Supermarket deodorants that actually work, according to dermatologists

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Choosing a deodorant can be a bewildering process.  

Do you need one with antiperspirant? Should you choose a stick, roll-on, gel, cream or spray? And what about those that claim, specially, to be ‘for the whole body’?

The sheer number of options on any pharmacy shelf is enough to stump even the most single-minded buyer. 

So what should you look for when picking your next deodorant? 

Well, say experts, you first need to know what it all means. 

Deodorant cancels out odours, whilst antiperspirant stops your glands from producing sweat in the first place, says Dr Sabika Karim, aesthetic doctor and founder of Skin Medical. 

‘That’s the first thing that people need to decide between – and most people don’t actually know the difference,’ she said. 

People who sweat a lot – getting sweat patches on clothing, for example – likely want an antiperspirant, says Dr Karim. 

Those who struggle with odour, but who don’t have an issue with how much they sweat, may want to stick with a deodorant, on the other hand. 

Next, it’s crucial to figure out how much fragrance you want or need, says dermatologist and plastic surgeon Dr Amy Bandy – or you may end up with painful or itchy pits.

‘Those with sensitive skin need to check the ingredients list on the tube – as some chemicals or added scents will really irritate the skin,’ said Dr Bandy.  

‘It’s always best to opt for deodorants that are as plain and unassuming as possible.

‘Deodorants without perfume, alcohol, and preferably baking soda, as well as aloe vera or glycerin, are generally the least likely to irritate the skin, due to their potential to cause redness or itching.’

Application method can be just as important. 

Says Dr Bandy: ‘When it comes to deodorant types, my preference is typically towards deodorants based in creams or balms, which use shea butter, oils, and silicones. 

‘Moisturizing deodorants provide additional benefits for individuals who shave regularly or have very dry, easily irritated underarms.

‘However, they can also be slightly thicker and may bleed through clothing; however, from a skin health standpoint, they are often the most protective.’ 

Roll-ons, meanwhile, are usually less irritating as they only apply as a very thin liquid layer and are typically made up of fewer volatile ingredients. 

Just always avoid sprays, says Dr Karim, as these can irritate the skin more than other types of applicator. 

‘Spray-ons apply product with force, which can damage the skin barrier, and also contain lots of unnecessary chemicals in order to stabilise the product,’ she explained.  

So, what’s the best deodorant for YOU? Read on for their top picks – for the big sweaters, those prone to stinky pits, or the super sensitive skin customers…

Dove’s maximum strength antiperspirant contains aluminium compounds that block the sweat glands, reducing the amount of ‘watery’ sweat the armpits produce, says Dr Karim. 

It also contains skin conditioning agents that help to soothe skin and reduce irritation. 

‘These tend to be things that help the skin barrier,’ says Dr Karim. ‘This product has sunflower seed oil, which is rich in fatty acids.’

Dove’s antiperspirant stick is Dr Karim’s and Dr Bandy’s top choice for those looking for a soothing antiperspirant. 

This antiperspirant offering from Mitchum is also formulated with aluminum salts to impede sweating. 

What’s different about this formulation, however, is the high levels of salts it contains, says Dr Karim. 

‘It’s at the top end of what regulation permits,’ she explained. ‘This doesn’t mean it’s harmful to our health, but it is intended for those who need a heavy duty antiperspirant.

‘This means it may also have a higher risk of skin irritation for those prone to armpit sensitivity.

‘But for those who really want to control their sweating, this could be a good option.’ 

Mitchum had to recall some of its high-strength roll-on deodorants last year after users complained of a burning sensation and scabbing in their armpits.   

‘The Vichy dry-touch deodorant also contains perlite, a compound that helps to neutralise odour and absorb moisture that won’t block the glands,’ she explained. 

‘It also has soothing ingredients like allantoin, which helps protect the skin barrier and soothe sensitive skin.’

For those with sensitive skin who don’t need as much sweat-wicking, this could be a good option. 

The Sure maximum protection antiperspirant has a similar level of aluminum salts to Mitchum’s, says Dr Karim. 

The difference is, this product also contains scent – making it great for those looking to mask odour, and less good for those who react to added fragrances. 

‘Fragrance isn’t always harmful, but it can be a common irritant for people,’ said Dr Karim. 

‘This will be really helpful for those suffering with excessive watery sweat, but it hasn’t got anything that helps with skin barrier – ie, no conditioning ingredients.’ 

Says Dr Karim: ‘This is a natural deodorant, meaning it doesn’t block sweat glands but reduces odour by changing the pH of the armpit.

‘AKT’s deodorant balm uses sodium bicarbonate – or baking soda – which helps to raise the skin’s pH. 

‘The odor associated with sweat is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat in acidic conditions. 

‘Making the skin more alkaline, therefore, makes the skin’s pH inhospitable to these microorganisms, killing off the stinky bacteria.’

As well as neutralising odours, this deodorant balm is scented with essential oils and fragrances. 

‘It also contains botanicals which are known to soothe the skin,’ says Dr Karim. 

‘But sodium bicarbonate, and even the most natural essential oils, can trigger irritation for super sensitive armpits.’ 

Says Dr Karim: ‘I love this deodorant – it’s got really clever ingredients that actually help improve the skin barrier whilst also blocking odour.

‘It won’t help reduce sweat, but it will lower the pH of the skin, inhibiting odour-causing bacteria, with its active ingredients madelic and lactic acid.’ 

Though coming in at a higher price point than other deodorant options, Necessaire’s signature cream stick contains the type of ingredients you might usually find in face creams and serums, says Dr Karim. 

‘It has AHAs and niacinamide – both compounds you would typically find in a skincare product – that help to support skin health, minimising bumps and reducing discolouration in the armpit area,’ she explained. 

‘It is a bit more expensive, but it’s also a more sophisticated product. Though it will be primarily for people who are concerned about odour, rather than blocking sweat.’