10 Best Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits of 2024 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
Deodorants are a great way to eliminate body odor and keep your underarms fresh throughout the day. However, some products might contain potential irritants like fragrance and baking soda and are not suitable for those with sensitive underarm skin. To prevent irritation, it's important to look for a formula that's free from potential irritants and contains moisturizers to nourish your delicate skin.
If you don't know which products are safe for your sensitive skin, take a look at our list of favorites! There are ten great options on our list, so keep reading to learn more. We also created a buying guide with many tips to help you with your decision.
Quick List - Top Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits
Almay
Gentle All-Day Protection for Sensitive Skin
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- 10 Best Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits
- No. 1VANICREAM | Deodorant
- No. 2Almay | Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant ｜Fragrance Free
- No. 3Fresh Monster | Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant for Kids and Teens
- No. 4Ban | Unscented Roll-on Deodorant
- No. 5Lume | Clean Tangerine | Solid Stick Deodorant
- 5 more products
- Dr. Levy's Recommended Deodorant for Sensitive Armpits
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are armpits so sensitive?
- Why does natural deodorant burn my armpits?
How to Choose a Deodorant for Sensitive Armpits - Buying Guide
Before purchasing a deodorant for your sensitive armpits, you will need to consider important factors such as the type and the formula. It's important to avoid potential irritants like fragrances, too!
Keep in Mind Some Common Potential Irritants
In this section, we will walk you through some ingredients that might be irritating to your skin. Read on to learn more!
Ethanol Might Dry Out Your Skin
Many deodorants are formulated with ethanol, an alcohol that's effective in killing odor-causing bacteria. However, it can dry out your sensitive skin and might even lead to itchiness.
But not all alcohols are bad for your skin! Many deodorants contain fatty alcohols such as stearyl alcohol. They act as emollients to moisturize skin and also work as a thickener to bind the ingredients together. The best part is that they are not irritating, even to sensitive skin.
Ethanol tends to be drying and can exacerbate conditions like eczema. Many gel deodorants or roll-on formulations contain ethanol, so avoid this if you are eczema-prone. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating, a gel or ethanol-based product can assist in wicking moisture.
Consider a Fragrance-Free Formula
Fragrances are usually added to deodorants to mask your body odor. However, fragrances are proven to be a major cause of allergic contact dermatitis. So, for those with fragrance sensitivity, look for a fragrance-free formula.
There are also many deodorants labeled as "unscented," but don't confuse them with fragrance-free products. Unscented deodorants might contain masking fragrances to cover up the smells of other ingredients, even if the product itself doesn't have a noticeable smell. Therefore, they might still be irritating to people allergic to fragrances.
If you are allergy-prone or have a history of contact dermatitis, make sure you check the ingredient list on the product. There are many chemicals and ingredients that give a product fragrance, so you need to make sure the specific product does not contain the ingredient you are allergic to.
Additionally, check the ingredient for essential oils, which can make the product smell good but may still cause a skin reaction. If you have had a skin allergy evaluation with a dermatologist, ask them for a list of products that are safe for you to use.
Baking Soda May Change Your Skin's pH Level
Baking soda is frequently used in deodorants since it has strong antibacterial properties to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. However, due to its alkaline nature, baking soda might alter your skin's pH level and strip your skin of its natural oils.
If you choose a deodorant with baking soda, make sure it contains moisturizers to counteract its drying properties. Good moisturizing ingredients usually found in deodorants include sunflower seed oil, shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil.
Know Ingredients That Can Prevent Body Odor
Baking soda is one of the most common ingredients to prevent body odor in deodorants. But if you're allergic to baking soda, consider deodorants with ingredients such as arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, and corn starch. They are gentle on the skin and are effective in absorbing moisture and preventing odor.
Many deodorants also use coconut oil, which has strong antibacterial properties to kill odor-causing bacteria. Other odor-eliminating ingredients that are generally safe for sensitive skin include zinc oxide and magnesium hydroxide.
Look for a Deodorant With Aluminum Salts To Minimize Sweating
Typically, deodorants only help you mask body odor and cannot reduce sweating. But some deodorants also work as antiperspirants to minimize wetness. The active ingredients in those two-in-one products are aluminum compounds like aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly and aluminum chlorohydrate.
They plug up sweat ducts to temporarily prevent sweating. However, there are concerns that those aluminum salts might lead to health problems such as breast cancer and kidney disease. But so far, no conclusive evidence has been established that aluminum salts negatively impact human health.
