However, with many options available, we know choosing can be overwhelming. This article breaks down everything you need to know to choose the right deodorant or antiperspirant for you. We’ve also asked board-certified dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison for some of her comments and tips. Keep on reading to start your journey to smelling and feeling fresh!
Quick List - Top Deodorants
Nivea
Confidence in Every Swipe, Bright Skin Starts Here
Gillette
Stay Cool and Confident All Day Long
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Want to know if you need deodorant or not? Read on below for the benefits of using deodorants!
Contrary to popular opinion, sweat is actually odorless. The problem with body odor starts when bacteria on our skin begin to break down the sweat. Deodorants are products that serve to mask or prevent the underarm odor that comes from this breakdown.
Body odor is most often reported in the underarms, but genitals or soles of the feet may be affected. There are several treatment options for body odors, and these include the use of deodorants and antiperspirants. Deodorants reduce body odor by targeting the bacteria that break down the sweat. The most common antibacterial ingredients in deodorants are triclosan and chlorhexidine.
Deodorants are not to be confused with antiperspirants, though. Antiperspirants are a subclass of deodorants, with one additional function—to inhibit the production of sweat. By interacting with the sweat glands in the areas where it is applied, an antiperspirant works to stop perspiration, thus minimizing the development of body odor.
Deodorants also have solvents like Cyclomethicone and preservatives like sodium benzoate to preserve the product's shelf life. They also have fragrances to mask the odor of the underarms. Meanwhile, antiperspirants contain aluminum or zirconium-based compounds that form a polymeric plug that blocks sweat from being released from the sweat glands.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
First, it's important to check the deo's ingredients. How well a product will work or not will depend on its active ingredients.
Research studies carried out so far to investigate the link between the two have shown that it is an unfounded concern. Thus, aluminum salts in antiperspirants are perfectly safe to use.
Aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly are common active ingredients in personal care products as antiperspirant agents.
Their main mechanism of action is through blocking the pores via the formation of polymer complex and preventing sweat from leaving the body. Aluminum from antiperspirants may build up in breast tissue after years of use. However, no scientific evidence links the use of these products to the development of breast cancer.
Baking soda, charcoal, and arrowroot powder are also ingredients known for their ability to neutralize odors. They do not actually stop sweat, but they absorb moisture and oil and protect the skin by reducing chafing. These ingredients are quite commonly found in natural deodorants.
Triclosan is a phenyl ether with broad-spectrum antimicrobial action. It is used in several personal care products such as deodorants, toothpaste, and cosmetics as well as household items. It was already banned by FDA in 2016 in liquid, foam, and gel hand soaps, bar soaps, and body washes because manufacturers were not able to prove that it is safe for daily use over a long period.
Potassium alum is considered by the FDA as a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) substance. It is not only used in deodorants but also in astringents, oral health care, and for constipation. Experts say that regular deodorants are safe and that natural deodorants can contain ingredients like baking soda, essential oils, and plant extracts that can irritate the skin.
Deodorants come in different forms of application. Each one has its pros and cons, so it's best to choose one based on your needs and lifestyle.
An aerosol or spray deodorant is probably the most convenient of all. One spray can cover a wide area of your armpits, making it the ideal choice for people who don’t have a lot of time or for those who need to freshen up on the go. It’s also perfect for people who have a lot of hair in the underarm area.
Another advantage of the spray type is that it’s very refreshing, which is a plus in hot and humid weather. You can wear your clothes almost immediately since it dries pretty quickly. You can also share a spray deodorant with your friends because it doesn’t come in direct contact with your skin.
However, since it only sprays powder on the surface, its effects don’t last very long. Spray types can also be a source of irritation for people who shave because they are often alcohol-based. If you use a spray-type deodorant, be careful not to spray too close to your skin for too long, as you may get an aerosol burn.
Spray deodorants are very convenient to use because you can control the amount of product that you will apply to the underarms. They also dry quickly and without the wet or sticky feeling as compared with other forms of deodorants.
Make sure that you use it in a well-ventilated area so that you won't inhale the fumes coming out of the aerosol can. It's also important that you store the spray can away from direct heat because it has flammable gases inside.
Roll-on deodorant is a liquid deodorant with a ball tip. This glides onto skin wet, so you'll feel a cool sensation but you’ll need to wait a while for it to dry. Roll-on types come in direct contact with skin, so you’ll be able to tell what areas you’ve applied the product to.
Thus, you can be assured that you leave no area untouched. One caveat is that these are more likely to leave some residue. Most roll-ons also contain alcohol, which can cause skin dryness, itchiness, or a stinging sensation.
