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Best Deodorant for Women Without Aluminum
Native Aluminum-Free Deodorant in Coconut & Vanilla
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Sweating is a natural process that occurs to regulate body temperature — but along with sweat often comes that telltale smell, damp and sticky skin, and even stubborn clothing stains. Thankfully, there are many deodorants and antiperspirants on the market to keep wetness and body odor in check, from strong sweat blockers to aluminum-free options in an array of formulas like sprays, roll-ons, sticks and more.
To find the best deodorants for women, our Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab scientists have evaluated dozens of deodorant and antiperspirant formulas on how well they block odor and sweat, plus how they smell and feel on skin. Here, the most effective deodorants and antiperspirants for any preference, including natural deodorants without aluminum, powerful formulas for those who sweat a lot, top picks for sensitive skin and more.
But before you choose the best deodorant for your needs, it's important to know the difference between deodorants and antiperspirants. Deodorants are made with ingredients that mask or ward off body odor; they do not stop sweat. Antiperspirants, per their name, do prevent perspiration: They contain active ingredients like aluminum and zirconium salts that form gel-like plugs in sweat ducts, stopping sweat from reaching the skin’s surface, and are often formulated with deodorants as well.
While you may have heard rumors that aluminum in deodorant may not be safe, "research to date shows deodorants and antiperspirants are not linked to an increased risk of cancer," says Janiene Luke, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, California.
Pros
- Lasting odor protection
- Skin-softening formula
- Refillable packaging
- Made without aluminum
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
A GH Beauty Award winner, Dove’s popular aluminum-free deodorant has gone sustainable in sleek refillable packaging that aims to reduce plastic waste. The case even comes with a lifetime guarantee. (Be aware that this formula is solely a deodorant and not an antiperspirant, so it does not prevent sweating.) In addition to long-lasting odor blockers, it's packed with moisturizing ingredients for softer skin.
“One of the best product launches I’ve seen in my career and definitely prevents malodors,” says former GH Beauty Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D. Others agree: “I am blown away by this product — it's the only deodorant without antiperspirant that’s kept me smelling good all day long and feels light," says Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek. Beauty Assistant Catharine Malzahn adds that "it doesn’t leave any white marks on even my black shirts!"
Size | 1.13 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Fruity floral |
Pros
- Strong odor and sweat blocking
- Created to wear during intense physical activity
- Bargain price
Cons
- Scent is polarizing
Created specifically for athletes and those in constant motion (hence the name!), bargain-priced Degree is a great choice for active women thanks to its powerful odor and sweat protection. "It's advertised as 48-hour protection and it does just that, even after a hike/workout," one reviewer reported. Though many are fans of the sweet fruity-floral scent (including GH's beauty director), others found it too strong.
Size | 2.6 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Stick |
Scent | Fruity floral |
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Pros
- Aluminum-free formula
- All-day odor protection
- Great scent
Cons
- Can leave white marks on clothing
- Not an antiperspirant
This popular Native deodorant, made without aluminum but with odor-absorbing baking soda and tapioca starch, is another of Malzahn's favorite formulas. "It prevents smells all day and I love the subtly sweet scent, which isn't overpowering," she says. (Note that it's not an antiperspirant, so it won't protect against sweat, and Malzahn found it left white marks on shirts. )
Size | 2.65 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Stick |
Scent | Sweet |
4
Best Women's Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
Dove Ultimate Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick in Jasmine & Vanilla
Pros
- Refreshing and soothing water-based formula
- Protects against odor and sweat
- Appealing scent
Cons
- Takes a few seconds to dry on skin
Dove's unique water-based deodorant/antiperspirant stick soothes skin on contact and contains softening ingredients like glycerin and sunflower oil. "It has the great odor and sweat protection you expect from the brand and unlike other formulas, feels cooling and refreshing when you apply it," GH's beauty director explains. "I also love that it has more of a sophisticated floral aroma rather than smelling powdery." While it is lightweight on skin, it does take a few seconds to dry down.
Size | 2.6 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Stick |
Scent | Floral-sweet |
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5
Best Roll-On Deodorant for Women
Ban Antiperspirant Deodorant Original Roll-On in Satin Breeze
Now 76% Off
Pros
- Lightweight liquid formula
- Effectively wards off sweat and odor
- Great value
Cons
- Initially feels wet on skin
The classic bargain Ban formula rolls an antiperspirant/deodorant liquid onto skin for odor and sweat protection without a heavy feel. Wnek is a fan of the brand's stick deodorant for keeping her "dry and smelling fresh all day long" as well as this roll-on, although she says it can feel wet upon application.
