto costumes for performances. 

Additional reporting contributed by Michelle Parente, CYT

Michelle Parente, CYT, is a Verywell Fit writer and editor passionate about making great product recommendations. Michelle frequently attends hot yoga classes and leads a busy lifestyle, so she knows the importance of finding a quality deodorant that gets the job done.