13 Best Deodorant for Men 2026, According to Dermatologists

Frankly, the best deodorant for men sells itself. It stinks to stink: Body odor is right up there with bad breath as a totally avoidable misfortune. But while deodorant might seem like an odd category to get overly psyched about, as a longtime grooming editor, I can confidently say we're living in a golden age of the underarm essential.Unlike the synthetic and chalky ghosts of deodorant sticks past, today’s best deodorants are a a sea of sophisticated formulas, improved textures, better scents, and naturally derived ingredients that, yes, actually work. The only hard part is honing in on the best one for you. Price, feel, skin sensitivity, and your sweat and odor levels matter. So I tested a whole lot of deodorants to narrow the field to seven standouts, some new, some tried-and-true, plus a few more deeper cuts I also loved.I also tapped trusted dermatologists, for some expert insights further down. Just one last quick note: We’re not talking antiperspirants here, which primarily rely on aluminum compounds to reduce sweat. If that’s what you’re after, I’ve got recommendations for those, too.The Best for Most GuysDove Men+Care Aluminum Free Deodorant StickRead moreThe NewcomerChurch California Cedar Grove Natural DeodorantRead moreThe UpgradeUrsa Major Forest Fix DeodorantRead moreThe Drugstore ClassicOld Spice Refresh High Endurance DeodorantRead moreThe GelBaxter of California Gel DeodorantRead moreThe Best-SmellingSalt & Stone DeodorantRead moreThe LotionFreaks of Nature Everyday Endurance DeodorantRead moreThe Best Deodorant for Most Guys: Dove Men+Care Aluminum Free Deodorant StickDoveMen+Care Aluminum Free Deodorant StickNow, are there more targeted, more sophisticated, and, well, chicer deodorants on this list? Absolutely. But at the end of the day, you want your deo to do three things: keep the stink at bay, smell good, and be easy to repurchase. Dove Men+Care hits every mark, which is why it's in every drugstore.The price, of course, is great, but then there's the scent: a surprisingly sophisticated blend of bright bergamot and warm white amber that's fresh, subtly citrusy, and softly warm. It smells so much better than your typical underarm fare and is actually a little mood-boosting, as the packaging suggests. The aluminum-free, baking-soda-free formula features moisture-attracting ingredients, giving it a little skincare credibility, too. It also feels super smooth going on, and kept its scent for most of the day. No notes!The Best Newcomer: Church California Cedar Grove Natural DeodorantChurch CaliforniaCedar Grove Natural DeodorantHip grooming brand Church California's deodorant only launched two years ago, but for me, it's everything a niche, forward-thinking deodorant should be: Effective, made with almost entirely naturally derived ingredients, and housed in compostable, plastic-free packaging. The formula uses magnesium and organic tapioca starch for odor and moisture control, with coconut oil and shea butter adding a little skin-conditioning goodness. And that scent? Wonderfully herbaceous, thanks to an essential oil blend that smells like the actual outdoors.Admittedly, the sturdy cardboard tube takes a little getting used to—you push the stick up from the bottom instead of twisting a dial. And the glide is certainly a little less smooth. But oh, does the formula hold up. Even hours later, I'd catch little whiffs of those lovely botanicals, and when the scent eventually faded, there was still no detectable B.O. For the environmentally conscious guy, it's a no-brainer, and for the aesthete, it looks retro cool sitting on your medicine cabinet shelf.The Best Upgrade Deodorant: Ursa Major Forest Fix DeodorantUrsa MajorForest Fix DeodorantUrsa Major’s Hoppin’ Fresh stick is a modern legend in the deo space. Among us grooming geeks, this au naturel-meets-elevated formula changed the underarm game when it launched in 2015. It was one of those early artisanal step-ups from drugstore fare, and it earned the hype with thoughtfully curated, foraged-sounding ingredients, a subtle, natural-smelling citrus scent, and a skincare-centric stick that glides on smoothly.It still holds up today, fighting odor, soothing skin, and absorbing excess moisture to keep you smelling fresh. For an aluminum-free deo, it also keeps me pretty dry, too. And even the packaging—a sleek, solid-blue tube—feels like a style upgrade. Scent wise, in winter Forest Fix is the way to go. But the original Hoppin' Fresh is always waiting in the wings once the warmer months come around.The Best Drugstore Deodorant: Old Spice Refresh High Endurance DeodorantOld SpiceRefresh High Endurance DeodorantI'm well aware that Old Spice has plenty of newer, more fragrance-centric variations, many