Size | 3.5 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Liquid |
Scent | Fruity-fresh |
Pros
- Refreshing gel formula
- Powerful odor and wetness protection
- Bargain price
Cons
- Unscented but not fragrance-free
Go back to basics with Dry Idea's light gel formula that's a strong shield against wetness and unwanted smells. "This is my favorite gel antiperspirant, which I have been using for years," says GH Beauty Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler. "Because it's unscented, it doesn't compete with the perfume I wear yet keeps body odor from breaking through."
She also praises that the great value gel "dries quickly," keeps her "dry all day," and "you don't have to apply much to get long-lasting sweat protection." For those with fragrance allergies or sensitivites, note that formulas labeled "unscented" like this may contain subtle masking fragrances.
Size | 3 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Gel |
Scent | Unscented |
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Pros
- Soft cream formula
- Absorbs moisture and reduces body odor
- High-end fragrance
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
- Pricey
Not your average deodorant, aluminum-free AKT is a creamy balm infused with skin-conditioning ingredients like shea butter and sophisticated scents created from essential oils. Even though it's not an anti-perspirant, Butler was impressed by its performance.
"I’m typically an antiperspirant user, but this paste made with moisture-absorbing powders like arrowroot powder and diatomaceous earth kept me dry and kept body odor barely noticeable, which other deodorants I’ve tried have not done," she says.
Size | 1.7 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Cream |
Scent | Woody, herbal |
8
Best Women's Deodorant for Heavy Sweating
Certain Dri Extra Strength Clinical Antiperspirant Deodorant
Pros
- Strong sweat protection
- High level of antiperspirant active ingredient
- Good odor protection
Cons
- Could be irritating
Women who sweat a lot, look no further than Certain Dri's clinical strength antiperspirant/deodorant, which lives up to its name. It's made with a high 25% concentration of the sweat-stopping active ingredient aluminum. "I recommend this for those who have excess sweating and need better control," Dr. Luke explains. If you have sensitive skin, note that some users reported irritation after use.
Size | 1.7 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Powder |
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Pros
- Appealing fresh, neutral scent
- Non-irritating
Cons
- Some users said the cap is difficult to remove
Not your typical powder- or floral-scented deodorant, this Degree solid stick instead has a unique, fresh mint and eucalyptus fragrance. "This deodorant immediately stood out for its neutral, almost spa-like aroma that's not overly feminine or masculine," says GH's beauty director. "Plus, it works and doesn't irritate my underarms, which can be sensitive to some formulas." A few GH editors commented that the cap was tricky to take off, however.
Size | 2.7 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Herbal |
10
Best Women's Deodorant for Strong Body Odor
Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response Antiperspirant Deodorant
Pros
- Potent odor and sweat-fighting ingredients
- High level of antiperspirant aluminum
Cons
- Some users had issues with the twist-up dial functioning
For those prone to heavy body odor (hello, smelly armpits!), opt for a deodorant labeled "clinical strength" like Secret's formula, which Dr. Luke recommends. Clinical strength deodorants like this one are the strongest over-the-counter option for those looking to combat serious body odor. With a high 20% level of aluminum zirconium (one of the most effective antiperspirant ingredients), it will effectively fight both stinky underarm aromas and moisture. The packaging can be tricky to use, though, as some GH editors who tried this pick found the twist-up dial didn't function or broke.
Size | 1.6 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Citrus |
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Pros
- Easy to apply spray formula
- Dries fast
- Can be used all over the body
- No visible residue
Cons
- Spray nozzle may be difficult to press
Dove's dry spray deodorant technology can convert even the most die-hard solid user into a spray fan. "For years I was a stick deodorant girl, but recently I switched to spray and I’m never going back," says GH Contributing Beauty Editor Dori Price. "I love that this dries super quickly and I never feel sticky after — I can get dressed right away!" Plus, the 3.8-ounce bottle can last for months. A drawback: Some users commented that the button to dispense the spray was difficult to push.
Size | 3.8 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Spray |
Scent | Fruity floral |
Pros
- Can be used all over the body
- Lasting odor protection
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
Odor isn't exclusive to our underarms: Sometimes things can get a little smelly on the rest of your body (ahem, even private parts). Behold Lumé's star product, which received praise in a study conducted by the GH Beauty Lab for being easy to use and providing long-lasting odor protection all over the body throughout the day.
(Note that because it is a deodorant and not an antiperspirant, it won't provide sweat protection.) “It seemed very effective, and the tube allowed me to apply liberally and to use it all over my body," one tester said. "Plus, it did not stain my clothing!"
Size | 3 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Lotion |
Scent | Herbal |
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Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Not irritating
- Great scent
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
Made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, beeswax and arrowroot powder, Freedom's deodorant formula is a GH beauty editor favorite. Although it's aluminum-free and therefore doesn't stop sweat, it's a good option for lower activity days. "I love that it's made without baking soda, which can irritate my skin, and that the coconut scent is subtle yet doesn't let odor through like other 'natural' deodorants can," one GH editor said.
