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
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.
Table of Contents
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 | Net Weight | Active Ingredient | Protection Time | |||||
1 | Deonat Natural Mineral Deodorant Stick | ![]() | Uses Pure Mineral Salt to Stop Unpleasant Body Odor | Crystal | 60 g | Ammonium Alum | 24 hrs | |
2 | Nuud Natural Deodorant Starter Pack | ![]() | A Vegan Deo That Offers Long-Lasting Protection | Cream | 15 ml | Microsilver, Coconut Oil, Natural Mineral Clay, Almond Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil | 3-5 Days | |
3 | Milcu Underarm & Foot Deodorant Powder | ![]() | A 2-in-1 Powder That Neutralizes Various Kinds of Body Odor | Powder | 80 g | Potash Alum, Hydrated Magnesium Silicate | unknown | |
4 | Secret Platinum Cream|Shower Fresh | ![]() | Has a Powerful Formula That Helps Address Excessive Sweating | Stick | 45 g | Aluminum Zirconium | unknown | |
5 | Human Nature Beauty +PLUS Deodorant Stick | ![]() | A Natural Deodorant With Lightening and Smoothening Properties | Stick | 34 g | Coconut Oil, Plant-Derived Stearyl Alcohol, Sunflower Seed Oil, Triethyl Citrate, Zinc Oxide, Tea Tree Essential Oil | unknown | |
6 | Dove Original Nourished and Smooth Deodorant Spray | ![]() | Unique Moisturizing Formula to Help Skin Recover After Shaving | Spray | 150 ml | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Sunflower Seed Oil | 48 hrs | |
7 | Gluta-C Intense Whitening Deodorant | ![]() | Whitens Underarms With Glutathione and Antioxidants | Roll-On | 40 ml | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Glutathione | 24 hrs | |
8 | Rexona MotionSense Deodorant Spray|Powder Dry | ![]() | Clean and Airy Scent Like You’ve Just Stepped Out of the Shower | Spray | 150 ml | Aluminium Chlorohydrate, Hydrolysed Corn Starch, Benzyl Alcohol | 48 hrs | |
9 | Nivea Men Deodorant Silver Protect Spray | ![]() | Offers Powerful and All-Day Odor Protection for Men | Spray | 150 ml | Aluminum Chlorodydrate, Silver Citrate | 48 hrs | |
10 | Arm & Hammer UltraMax Solid Antiperspirant Deodorant | ![]() | Formulated With Baking Soda to Neutralize Odors | Stick | 73 g | Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorodydrex Gly | 48 hrs |
If you're looking for a natural option, we highly recommend this mineral deodorant. Made of pure mineral salt, it's free from harmful and harsh chemicals like parabens and fragrances. This tiny deodorant keeps working for up to 24 hours, but loyal users say it can even go beyond that. You also won't have to worry about stains, white streaks, or any residue with this!
But if you're switching from regular deodorants, your body will go through a detox of your regular product. So we must warn you that you won't be totally odor-free for the first few days. Once your body has adjusted to this new product, you'll soon say goodbye to body odor! Note that this isn't an antiperspirant, so it doesn't exactly keep you sweat-free.
Type | Crystal |
---|---|
Net Weight | 60 g |
Active Ingredient | Ammonium Alum |
Protection Time | 24 hrs |
Nuud made waves in the deodorant industry by utilizing micro silver, an unconventional yet effective way to kill bacteria that cause odor. It also boasts a 100% vegan formulation containing coconut, almond, and wonder oils to keep your underarms soft and smooth without clogging the pores.
Furthermore, the mineral clay in its formulation helps absorb sweat. What's even more remarkable is that, despite being an all-natural deodorant, it can keep you odor-free for three to five days! This translates to bigger savings, as users claim that one tube can last them for around six to seven months.
Type | Cream |
---|---|
Net Weight | 15 ml |
Active Ingredient | Microsilver, Coconut Oil, Natural Mineral Clay, Almond Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil |
Protection Time | 3-5 Days |
When it comes to foot and underarm powders, Milcu stands out as the top choice. It provides a daily hygiene solution suitable for various footwear choices, and you can also use it on your underarms for a touch of deodorizing care. In addition to its 2-in-1 function, this unscented powder is both budget-friendly and incredibly effective.
Formula-wise, it contains potash alum for effective odor control and talc for optimal moisture absorption. Milcu's blend of natural, non-sticky ingredients works wonders to manage excessive perspiration and neutralize odor. This is why satisfied users affirm that it's a product they've tried, tested, and trusted for many years!