with names like Swagger. But I've always preferred the tried-and-true stuff, and that blue stick, here in High Endurance Refresh, is about as iconic as deodorant gets. It's my old reliable, and one I always keep as a backup, whether I'm visiting family, staying overnight somewhere, or just need something I can count on in a pinch. This classic has aged remarkably well, because it simply works.Then there's the nostalgia, which hits me every time I catch a whiff of that distinctively fresh-meets-medicinal aroma I've loved unironically for years. The formula isn't particularly fancy: science-y ingredients give the aluminum-free stick its smooth glide, while glycerin adds a little skin-conditioning benefit. Would I wear this for an Ironman competition? Probably not. But for everyday errands, workdays, and just about everything in between? Absolutely. At under $15 for a three-pack, it's also easily one of the best value options on this list.The Best Gel Deodorant: Baxter of California DeodorantBaxter of CaliforniaGel DeodorantWhen you think gel deodorant, you probably picture those old-school perforated dispensers with tons of holes. But Baxter of California's is a smooth, transparent gel stick that's still, in my book, among the best. Part of the appeal is the formula, which packs some impressive botanicals: witch hazel and tea tree oil help tackle odor-causing bacteria, while chamomile helps soothe skin. Add tried-and-true glycerin to the mix, and you've got a gel deodorant with some serious skincare cred, too.Then there's the application itself. The clear gel glides on effortlessly, with a cool, crisp, almost medicinal feel that's especially refreshing during the warmer months. Better still, it won't leave white marks on your shirts, something I always appreciate with my go-to black T-shirts. Is it the most heavy-duty odor fighter on this list? Not quite. But for everyday wear, it keeps the funk at bay without feeling like you've applied much of anything.The Best Lotion Texture Deodorant or Best Skin Soothing Deodorant: Freaks of Nature Everyday Endurance DeodorantFreaks of NatureEveryday Endurance DeodorantI test a lot of deodorants, but few become permanent fixtures in my bathroom. So it's worth telling you that Freaks of Nature's Everyday Endurance has become my primary deodorant lately. The brand may be known best for sunscreen, but it knows its way around our underarms too. And much like its sunscreens, part of the appeal is the application. The lotion-like formula emerges through a clever F-shaped grate, and there's something oddly satisfying about watching it dispense before smoothing it onto your underarms.Better still, it absorbs well without any gunky, sticky residue. Cocoa butter and sunflower oil give it a skin-conditioning quality that makes this one of the most soothing deodorants I've ever worn. It's premium-priced, sure, but between the standout application, exemplary performance, and skin-conditioning feel, it's worth every penny.The Best Smelling Deodorant: Salt & Stone DeodorantGone are the days when deodorant had to smell like “Sports Ice Rush.” Today's best odor fighters offer sophisticated, subtle scents (so they don't compete with your cologne), and Salt & Stone remains one of the top examples, with deodorants that have actual scent pyramids—Saffron & Cedar, Black Rose & Oud, Bergamot & Hinoki, for example. All are nuanced, refined, and never too loud.But it's not just about the scent. The formula neutralizes odor and absorbs excess moisture very well, while skincare-centric additions like niacinamide and shea butter help keep underarms comfortable. More importantly, in my experience, the fragrance doesn't devolve into some funky olfactory murk by day's end. You still smell like the scent you applied that morning, or at the very least, fresh. Are these the heaviest-duty or most affordable deodorants out there? Nope. But they deliver on fragrance and function, and that's a combination worth investing in.More Deodorants We LoveCaldera LabThe DeoCaldera Lab just launched its first deodorant, and given the brand's skincare chops, it's no surprise the formula reads like a serum: niacinamide, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid soothe and hydrate; postbiotics and magnesium tackle odor; and arrowroot absorbs moisture. Stacked, indeed.AesopHerbal DeodorantCan Aesop do any wrong? Not really, and its deodorant spray is another example of the botanical-meets-aromatic goodness the amber-hued brand does so well. It's the only spray on this list, and while its odor protection holds up well, a midday refresh is sometimes warranted—and honestly, part of the pleasure.NecessaireThe DeodorantIf your skin is extra sensitive, Nécessaire's entire fragrance-free lineup is exemplary, and its deodorant stick