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10 Best Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits of 2023 (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! Vanicream's Clinical Strength Deodorant was our top pick due to its non-irritating and moisturizing formula. There are nine other 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. 

Last updated 10/03/2023
Dr. Lauren Levy
Expert
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

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.

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Table of Contents

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! 

1

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

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. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified DermatologistDr. Lauren Levy

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

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. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified DermatologistDr. Lauren Levy

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 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. 

2

Know Ingredients That Can Prevent Body Odor

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. 

3

Look for a Deodorant With Aluminum Salts To Minimize Sweating

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. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified DermatologistDr. Lauren Levy

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.

4

Search for a Moisturizing Formula

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.  

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified DermatologistDr. Lauren Levy

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.

5

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 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. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified DermatologistDr. Lauren Levy

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-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

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! 

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10 Best Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits

After looking through the Internet, we've found the 10 best deodorants for those with sensitive armpits! We chose them based on important factors listed in the buying guide below and reviewer comments.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Vanicream

Clinical Strength Deodorant Unscented

Vanicream Clinical Strength Deodorant  1枚目

Free From Many Potential Irritants

2

Humble

All Natural Deodorant Mountain Lavender

Humble All Natural Deodorant  1枚目

Made With Only Natural Ingredients

3

Native

Deodorant Coconut & Vanilla

Native Deodorant  1枚目

A Natural, Non-Irritating, and Moisturizing Formula

4

Almay

Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant Fragrance Free

Almay Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant  1枚目

Suitable For Those With Fragrance Sensitivity

5

Super Natural Goods

Underarmed Lavender + Eucalyptus

Super Natural Goods  Underarmed  1枚目

Soften Your Skin With This Deodorant

6

Ban

Purely Gentle Roll-on Unscented, 2 pack

Ban Purely Gentle Roll-on  1枚目

Quick-Drying and Leaves No Residue Behind

7

Kopari Beauty

Deodorant

Kopari Beauty Deodorant  1枚目

Sage Oil to Calm Sensitive Skin

8

Beekman 1802

Milk Stick Invisible Deodorant

Beekman 1802 Milk Stick Invisible Deodorant 1枚目

Great for People Allergic to Baking Soda

9

Dove

Advanced Care Dry Spray Cool Essentials

Dove Advanced Care Dry Spray  1枚目

A Convenient Deodorant Spray for Sensitive Pits

10

Schmidt's

Natural Deodorant Hemp Seed Oil & Patchouli

Schmidt's  Natural Deodorant  1枚目

Vegan, Cruelty-Free, and Moisturizing Deodorant

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

VanicreamClinical Strength Deodorant Unscented

Clinical Strength Deodorant  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Clinical Strength Deodorant  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.99
Reference price
$9.99

Free From Many Potential Irritants

Vanicream's Clinical Strength Deodorant contains 20 percent aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly to reduce sweating and minimize body odor. Formulated with sensitive skin in mind, it's free from potential irritants such as fragrance, lanolin, paraben, and formaldehyde. 


Some buyers say this deodorant leaves a lot of white clumps behind. Even so, many buyers, including those with sensitive skin, confirm that it's gentle on skin and doesn't cause any breakouts, rashes, or other allergic reactions. They also appreciate that it's very effective in eliminating body odor

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

HumbleAll Natural Deodorant Mountain Lavender

All Natural Deodorant  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
All Natural Deodorant  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.99
Reference price
$11.99

Made With Only Natural Ingredients

This vegan, cruelty-free deodorant from Humble is made with only a few natural ingredients. It contains coconut oil to protect you from odor-causing bacteria and corn starch to keep you dry. The scent is also naturally derived from lavender essential oil. What's more, this deodorant is free from baking soda, aluminum, and dyes!


A few reviewers say that this deodorant leaves a residue behind and is hard to clean off. On the other hand, many love the non-irritating formula and further note that the fragrance isn't overwhelming. They also like that the effects last for a long time.

No.3

NativeDeodorant Coconut & Vanilla

Deodorant  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Deodorant  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.97
Reference price
$11.97

A Natural, Non-Irritating, and Moisturizing Formula

Native's Coconut & Vanilla Deodorant uses a combination of natural ingredients, such as caprylic triglyceride, tapioca starch, baking soda, and magnesium hydroxide, to absorb wetness and prevent body odor. It also contains probiotics that promote the growth of good bacteria to tackle odor-causing bacteria.  


A few reviewers say that it stains, but most reviewers confirm that it doesn't lead to any allergic reactions. They like that helps keep their underarm skin dry, moisturized, and comfortable throughout the day. They also enjoy this deodorant's pleasant coconut and vanilla scent. 

No.4

AlmaySensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant Fragrance Free

Sensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$2.29
Reference price
$2.29

Suitable For Those With Fragrance Sensitivity

Made with aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly, this product from Almay works both as a deodorant and antiperspirant. It's fragrance-free, making it a good choice for those with fragrance sensitivity. Plus, the gel formula doesn't cause any white marks on your clothes. 