So if you have a problem with sweating, consider deodorants that contain aluminum salts. But if you are allergic to aluminum salts or just want to avoid them, opt for a deodorant formulated with ingredients like tapioca starch, charcoal, arrowroot powder, and baking soda.
Keep in mind that these ingredients won't stop you from sweating. Instead, they soak up excess moisture to keep you feeling dry and comfortable.
Aluminum is the gold standard antiperspirant ingredient. It is the ingredient that reduces the amount of sweat. If you are someone who produces a lot of moisture or suffers from hyperhidrosis, a condition with excessive sweating, then make sure you chose a product that has aluminum in it.
Many recent media publications suggest that aluminum can cause cancer; however, scientific and epidemiological studies to date have found no association between aluminum deodorant and breast cancer.
Search for a Moisturizing Formula
Your underarm skin is very sensitive and can become damaged when shaved or waxed. Shaving and waxing might dry out your skin, too!
To prevent skin irritation and keep your underarm skin nourished and moisturized, look for a formula with effective hydrating ingredients like glycerin or dimethicone. Plant-based oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, and shea butter contain many fatty acids and can soften your skin as well.
Some deodorants are formulated with soothing ingredients like goat milk, sage oil, and aloe vera to calm your sensitive skin and prevent irritation.
Dimethicone is a great ingredient to look for if you are active and suffer from irritant dermatitis (chafing) in the armpit area. This ingredient acts as a barrier between the skin and can prevent skin-on-skin rubbing that can lead to an uncomfortable rash. It is a great ingredient to use if you work out outside and sweat often.
Choose a Form of Deodorant That Works Best for You
Deodorants come in sprays, roll-ons, or sticks. It's important to know their pros and cons in order to choose the type that will work best for you.
Sprays Are Quick-Drying
Sprays dry quickly and are a great choice for occasions when you need instant odor control. You can also use it on other parts of your body like your feet, chest, or the back of your neck.
However, sprays wear off quickly, so you might have to re-apply frequently. On another note, sprays usually don't leave behind any white residue on your clothing.
I recommend sprays for those who are not heavy sweaters. It is often difficult to get the spray and active ingredients in the center of the armpit where most of the sweat glands are located. Additionally, many sprays can lead to clumping on the skin, which can lead to further skin irritation.
Roll-Ons Won't Leave Behind Any White Stains
Roll-on deodorants have a ball that applies a gel, liquid, or lotion. They are moisturizing, making them a great choice for those with dry underarms. However, roll-ons do take a while to dry and might leave your underarm skin feel a bit sticky.
On another note, many roll-ons go on clear and won't stain your clothing. Their compact size makes them convenient to pack in your bag, too!
Go for a Stick Deodorant for Ease of Use
Stick deodorants are usually made with wax, such as beeswax, carnauba wax, or candelilla wax. Their solid form makes them easy to put on. They also have great moisturizing properties and can give your dry underarm skin a boost in moisture.
However, stick deodorants might leave white residue on dark-colored clothing. To avoid this, make sure your deodorant completely dries before you get dressed. Overapplying deodorant might cause white marks as well. Just one or two swipes should be good enough!