is no exception. It keeps odor impressively in check, is easy on sensitive underarms, and won't compete with your favorite cologne. It's also aluminum- and baking soda-free, dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and even carries the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance.CremoDeodorantCremo may be kings of shave cream, but it knows a thing or two about deodorant, too. The formulas are affordable, the odor protection holds up, and the scents smell so damn good. Take Palo Santo, with its warm, woody, slightly smoky aroma that feels far more sophisticated than its price suggests. Coconut oil and shea butter add the skin-conditioning touch you'd expect from a pricier stick. rant quietly in the background, look elsewhere—but if you like a lot of fragrance with your funk-fighting, Cremo delivers serious bang for the buck.The GreyAll Day DeodorantThe Grey's culty, rightfully hyped deodorant is the best old-school-style roll-on I've ever tried. The unscented formula is so lightweight you almost have to check you're applying anything, but oh, you are, and there's a cooling tingle as it goes on. It's the most expensive deodorant on this list, but with its premium slim aluminum casing and impressively lightweight formula, it's an investment in barely-there odor-fighting care.Malin + GoetzEucalyptus DeodorantMalin+Goetz's Eucalyptus Deodorant is a stone-cold classic that helped elevate gel sticks and make them feel refreshingly natural. The scent is practically a trademark at this point, equal parts medicinal, herbal, and oh-so-subtle. But there's substance behind it: eucalyptus extract helps refresh skin, while odor-neutralizing citronellyl methylcrotonate keeps the funk at bay.How We TestedAs a grooming editor, I've tried more sticks, sprays, gels, and roll-ons than I can count, from drugstore staples to niche newcomers. And while plenty have impressed me on first swipe, the real test is whether I keep reaching for them weeks, months, or even years later.Here, I drew on firsthand testing, focusing on odor protection, scent, texture, application, skin comfort, and, of course, how well they hold up. I've worn these deodorants through warm and cool weather, long days, and everything in between. Some are favorites I've relied on for years, while others are newer that are now part of my medicine cabinet rotation. As I've said, the best deodorant sometimes depends on the occasion or even the season, so it's a good idea to have a few on hand if possible. At the end of the day, a deodorant needs to keep B.O. at bay, ideally absorb excess moisture, and feel comfortable. Some excel in certain areas more than others, but each one above warrants its spot among the best deodorants.What to Look for in Deodorant, According to DermatologistsHere is some dermatologist advice on deodorants—the best ingredients to look for, plus some controversial ones, too—with insights from board-certified dermatologists Kiran Mian, Ryan B. Turner, and Heather Rogers.The IngredientsThe primary cause of body odor is “bad” bacteria pairing up with sweat. There are two ways to prevent the stink: Reduce perspiration in the area, and/or create an inhospitable environment for the bacteria.For Bacteria ControlThese are the most common ingredients to seek out if you want to temper the proliferation of bacteria in your pits (and anywhere you’re particularly pungent).This antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory mineral safely and effectively kills bacteria without irritating skin, says Mian.Dr. Mian also endorses the non-irritating magnesium hydroxide, a naturally occurring compound that neutralizes bacteria without absorbing into the skin.“The terpenes in tea tree oil make this ingredient naturally antibacterial and antifungal, helping to reduce body odor,” Turner says. “In its pure, concentrated form, it can be very irritating. It’s best to use a product that’s formulated with tea tree oil at low percentages. It’s still effective when diluted, and a little bit goes a very long way.”This one is controversial to some. Most skin types will tolerate baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) just fine, but only trust reputable, well-reviewed brands who use it. “Baking soda has a very alkaline pH level, while that of the skin is more acidic,” explains Turner. “This disrupts the skin’s natural barrier, harming the good bacteria in our microbiome, and leaving our skin more susceptible to irritation and inflammation.” (We’ve included a few deodorants with baking soda below, plus many natural picks that explicitly exclude it.)Prebiotics and probioticsIt’s easy to get these two confused, but they share a principle. “Prebiotics feed the good bacteria on our skin (bacteria that does not break down sweat releasing a foils odor), which then overpopulates those odor-producing bacteria,” explains Mian. “Probiotics are the good bacteria that will ideally populate the skin and overtake odor causing bacteria.” The names of these might be strange to you, like lactobacillus acidophilus or saccharomyces ferment. Chances are, a brand will proudly tout their pre- and probiotics, so look for that indication instead.