Best Women's Deodorants and Antiperspirants for 2025
This article highlights the best women's deodorants and antiperspirants for 2025, detailing their functions, formulations, and key ingredients for effective odor and sweat control.
Deodorant is an essential product, especially in humid climates like South Florida. It helps to keep body odor at bay during activities such as exercising or commuting. As board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose explains, deodorants and antiperspirants serve two main purposes: controlling sweat and eliminating body odor.
Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they have different functions. Deodorants mask or neutralize odor caused by sweat and bacteria, while antiperspirants contain aluminum to block sweat glands and reduce perspiration. However, antiperspirants can irritate sensitive skin, leading to discomfort.
If you sweat heavily and want to avoid dampness, antiperspirants may be the better choice for you. Otherwise, deodorants suffice for those who don’t perspire excessively. Both types start at around $9.
When choosing a deodorant, consider the formulation:
- Solids and sticks: These commonly contain wax, are well-tolerated by sensitive skin, but can leave white streaks on clothing.
- Gels: Roll-ons that are clear and lightweight but may feel wet on application.
- Creams: Offer moisturizing benefits but can be messier to apply, ideal for targeted areas.
- Sprays: Lightweight and fast-drying, but may contain alcohol which irritates sensitive skin.
Pay attention to ingredients as well; moisturizing elements like hyaluronic acid and occlusives such as shea butter protect the skin. Antiperspirants typically contain 12-30% aluminum salts to block perspiration.
For this article, the author, who has experience testing various deodorants in her career, selected 12 top contenders by considering expert recommendations, user experience, and personal testing during workouts and everyday activities. Here’s a roundup of the best women's deodorants for 2025, all approved by dermatologists and the author.
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