Let’s be honest, we’ve all had days where we felt less than fresh. You know what I mean; maybe you missed a shower or finished an exercise class. Or maybe you’ve fallen victim to applying deodorant only to find that it just isn’t doing the job. Either way, we’ve all had days where our armpits smelled a little bad.

Finding the best deodorant for your needs is a feat. There is no shortage of products, so how do you know where to start? The best deodorants and antiperspirants actively combat body odor at the source rather than simply masking the odor. Instead of testing dozens of deodorants to find your favorite, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you by scouring the internet for the best picks.

What makes a deodorant good for body odor?

Ingredients, ingredients, ingredients. The key to eliminating smelly armpits is making sure the ingredients in your deodorant are designed for your specific problem.

Sweat alone is essentially odorless. However, armpits harbor bacteria which feeds on the chemicals in your sweat and converts it into thioalcohols, which are that particularly unpleasant body odor. A deodorant that contains antibacterial ingredients such as triclosan and triclocarban is a good starting point to combat bad odors at the source.

Additionally, deodorants should not cause discomfort and should feel light on the skin. If your skin is particularly sensitive, avoid products such as perfumes and essential oils, as they can cause irritation. While a refreshing deodorant like citrus or floral is a nice bonus, if it doesn’t contain antibacterial agents, it won’t really do the job.

If you’re conscious of your underarm sweating, antiperspirants may be better than a traditional deodorant. Antiperspirants rely on ingredients like aluminum that work with sweating in the armpits to create plugs, signaling your body to stop producing sweat.

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

The best deodorants

Old Spice Aluminum-Free Deodorant

Tried and true, Old Spice is like the gold standard when it comes to keeping pits from smelling bad. Take Pure Sport for a refreshing lemon and lime scent that keeps you protected and fresh for up to 48 hours. It’s also a very affordable choice that can be found at almost any local pharmacy, which we love.

Speed ​​Stick Aluminum-Free Deodorant

Another must-have that just works, Speed ​​Stick’s Aluminum-Free Deodorant is the epitome of a fresh must-have that proves you don’t need to reinvent the wheel with deodorant 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 only $10!

Ax Phoenix Antiperspirant

Powered by aluminum, this delicious room setter scented with mint and rosemary keeps you dry for up to 48 hours. Achieve it if you want to spend more time in the present moment and less time straining your armpits.

Blu Atlas Natural Deodorant

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

Kosas Chemistry Deodorant

Opt for this choice to demolish 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 choice describes its scent as an eau de cologne: bergamot and lavender first, while notes of violet and tonka bean round it out. But make no mistake, it’s not there 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 Spray Deodorant

Spray the stench with Dove. The scent is subtle, but make no mistake, it’s rated for 72 hours of protection against sweat and odor. Plus, it contains moisturizer to keep the skin irritation-free.

Dr Squatch natural deodorant

Dr. Squatch doesn’t hold back and proves that natural deodorants can absolutely get the job done. Featuring ingredients like arrowroot powder, charcoal and postbiotics, in addition to naturally derived fragrances, it’s available in a host of stunning scent profiles like birch breeze and summer citrus .

Antiperspirant Clinical Protection Level

If you need a little extra help, Degree is here for you. This prescription pick is based on aluminum and emits only one little a little scent when you move, which means you don’t have to worry about stinking when you’re at the gym or doing sports.

Superbly effective antiperspirant and deodorant cream from Kiehl’s

A cream deodorant? Sure, it might sound strange, but trust WeThat works. Once you try it, you’ll probably never go back. This Kiehl’s pick is powered by aluminum and witch hazel to ward off sweat while softening skin. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a fragrance-free option that prevents itching.

Native deodorant

Another aluminum-free choice, this pick from Native relies on coconut oil, shea butter, probiotics, and tapioca to keep the kernels fresh and nourished. Reviewers note how they are pleasantly surprised by its ability to keep odors away. Choose from several flavors 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 contains vitamin E to keep skin nourished and conditioned. Meanwhile, aloe vera juice keeps the cores 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 selections above, covering tried-and-true brands and popular newcomers. Fear not: depending on your skin type and your specific concerns and preferences, there is sure to be something to alleviate your concerns. Top picks, like Blu Atlas Natural Deodorant, leave underarms feeling refreshed and smelling in tip-top shape.