According to some reviewers, this deodorant leaves a sticky sensation on the skin and dries it out a little. Nonetheless, the majority are pleased that it doesn't lead to any skin irritation and is truly effective in eliminating body odor and controlling sweat. 

No.5

Super Natural Goods Underarmed Lavender + Eucalyptus

Underarmed  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Underarmed  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
Reference price
$14.99

Soften Your Skin With This Deodorant

Super Natural Goods' deodorant stick uses baking soda, coconut oil, mineral salt, and hydrogen peroxide to eliminate body odor and leave you feeling fresh. Plus, moisturizing honey, vitamin E, avocado oil, and sunflower oil leave your skin feeling soft and nourished


Some buyers warn that this deodorant leaves oily stains on clothes, and others suggest using a small amount for the best results. Even so, many reviewers confirm that it doesn't cause allergic reactions, such as rashes and burning. They add that it does a great job of eliminating body odor.

No.6

BanPurely Gentle Roll-on Unscented, 2 pack

Purely Gentle Roll-on  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Purely Gentle Roll-on  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$10.58
Reference price
$10.58

Quick-Drying and Leaves No Residue Behind

Ban's Purely Gentle Roll-on works both as a deodorant and antiperspirant. Formulated with 18 percent aluminum chlorohydrate, it not only reduces your body odor but also minimizes sweating. It's unscented and is great for those who want to avoid strong scents. 


The review section is overwhelmingly positive, with most buyers saying it goes on nicely and doesn't irritate their skin. What's more, many are happy that it dries fast and keeps them fresh for a long time. They add that this roll-on doesn't leave behind any residue. 

No.7

Kopari BeautyDeodorant

Deodorant  Image 1
Source:ulta.com
Reference price
$14.00
Reference price
$14.00

Sage Oil to Calm Sensitive Skin

This plant-based deodorant uses the power of coconut oil to prevent body odor without blocking your pores. It's also infused with sage oil, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties to provide relief to sensitive skin. The formula is hydrating, too! 


A few buyers dislike that this deodorant makes their underarm skin a bit greasy. Some also mention that they have to re-apply it multiple times a day. Still, this deodorant receives many recommendations from buyers as it's gentle on skin, leaves no white marks, and has a nice scent. 

No.8

Beekman 1802Milk Stick Invisible Deodorant

Milk Stick Invisible Deodorant Image 1
Source:ulta.com
Reference price
$18.00
Reference price
$18.00

Great for People Allergic to Baking Soda

If you're allergic to baking soda, consider this deodorant by Beekman 1802! Combining citrus peel oil, coconut fruit juice, and rosemary leaf extract, it naturally eradicates odor-causing bacteria to keep your underarms fresh. Goat milk soothes sensitive skin, too! 


Many buyers say this deodorant keeps body odors away, but some note that it doesn't last for a long time. Besides that, a lot of buyers like that it glides on smoothly and doesn't cause rashes or breakouts

No.9

DoveAdvanced Care Dry Spray Cool Essentials

Advanced Care Dry Spray  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Advanced Care Dry Spray  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$5.56
Reference price
$5.56

A Convenient Deodorant Spray for Sensitive Pits

Dove's Advanced Care Dry Spray is aluminum-based and can help prevent body odor and reduce sweat. Plus, it's made without alcohol and has a fresh scent. Since it's formulated with sunflower seed oil, this deodorant can moisturize your skin as well. 


Some buyers find the spray difficult to use. Nevertheless, this deodorant is still many reviewers' favorite as it's quick-drying and leaves no residue behind. They add that it makes their skin feel moisturized and reduces body odor effectively. Buyers also like that the formula is non-irritating, and the scent is pleasant. 

No.10

Schmidt's Natural Deodorant Hemp Seed Oil & Patchouli

Natural Deodorant  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Natural Deodorant  Image 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$8.33
Reference price
$8.33

Vegan, Cruelty-Free, and Moisturizing Deodorant

Schmidt's Natural Deodorant is certified vegan and cruelty-free. It includes ingredients such as coconut oil, arrowroot powder, and magnesium hydroxide to minimize body odor. It also contains many moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, and hemp seed oil. 


The major complaint some reviewers have about this deodorant is the overwhelming scent. Yet, many customers like that it's formulated with natural ingredients and doesn't irritate their underarm skin. They also say that the deodorant protects them from bad odor for a long time. 

Dr. Levy's Recommended Deodorant for Sensitive Armpits

Dr. Levy's Recommended Deodorant for Sensitive Armpits
Source:amazon.com
Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified DermatologistDr. Lauren Levy

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."

More Non-Irritating Skincare Products

It's hard to choose skincare products for sensitive skin as it's highly prone to irritation. But don't worry! We have many product guides that will help you choose skincare products that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. 

Top 5 Deodorants for Sensitive Armpits

No. 1: VanicreamClinical Strength Deodorant Unscented

No. 2: HumbleAll Natural Deodorant Mountain Lavender

No. 3: NativeDeodorant Coconut & Vanilla

No. 4: AlmaySensitive Skin Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant Fragrance Free

No. 5: Super Natural Goods Underarmed Lavender + Eucalyptus

View Full Ranking

The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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