Sweating is a universal part of being human—an essential, yet often embarrassing, natural body activity. However, here’s one of those unavoidable truths about personal hygiene: while sweating is beneficial for regulating body temperature, no one wants to be the guy known for his “offensive” body odor.
Fortunately, preventing body odor is entirely possible with the RIGHT deodorant. We say RIGHT because some people are single-handedly keeping the fake deodorant industry in business. There are so many knockoffs and coupled with the readily cheap products in drugstores, BOs might never go out of the trending bad hygiene habits for a long while.
Deodorants come in various forms—sticks, sprays, creams—and the right one may require some trial and error, but we’ve done all the groundwork so you don’t have to. Getting a pricier, and more effective deodorant is far better than trying out dozens of cheap ones that immediately notify people that you’ve been marinating in your ‘natural essence’ all day.
These days, the best deodorants are often formulated with ingredients that help absorb moisture, even if they don’t stop sweat entirely. Keep in mind that deodorants don’t stop sweat; that’s the job of antiperspirants, which contain aluminum to block sweat glands. If you’re concerned about sweating but prefer to avoid aluminum, a deodorant might be the perfect fit. But if you don’t mind, then you need to be on the lookout for our next post on the Best Antiperspirants for Men and Women.
Our Top Picks for the Best Deodorants for Men
Salt & Stone Extra Strength Deodorant
This is one of the best deodorants for men recommended by dermatologists for its clinical-strength formula without common harmful ingredients like aluminum and paraffins. Magnesium hydroxide, baking soda, and probiotics work together to absorb moisture, fight odor, and protect the skin.
Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant
Ursa Major’s natural deodorant glides on smoothly and smells fresh without staining clothes. We highly recommend it for its effectiveness and nice eucalyptus scent.
Baxter of California Deodorant
Baxter of California Deodorant is a favorite for many reasons. The formula is simple yet effective, combining witch hazel, tea tree oil, and chamomile to neutralize odors and soothe sensitive skin.
Corpus Natural Plant-Based Deodorant
With its effective odor control, thanks to vegetable enzymes and luxurious fragrances like woody Santalum, Corpus is one of the best deodorants for men out there. Its formula, free of baking soda, uses tapioca starch and diatomaceous earth to absorb moisture, which is ideal for men with sensitive skin.
Dove Men+Care Whole Body Deo Aluminum-Free Deodorant Stick
This deodorant is a refreshing stick of fragrance for smooth application that doesn’t leave any residue.
Old Spice Total Body Deodorant Spray
Old Spice’s spray deodorant is convenient and quick-drying and comes in different nice scents.
Native Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Native is a fragrance-free deodorant formulated using natural ingredients like diatomaceous earth and pre-and probiotics to control strong body odors. It’s perfect for those who prefer minimal scent while maintaining freshness.
Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel
This gel deodorant includes alpha hydroxy acids to exfoliate and control odor, niacinamide for skin health, and soothing chamomile extract. It dries quickly but requires a bit of waiting before wearing clothes to avoid stains.
Malin+Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant
Malin+Goetz offers a smooth, clump-free application with luxury-level scents like santal and vetiver. Its formula keeps you smelling good and fairly dry for hours without aluminum, parabens, or sulfates.
Bravo Sierra Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Bravo Sierra’s aluminum-free deodorant uses advanced deodorizing technology to eliminate odor-causing bacteria, with Brazilian arrowroot powder to absorb wetness and various plant-based oils to moisturize skin.
Each & Every Natural Aluminum-Free Deodorant
This travel-friendly spray deodorant uses saccharomyces ferment and lemon myrtle oil to control odor and bacteria, with a refreshing sage, sandalwood, and geranium scent.
Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant
Schmidt’s uses cornstarch to absorb wetness, with skin-moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and aloe leaf juice. It’s ideal for those looking for a gentle, effective deodorant without baking soda.
ND1 High-Performance Natural Deodorant
ND1 features a luxurious bergamot and neroli scent, tapioca starch, Amazonian brown clay, and niodor to limit bacteria growth. It’s perfect for special occasions when you want to feel exceptionally fresh.
How to Choose the Right Deodorant for Men
Body odor is caused by bacteria thriving in moist environments. Look for ingredients that control bacteria and help manage wetness. Effective options include zinc oxide, magnesium hydroxide, pre-and probiotics, and alpha hydroxy acids. Avoid baking soda if you have sensitive skin, as it can be a common irritant.
While deodorants won’t stop sweating entirely, they can absorb some moisture. Ingredients like arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, and kaolin clay are good choices for this.
Some deodorants offer added benefits with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamins, and moisturizers like shea butter and coconut oil to keep your skin healthy. If you have sensitive skin, consider fragrance-free deodorants or those with minimal scent.