“These chemical exfoliating ingredients help resurface the skin, which also strips away bacteria as well as removes the dead skin that bacteria break down, which causes body odor,” says Turner. And Dr. Rogers echoes the love: “Using acids to exfoliate the skin in our armpits helps rebuild the acidic mantle [which is compromised with age], leading to better control of bacterial growth and odor. Many acids work great; glycolic, lactic acid and mandelic acid are my favorites. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, has a higher chance of irritation.”For Moisture Mitigation“Activated charcoal can help to absorb sweat and help to neutralize odors,” says Turner.Starches and Botanical PowdersArrowroot powder, tapioca starch, and cornstarch are popular ingredients in aluminum-free deodorants, helping absorb excess moisture and keep underarms feeling dry without blocking sweat production. Of tapioca starch, Mian says, “This non-irritating starch won’t clog sweat ducts like aluminum, which can cause breakouts.” (It's also terrific in anti-chafe products for similar moisture-absorbing benefits.) “Like tapioca starch, corn starch pulls moisture from the skin to leave a powdery feeling behind. Unless you have an allergy to these plants, they are safer to use,” says Turner. Both doctors particularly favor arrowroot powder as a naturally derived, generally well-tolerated ingredient for absorbing moisture.Kaolin and Bentonite ClaysBoth help soak up surface moisture without blocking sweat production. Freaks of Nature's formula includes bentonite clay.A naturally occurring, porous mineral powder that absorbs excess moisture and helps keep underarms dry. You'll find it in Ursa Major's deodorant.How to Choose the Right DeodorantApproach your deodorant purchase with the following considerations:While it’s easy to celebrate a fully natural formula—and for good reason—keep in mind that not all natural ingredients are inherently good for your skin. Ingredients like baking soda and certain essential oils can cause irritation, particularly if your underarms are sensitive. Conversely, synthetic ingredients aren't automatically bad for your skin, either. “What’s more important is to consider the manufacturer of the products—are they reputable? Do they perform extensive testing? What are the ingredients used and from where are they sourced?” says Turner. That's sound advice whether you're shopping natural or synthetic. There's a reason dermatologists frequently recommend established brands like Dove: They have the resources to develop, test, and manufacture formulas at scale, often at a fraction of the price of more niche alternatives. Of course, that doesn't mean smaller brands aren't doing their homework, either. Finding the right deodorant still takes some trial and error, gents, but you can always start with our list.If your underarms are easily irritated, start with the ingredient list. Baking soda, strong fragrances, essential oils, and certain acids can trigger irritation, though everyone's skin reacts differently. Look for skin-conditioning ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and aloe, several of which you'll find in the deodorants featured above. Fragrance-free formulas are a smart starting point for sensitive skin, while unscented are worth considering, too—just know that some contain masking fragrances.Deodorants come in all sorts of formats these days, from classic solid sticks and clear gels to sprays, roll-ons, lotions, and pastes. How they feel when you apply them matters as much as how well they work. Some glide on more smoothly, while others feel chalkier, thicker, or more moisturizing. Gels and roll-ons tend to feel lightweight and refreshing (great for warmer weather), while richer lotions and pastes feel more nourishing and suit the cooler months. Ultimately, the best deodorant feels comfortable, doesn't leave residue on your clothes, and fits your lifestyle.The Dermatologists We Spoke WithDr. Kiran Mian is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in NYC, and volunteer faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai University.Dr. Ryan B. Turner is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Turner Dermatology in NYC and the TRNR Skin skin care line.Dr. Heather Rogers is a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Seattle and the founder of the Doctor Rogers skin care line.