Let’s be honest, we’ve all had days where we’ve smelled, well, less than fresh. You know what I mean; maybe you missed a shower or finished an exercise class. Or maybe you’ve been a victim of applying deodorant and finding that it just doesn’t work. Whatever it is, we’ve all experienced days where our armpits smelled a little offensive.

Finding the best deodorant for your needs is a feat. With no shortage of products, how do you know where to start? The best deodorants and antiperspirants actively fight body odor at its source rather than simply masking it. Instead of trying dozens of deodorants to find your favorite, we did the heavy lifting for you by searching the internet for the best options.

What makes a deodorant good for body odor?

Ingredients, ingredients, ingredients. The key to eliminating underarm odor comes down to making sure the deodorant ingredients are designed for your specific problem.

Sweat alone is essentially odorless. However, Armpits harbor bacteria. which feeds on chemicals in sweat and converts them into thioalcohols, which is that particularly unpleasant body odor. A deodorant that contains antibacterial ingredients such as triclosan and triclocarban is a good starting point when it comes to addressing odors at their source.

Additionally, deodorants should not cause discomfort and should feel light on the skin. If your skin is particularly sensitive, be sure to avoid fragrances and essential oils, as they can cause irritation. While a deodorant with a refreshing scent, such as citrus or floral, is a nice bonus, if it doesn’t contain antibacterial agents, it won’t work at all.

If you’re concerned about how much your armpits sweat, antiperspirants may be better than a traditional deodorant. Antiperspirants are based on ingredients like aluminum that work with perspiration in your armpits to create plugs, telling your body to stop producing sweat.

Finding the best deodorant for your body’s needs may require some trial and error. To save you time (and money), we evaluated the best-smelling deodorants based on ingredients, trusted reviews, and overall value for money. Read our top 12 picks below, including picks for both men and women.

The best deodorants

Old Spice Aluminum-Free Deodorant

Tried and true, Old Spice is like the gold standard for keeping bones from smelling bad. Take Pure Sport to enjoy a refreshing lemon and lime citrus aroma that keeps you protected and fresh for up to 48 hours. It’s also a super affordable option that can be found at almost every local pharmacy, which we love.

Aluminum-Free Speed ​​Stick Deodorant

Another staple that just works, Speed ​​Stick Aluminum-Free Deodorant is the epitome of a fresh staple that proves you don’t have to reinvent the deodorant wheel to find a solid favorite. It offers 24 hours of protection and you’d be hard-pressed to find something more affordable – the four-pack is just $10!

Phoenix Antiperspirant Ax

Powered by aluminum, this delicious mint and rosemary scented air freshener keeps you dry for up to 48 hours. Get it if you want to spend more time in the moment and less time fanning your armpits.

Blu Atlas Natural Deodorant

Blu Atlas really gets it right with this aluminum-free pick that features 96% naturally derived ingredients like bamboo stem extract, sage leaf, and volcanic ash extract for 48-hour non-greasy protection. It is available in apricot and coconut, as well as an unscented option. Be careful, the coconut and apricot scent will have everyone asking you what you’re wearing.

Kosas Chemical Deodorant

Look for this selection to eliminate body odor at the root. Two alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including lactic and mandelic acids, work overtime to exfoliate underarms and stop odor. Meanwhile, aloe vera juice and hyaluronic acid soothe and nourish the skin. The result? A gluten-free and cruelty-free choice that reviewers call “clean, effective and gentle on sensitive skin.”

Le Labo Deodorant

We love that this pick describes its scent as a cologne: bergamot and lavender at the beginning, while notes of violet and tonka bean round it out. But make no mistake, it’s not here to mask odors; It contains glycerin, which has antibacterial properties, and vitamin E to soothe the skin. Although a little more expensive than drugstore deodorants, this luxurious product is worth every penny.

Dove Antiperspirant Dry Spray Deodorant

Spray the bad smell with Dove. The scent is subtle, but make no mistake: It’s designed to provide 72 hours of protection against sweat and odor. In addition, it has a moisturizing cream to keep the skin free of irritation.

Dr. Squatch Natural Deodorant

Dr. Squatch doesn’t hold back and proves that natural deodorants can absolutely do the job. With ingredients like arrowroot powder, charcoal and postbiotics, plus naturally derived fragrances, it’s available in a host of stunning aroma profiles, including birch breeze and summer citrus.

Clinical Protection Grade Antiperspirant

If you need a little extra help, Degree has you covered. This prescription pick is based on aluminum and emits only a little A little fragrance when you move, which means you don’t have to worry about stinking when you are at the gym or playing sports.

Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Antiperspirant and Deodorant Cream

Cream deodorant? Sure, it may sound strange, but trust Usworks. Once you try it you will probably never go back. This pick from Kiehl’s works with aluminum and witch hazel to keep sweat at bay and soften skin. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a fragrance-free option that works to prevent itch.

Native Deodorant

Another aluminum-free option, this option from Native relies on coconut oil, shea butter, probiotics, and tapioca to keep the seeds fresh and nourished. Reviewers note how pleasantly surprised they are by its ability to keep odor at bay. Choose from several scents ranging from coconut and vanilla to cucumber and mint.

Jack Black Pit Boss Antiperspirant and Deodorant

Jack Black doesn’t play games when it comes to keeping sweat at bay, but we love that their deodorant also includes vitamin E to keep skin nourished and conditioned. Meanwhile, aloe vera juice keeps armpits hydrated, creating an impressive cocktail that reviewers say effectively combats sweat and odor.

The truth

Get rid of stinky pits for good with one of our picks above, spanning tried-and-true brands and popular newcomers. Fear not: depending on your skin type and your specific concerns and preferences, there is certainly something that will alleviate your problems. Top-tier options, like Blu Atlas Natural Deodorant, leave your underarms feeling fresh and smelling great.