Size | 1.9 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Sweet |
14
Best Clear Deodorant for Women
Dove Clear Finish 48-Hour Invisible Antiperspirant & Deodorant Dry Spray
Pros
- Easy to apply all over the body
- Clear formula won't leave marks on fabric
- Long-lasting sweat protection
Cons
- Fragrance is polarizing
GH Beauty Lab tested and approved, this Dove dry spray antiperspirant formula lives up to its "invisible" claim — our testers found it to be truly clear. The easy-to-apply spray didn't transfer onto the darkest of clothes and kept one editor's armpits sweat-free for over 24 hours. The scent is polarizing: While many users loved it, a few found it "overwhelming." The mist formula is also great for applying onto other areas of the body.
Size | 3.8 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Spray |
Scent | Fruity floral |
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Pros
- Free of potentially irritating fragrances
- Protects against sweat and odor
- Gentle on skin
Cons
- Gel goes on wet and takes time to dry down
- May not provide long enough odor protection for some
Dr. Luke recommends Vanicream's fragrance-free antiperspirant/deodorant for those who have sensitivity or are allergic to fragrances. "This deodorant is the first [fragrance-free deodorant] I've tried that actually works, without causing that awful itching or burning sensation," one Amazon reviewer said. Two caveats: The gel formula takes time to dry on skin and some users found it didn't give as long-lasting protection against odor.
Size | 2.2 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Gel |
Scent | None |
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Subtle scent
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
Wizemann is a loyal fan of this Nubian Heritage vegan deodorant formula. "I like its subtle scent and how gentle it feels on my skin, but still keeps things dry throughout the day," she notes. As with other aluminum-free deodorants, however, this one is not created to stop sweat.
Size | 2.25 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Fresh |
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Pros
- Neutral, lasting scent
- Baking soda-free
- Smooth glide
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
Mario Badescu's minimalist deodorant is a favorite of both Wizemann and her husband. "It is slightly scented, with traces of lemon and sage, but the scent doesn’t dissipate quickly and is unisex," she says. "I like it the most for how it easily glides onto skin thanks to its buttery texture and its powdery finish." (The aluminum-free formulation doesn't block sweat, though.) But unlike some other aluminum-free deodorants, "it doesn't contain baking soda, so there is no itchiness," Wizemann adds.
Size | 2.4 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Fresh |
Pros
- Aluminum-free
- Protects against odor
- Biodegradable packaging
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
- May be tricky to push up
Stay fresh with Eir NYC’s minimalist aluminum-free deodorant, a winner of GH's Sustainable Innovation Awards. Expert judges appreciated its simple biodegradable paper packaging. Testers needed a little practice with the push-up design, but they said they got good odor protection with this pick.
RELATED: 30 Best Eco-Friendly Products to Help You Live More Sustainably
Size | 1.5 oz. |
---|---|
Formula | Solid stick |
Scent | Herbal |
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19
Best Deodorant Wipes for Women
Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes with Coconut Milk & Essential Oils
Now 25% Off
Pros
- Can be used all over the body
- Easy to use
- Great scent
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
- May not be strong enough for serious odor
Wipes offer a quick and easy way to deodorize on-the-go. These Pacifica aluminum-free deodorant wipes, a GH beauty editor favorite, are made with coconut milk and shea and have a lightly sweet, tropical scent. "I glide these all over whenever I don't have time to shower and need a refresh," she says. Note that the towelettes won't prevent sweating and may not be strong enough to combat heavy odor.
Size | 30 per pack |
---|---|
Formula | Towelettes |
Scent | Sweet |
How we test the best deodorants for women
The GH Beauty Lab has tested dozens of deodorant and antiperspirant formulas on expert evaluators who use them in their everyday lives, judging them for efficacy of prevention of sweat and masking of body odor, texture, scent, residue, feel on skin and how long their effects last. This list includes GH Beauty Lab top-tested and expert-recommended products as well as picks from dermatologists.
April Franzino
Beauty Director
April (she/her) is the beauty director at Good Housekeeping, Prevention and Woman's Day, where she oversees all beauty content. She has over 15 years of experience under her belt, starting her career as an assistant beauty editor at GH in 2007, and working in the beauty departments of SELF and Fitness magazines.
Expert consulted:Chiara Butler
Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab Reviews Analyst
Chiara (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she conducts hands-on testing of health and beauty products. She earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Columbia University. Before joining GH in 2022, she worked as a cosmetic chemist, formulating skincare products for a variety of brands and learning to decode ingredient lists, evaluate ingredient efficacy and scrutinize product claims.