Type | Powder |
---|---|
Net Weight | 80 g |
Active Ingredient | Potash Alum, Hydrated Magnesium Silicate |
Protection Time | unknown |
Type | Stick |
---|---|
Net Weight | 45 g |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Zirconium |
Protection Time | unknown |
For a multi-purpose deo, you can never go wrong with Human Nature's Beauty +PLUS Deodorant Stick. This does not just control body odor—the sunflower beauty oil in its formulation also helps lighten and smoothen underarms. And if you suffer from chicken skin or dryness caused by shaving, this product will also help ease that.
Through the antibacterial properties of tea tree oil and sage oil, this deo kills odor-causing bacteria in a healthy, natural way. Human Nature has always been known for making 100% high-quality, all-natural products. This is probably why users keep coming back to them. For this product, they like how lightweight and smooth this feels on the skin.
Type | Stick |
---|---|
Net Weight | 34 g |
Active Ingredient | Coconut Oil, Plant-Derived Stearyl Alcohol, Sunflower Seed Oil, Triethyl Citrate, Zinc Oxide, Tea Tree Essential Oil |
Protection Time | unknown |
For women who are always in a rush and can't help but shave their underarms, Dove's Original Nourished and Smooth Deodorant Spray is a must! It is formulated with 1/4 moisturizing cream to help the skin recover after shaving. And it can reduce irritation and even make the skin smoother and softer.
Its skin-caring formula promises triple nourishment by strengthening the skin barrier, trapping moisture to improve hydration, and releasing skincare actives. Aside from preventing dry and flaky skin, this spray deodorant can also provide 48 hours of antiperspirant protection.
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Net Weight | 150 ml |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Sunflower Seed Oil |
Protection Time | 48 hrs |
If you've used the wrong type of deodorant for years, chances are, you may have some discoloration on your underarms. Good thing this deo exists! It offers advanced whitening through the powers of antioxidants like glutathione, vitamin C, and daisy flower extract. Plus, it comes in a roll-on form, so it is absorbed quickly into the skin.
Another thing that makes this deodorant special is its formulation that's free of chemicals like alcohol, parabens, and hydroquinone. It also promises to keep you odor-free for 24 hours, just like what several users attested to. And since it's dermatologist-tested and FDA-approved, you can be sure that it's a safe way to get rid of your dark underarms!
Type | Roll-On |
---|---|
Net Weight | 40 ml |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Glutathione |
Protection Time | 24 hrs |
For a more straightforward option, you can check out Rexona's MotionSense Powder Dry Deodorant Spray. It can offer 48 hours of sweat and odor protection, plus a clean and airy scent for all-day freshness. Upon application, you'll feel like you've just stepped out of the shower! With its MotionSense technology, you can even do physical activities and still feel shower-fresh.
Micropulses will stay on your skin, so the subtle fragrance will be released whenever you need it—for example, when you're commuting or running an errand. This is perfect for busy women who are always on the go. Whether you're reporting to the office daily or playing with your kids, you can confidently wear any outfit, especially your sleeveless tops.
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Net Weight | 150 ml |
Active Ingredient | Aluminium Chlorohydrate, Hydrolysed Corn Starch, Benzyl Alcohol |
Protection Time | 48 hrs |
Nivea is one of the go-to brands for personal care because their products are always dermatologically tested and effective for an affordable price. This deodorant for men is one of their consistent bestsellers because of its special Silver Ion formula. This provides effective anti-bacterial protection, which in turn, prevents body odor.
Despite its superior odor-fighting power that lasts for 48 hours, it is gentle and well-tolerated by the skin. It's also free of ethyl alcohol, so it won't be drying. Moreover, it has a refreshing masculine fragrance with hints of citrus, aromatics, and green elements, which users love since it leaves them smelling and feeling fresh.
Type | Spray |
---|---|
Net Weight | 150 ml |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Chlorodydrate, Silver Citrate |
Protection Time | 48 hrs |
This deodorant from Arm & Hammer is formulated with baking soda, which absorbs and eliminates body odor. Unlike other deodorants, this doesn't smell funky when it comes in contact with sweat. And thanks to its Advanced Sweat Control Technology, it is a winning choice for people who engage in sports or are frequently outdoors.
It comes in an invisible stick and has a consistency that is a cross between a gel and a solid stick. It is easier to apply, although it does have a bit longer drying time. It is recommended to let it fully dry before putting on your clothes since it might leave streaks or stains if it comes into contact with clothing while still wet. Aside from making them sweat less, buyers also like its refreshing scent.
Type | Stick |
---|---|
Net Weight | 73 g |
Active Ingredient | Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorodydrex Gly |
Protection Time | 48 hrs |
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: Deonat|Natural Mineral Deodorant Stick
No. 2: Nuud|Natural Deodorant Starter Pack
No. 3: Milcu|Underarm & Foot Deodorant Powder
No. 4: Secret|Platinum Cream|Shower Fresh
No. 5: Human Nature|Beauty +PLUS Deodorant Stick
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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