Roll-on deodorants provide an even application of the product on the underarms. But the product will take some time before it dries on the skin. It can also make the skin feel sticky and can cause the transfer of deodorant residue in your shirt.
Stick deodorants usually come in a creamy white bar form. These melt easily when they come in contact with the skin. They also limit product waste, as you can control where to rub the product on. Just like the spray, stick deodorants dry quickly on the skin, making them another ideal choice for busy people.
Stick-type deodorants are usually blended into emollients, giving them a waxy and creamy consistency that helps prevent skin dryness. And since they're in solid form, they're often deemed the most travel-friendly option in the bunch.
One of the disadvantages of stick deodorants is the streaks and stains that they may leave on your clothes. However, recent products are now formulated to prevent sticky residues and stains. Another point to consider is that stick deodorants may also block your pores and trap dirt, given their thick and waxy consistency.
Stick deodorants are mixed with waxes, fats, and emollients to form a solid bar packaged in a plastic, hand-held container. Stick deodorants are also easy to apply but may leave stains on clothing.
Gel deodorants come in a clear and thick liquid form. They dry clear, leaving no residues or stains. They have that invisible feeling on your skin once they dry, so you can go through the day without feeling sticky or heavy.
Many users say that while gel deodorants are lightweight, they are more potent in fighting body odor than solid deodorants. However, this type does not seem suitable for people on the go since it takes a bit longer to dry.
Gel deodorants are usually thick, and they come with applicators that dispense a small amount of product. Like roll-on deodorants, they take time before they dry on the skin, but they do not leave any sticky or wet feeling. An advantage of gel deodorants is that they feel invisible once they dry on the skin.
If you're looking for a natural option, then crystal deodorants may be the best choice for you. Crystal deodorants are made of natural minerals and salts and don't contain any harsh chemicals. They're a good choice for people who have sensitive skin or for those who are looking for a chemical-free option.
However, crystals aren’t completely chemical-free; they do contain some aluminum in the form of alum. Alum has been shown to inhibit the formation of bacteria, which causes body odor. It does offer some antiperspirant properties, but not enough to block your pores.
Crystal deodorants consist of mineral salts like potassium alum and aluminum alum, which were shown to have antimicrobial properties. They are available as a stone, roll-on, spray, gel, or powder. The salt in crystal deodorant helps to kill bacteria that cause underarm odor.
They may help reduce body odor, but they won't be able to keep your underarms dry if you sweat heavily. Some side effects that can be experienced using this type of deodorant include rashes, itchiness, irritation, or allergic reactions.
A small amount goes a long way for cream deodorants, so they can last for a long time! Another bonus is that most cream deodorants have fewer chemicals in them and use predominantly natural ingredients, so they may be gentler on the skin.
However, some creams may have formulations that can leave a stain, so make sure to look at the labels to keep your clothes stain-free.
Cream deodorants can be applied using your hands or a small spatula. Usually, only a pea-sized amount is needed for each underarm, and it usually lasts the whole day. Keep in mind that some cream deodorants have fragrances or essential oils that can cause skin irritation, especially if you shave your underarms.
There is now a wide array of deodorants currently available. Thanks to innovative technology, deodorant manufacturers are coming up with newer and better formulas to offer us options for both chemical and natural deodorants.
Chemical deodorants have conventional formulations that combine deodorant and antiperspirant properties. The ingredients most often used in chemical deodorants are those from the aluminum family, such as aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium, and aluminum dichlorohydrex, to name a few.
They typically have a longer protection time and are more effective in controlling sweat and odor than natural deodorants. While aluminum has been deemed safe by the National Cancer Institute, chemical deodorants still contain other chemicals, such as parabens and fragrances, that can be a cause for concern, especially for people with sensitive skin.
Deodorants containing aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium, and aluminum dichlorohydrex are safe to use. There is no evidence that they cause breast cancer according to oncology experts. Only very small amounts of aluminum get absorbed in the skin when we use deodorants so our exposure to aluminum is not significant.
If you prefer to go the natural route, there are many great options for you. These deodorants use natural, and sometimes even organic, ingredients that help absorb moisture and prevent bacterial growth. You can look for oils like sunflower oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil, etc., if you want your deodorant to be moisturizing.
Most formulations also use essential oils for fragrances instead of synthetic compounds. However, note that just because it's "natural" doesn't mean that it's safe for all skin types! Some essential oils can trigger irritation.