10 Best Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Amount | Key Ingredients | Alcohol-Free | Fragrance-Free | Aluminum | Packaging | |||||
1 | VANICREAM Deodorant | | Advanced Odor Defense with Minimalist Sensitivity Care | 2 oz | Undecylenoyl Glycine, Sodium Hydroxide | Stick | ||||
2 | Almay Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant ｜Fragrance Free | | Gentle All-Day Protection for Sensitive Skin | 2.25 oz | Glycerin | Stick | ||||
3 | Fresh Monster Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant for Kids and Teens | | Best for Kids | 1.76 oz | Tapioca Starch, Baking Soda, Coconut Oil | Stick | ||||
4 | Ban Unscented Roll-on Deodorant | | Best Unscented Roll-on Deodorant and Antiperspirant | 3.5 oz | Sunflower Oil, Barley Extract | Roll-On | ||||
5 | Lume Clean Tangerine | Solid Stick Deodorant | | Stay Fresh from Head to Toe | 2.6 oz (Pack of 2) | Corn Starch | Stick | ||||
6 | Native Sensitive Deodorant Cucumber & Mint | | Pure Protection with Garden-Fresh Scents | 2.65 oz | Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Tapioca Starch | Stick | ||||
7 | Native Sensitive Deodorant Coconut & Vanilla | | Ultimate Freshness for All-Day Confidence | 2.3 oz | Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Tapioca Starch | Stick | ||||
8 | Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant Stick Sensitive | | Pure Freshness, Soft Comfort | 2.6 oz | Glycerin | Stick | ||||
9 | Dr. Squatch Bay Rum Deodorant, Alpine Sage Deodorant | | Deodorant Made for Men | 2.65 oz (Pack of 2) | Arrowroot Powder, Charcoal | Stick | ||||
10 | Duradry Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick | | Clinically Strong, Clothing-Friendly | 2.3 oz | Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex Gly | Stick | ||||
VANICREAMDeodorant
| Key Ingredients | Undecylenoyl Glycine, Sodium Hydroxide |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Advanced Odor Defense with Minimalist Sensitivity Care
VANICREAM™ Deodorant stands out as an aluminum-free option formulated specifically for sensitive skin. With a minimalist approach using only five ingredients—including purified water, triethyl citrate, and sodium polyacrylate—it targets odor at its source without compromising on skin comfort. This unscented gel is free from common irritants such as dyes, fragrance, parabens, and formaldehyde, making it suitable for those prone to skin sensitivities. Dermatologist tested and kid-friendly, it ensures gentle yet effective daily protection against odor. Ideal for individuals seeking a deodorant that prioritizes skin health, VANICREAM™ Deodorant offers a reliable solution that helps maintain underarm freshness without the risk of irritation, ensuring peace of mind throughout the day.
| Amount | 2 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
AlmaySensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant ｜ Fragrance Free
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Gentle All-Day Protection for Sensitive Skin
Almay Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant offers all-day wetness and odor protection with a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula designed for sensitive skin. This quick-drying gel leaves no white residue on clothing, making it a practical choice for daily use.
Dermatologist and allergy tested, this alcohol-free deodorant is safe for all skin types, providing effective protection without causing irritation. Its clear gel form ensures a smooth application, maintaining comfort and confidence throughout the day while being especially suitable for those with sensitive skin.
| Amount | 2.25 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
Fresh MonsterAluminum-Free Natural Deodorant for Kids and Teens
| Key Ingredients | Tapioca Starch, Baking Soda, Coconut Oil |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Best for Kids
Fresh Monster Kids’ Deodorant is crafted just for kids and teens who need safe and effective odor protection. This natural, aluminum-free deodorant provides 24-hour freshness with its fun Gummy Burst scent, perfect for active days at school, playdates, or sports. Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, Fresh Monster keeps young skin irritation-free and feeling smooth all day.
| Amount | 1.76 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
BanUnscented Roll-on Deodorant
| Key Ingredients | Sunflower Oil, Barley Extract |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Best Unscented Roll-on Deodorant and Antiperspirant
Pros:
- Roll-on structure for easier glide-on
- Phellodendron amurense bark extract and aluminum to kill odor-causing bacteria
- Cruelty-, dye-, and paraben-free formula
Cons:
- A few mentioned that it took longer than expected to dry
Ban's Unscented Roll-on Deodorant features an aluminum formula with extract from the Amur cork tree, which reduces your underarm odor and sweat by decreasing the accumulation of bacteria. The applicator's stick shape and roll-on balls facilitate easier application and leave behind no white flakes.
A few reviewers noted that it could take some time to dry after application. However, the majority of reviewers complimented the roll-on structure and how it glided on smoothly. They also noted the formula didn't leave behind white marks, and that the effectiveness lasted for a long time.
| Amount | 3.5 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Roll-On |
LumeClean Tangerine | Solid Stick Deodorant
| Key Ingredients | Corn Starch |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Stay Fresh from Head to Toe
Lume Whole-Body Deodorant isn’t just for underarms—it’s designed to tackle odor in all the places you wish it wouldn’t be. With clinical backing for up to 72-hour odor control, this formula doesn’t just mask smell; it prevents it from forming, thanks to its pH-optimized, science-based approach. Hypoallergenic and free from aluminum, baking soda, and parabens, it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive areas. The Clean Tangerine scent adds a burst of bright, sunny citrus wherever you need it.