For those with sensitive skin, look for deodorants that are fragrance-free and with short ingredients list to minimize skin irritation. Make sure to patch-test the product first on a small area before using it on your underarms.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Protection Time | Active Ingredient | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Belo Essentials Intense White Deo Roll-On | ![]() | Whiten and Protect: Your Underarm Confidence Starts Here | Roll-On | 1-2 Days | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water | 40 mL | |
2 | Nivea Deodorant Extra Brightening Antiperspirant Stick with Vitamin C | ![]() | Confidence in Every Swipe, Bright Skin Starts Here | Stick | 1-2 Days | Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Hydrolyzed Pearl, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil | 50 mL | |
3 | Gillette Cool Wave Clear Gel Antiperspirant Protection and Deodorant | ![]() | Stay Cool and Confident All Day Long | Gel | 2-3 Days | Aluminum Zirconium Octachlorohydrex Gly (Anhydrous) 16–20% | 107 g | |
4 | Fresh Formula Sgt. At Arms Lightening Deo Spray | ![]() | Powerful Protection Meets Radiant Confidence | Spray | 1-2 Days | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin E | 100 mL | |
5 | Rexona Dry Serum Vitamin + Bright Berry Glow Deodorant | ![]() | Powerful Protection Meets Radiant Confidence | Serum | 1-2 Days | Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly, Niacinamide, Vitamin E | 40 mL | |
6 | Milcu Unscented Deo Roll On | ![]() | Gentle, Long-Lasting Freshness Without the Fragrance. | Roll-On | 1-2 Days | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone | 50 mL | |
7 | Avon Feelin Fresh Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Cream | ![]() | Stay Fresh and Dry with Every Application | Cream | 1-2 Days | Aluminum Chlorohydrate | 55 g | |
8 | Human Nature Natural Deodorant | ![]() | Purely Fresh, Naturally Confident | Roll-On | 1-2 Days | Aloe Vera, Coconut Oil, Arrowroot Powder, Baking Soda | 50 mL | |
9 | Axe Ice Chill Body Spray | ![]() | Stay Cool and Fresh with Every Spray | Spray | 1-2 Days | Butane, Isobutane, Propane, Fragrance | 135 mL | |
10 | Old Spice Anti Perspirant High Endurance Dry Cream Deodorant Pure Sport | ![]() | Endurance That Keeps You Moving | Cream | 2-3 Days | Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly | 45 g |
Users commonly praise its noticeable whitening effect and all-day freshness, with many noting it keeps underarms dry and lightens discoloration after a week of use. However, several reviewers mention a peculiar sour or funky scent that some find off-putting and inconsistent with other deodorants. A few also report the roll-on texture can feel sticky or gritty if applied too heavily, and occasional mild stinging for sensitive users.
Type | Roll-On |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water |
Net Weight | 40 mL |
Type | Stick |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Hydrolyzed Pearl, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Type | Gel |
---|---|
Protection Time | 2-3 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Zirconium Octachlorohydrex Gly (Anhydrous) 16–20% |
Net Weight | 107 g |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin E |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Type | Serum |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly, Niacinamide, Vitamin E |
Net Weight | 40 mL |
Type | Roll-On |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Type | Cream |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorohydrate |
Net Weight | 55 g |
Type | Roll-On |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aloe Vera, Coconut Oil, Arrowroot Powder, Baking Soda |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Protection Time | 1-2 Days |
Active Ingredient | Butane, Isobutane, Propane, Fragrance |
Net Weight | 135 mL |
Type | Cream |
---|---|
Protection Time | 2-3 Days |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly |
Net Weight | 45 g |
No more kili-kili power! Learn more about deodorants below as Dr. Meg Sison answers some of the most asked questions on the internet.
Deodorants last the whole day, even when you sweat. But if you are engaging in activities that will make you perspire more profusely, you can reapply deodorant during the day. Make sure to wash your underarms first and apply the deodorant to clean and dry skin.
If the deodorant that you're using doesn't help with the body odor, it's best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for evaluation of underlying medical conditions that can cause excessive sweating and body odor.
Deodorants can cause the underarms to darken if they contain ingredients that cause skin irritation. The skin in our underarms is very sensitive, and it is also constantly subjected to trauma and friction. Using products with ingredients that cause irritation can lead to redness, and when the skin heals, it becomes dark as a result of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Smell is one of the most powerful forces that can make or break people's impressions of you. Put your best foot forward and leave people wanting more. Check out these other products in our article reviews below for more ways to smell clean and fresh all day!
Re-editor: J Ausa
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Belo Essentials|Intense White Deo Roll-On
No. 2: Nivea|Deodorant Extra Brightening Antiperspirant Stick with Vitamin C
No. 3: Gillette|Cool Wave Clear Gel Antiperspirant Protection and Deodorant
No. 4: Fresh Formula|Sgt. At Arms Lightening Deo Spray
No. 5: Rexona|Dry Serum Vitamin + Bright Berry Glow Deodorant
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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