| Amount | 2.6 oz (Pack of 2) |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
NativeSensitive Deodorant Cucumber & Mint
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Tapioca Starch |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Pure Protection with Garden-Fresh Scents
Native Cucumber & Mint Deodorant brings together crisp cucumber and cool mint for a refreshingly clean scent inspired by nature. Made without aluminum, parabens, baking soda, or phthalates, it offers effective odor protection using naturally derived ingredients. This solid deodorant glides on smoothly, delivering a light, fresh feel under the arms. Crafted with safe, sustainable fragrances and tested only on willing volunteers, Native provides high-performance odor control for both men and women.
| Amount | 2.65 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
NativeSensitive Deodorant Coconut & Vanilla
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Tapioca Starch |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Ultimate Freshness for All-Day Confidence
Stay fresh and confident with Native’s Whole Body Deodorant, clinically proven to provide 72-hour odor protection from head to toe. Formulated without aluminum, parabens, baking soda, or talc, this deodorant is safe for sensitive skin and offers long-lasting freshness. Designed for both men and women, it’s never tested on animals, except for willing human volunteers. Native’s smooth, gentle application lets you enjoy lasting odor protection on your underarms, privates, and beyond.
| Amount | 2.3 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
Dove0% Aluminum Deodorant Stick Sensitive
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Pure Freshness, Soft Comfort
Dove’s 0% Aluminum Deodorant Stick delivers long-lasting, 48-hour odor protection while being kind to sensitive skin. Alcohol-free and baking soda-free, this deodorant minimizes irritation, making it ideal for freshly-shaved underarms. Formulated with Dove’s signature ¼ moisturizers, it provides a soft, smooth feel, enhancing underarm comfort. The easy-glide application ensures a fresh start to every day, without sacrificing effective odor control.
| Amount | 2.6 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
Dr. SquatchBay Rum Deodorant, Alpine Sage Deodorant
| Key Ingredients | Arrowroot Powder, Charcoal |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Deodorant Made for Men
Kick odor to the curb with Squatch’s powerful Odor-Squatching™ deodorant, formulated with nature’s best. Each pack includes two invigorating scents, Alpine Sage and Bay Rum, crafted from natural ingredients like Arrowroot Powder, Charcoal, and Postbiotics to stop B.O. at the source. This deodorant is 98-100% natural, avoiding harsh chemicals while delivering reliable, long-lasting odor control. Designed for men who value
| Amount | 2.65 oz (Pack of 2) |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
DuradryAntiperspirant Deodorant Stick
| Key Ingredients | Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex Gly |
|---|---|
| Fragrance-Free |
Clinically Strong, Clothing-Friendly
Duradry AM’s antiperspirant formula is crafted for both men and women seeking superior protection against excessive sweating. Powered by a potent 20% active ingredient, it blocks sweat and neutralizes odor all day, helping you stay fresh through every activity. The ultra-dry, creamy stick leaves no marks on clothes and is travel-ready, lasting up to 8 weeks per 2.3oz bottle. Available in four sign
| Amount | 2.3 oz |
|---|---|
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Aluminum | |
| Packaging | Stick |
Dr. Levy's Recommended Deodorant for Sensitive Armpits
Vanicream's fragrance-free deodorant/antiperspirant is what I recommend for those with sensitive skin or a history of contact allergy. It does contain aluminum, which helps reduce sweating. I find it to be the deodorant that is least likely to cause contact allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Dr. Levy also took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about deodorant for sensitive armpits.
Why are armpits so sensitive?
"Axilla or armpit skin is very sensitive for many reasons," Dr. Levy explains. "Firstly, the skin in this area is thin compared to other areas of the body. Secondly, the area is occluded since it is in a fold and is often covered by clothing. This can lead to sweat and products becoming trapped and leads to irritation.
Lastly, there are numerous terminal hair follicles in this area, meaning that the area can be prone to forming acne lesions and folliculitis."
Why does natural deodorant burn my armpits?
Dr. Levy says, "Natural deodorant may burn due to certain ingredients present in the product. Essential oils, tea tree oil, and apple cider vinegar can irritate the skin causing a burning sensation. Additionally, applying products after shaving (when the pores are opened) can lead to irritation and burning. Avoid using a product with ethanol immediately after shaving as this can lead to a burning sensation."
Top 5 Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits
No. 1: VANICREAM｜Deodorant
No. 2: Almay｜Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant ｜Fragrance Free
No. 3: Fresh Monster｜Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant for Kids and Teens
No. 4: Ban｜Unscented Roll-on Deodorant
No. 5: Lume｜Clean Tangerine | Solid Stick Deodorant
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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