11 Best Smelling Deodorants That Really Work
Feel the exotic power and freshness of a mild fragrance that creates a lasting impression.
Brooke Belldon is a perfume expert and the founder and curator of Sainte Cellier, a UK-based online fragrance platform. She has been working in the perfume world for the past decade and is a collector of vintage and niche fragrances. Her frustration with the difficulty in finding niche fragrances she loved in the UK paved the way for Sainte Cellier.
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Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
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The best-smelling deodorant can get you through a challenging presentation at work or through a sweaty, hot yoga class. Deodorants are our lifesavers, and without them, it is a different story. We all know what happens when we don’t use deodorant, disaster! An absolute calamity! Not having one is a bigger calamity. That is why having the right deodorant can set the mood of your day without sniffing your armpits every few hours in suspicion. Even though sweating is a natural process, especially if you worked out at the gym or went outdoors, stinking to high heavens is not something you would want. To avoid that, buying a few deodorants can do the trick. Be it citrusy or floral, there are many options out there that can make your stinky crisis easier. To make your life a tad easier, we have put together a list of the top-smelling deodorants on the market. Scroll down to know more!
In This Article
Smell Fresh All Day Long With The 11 Best-Smelling Deodorants In 2024
1. Best Non-Staining:Lume Natural Deodorant For Underarms And Private Parts – Jasmine Rose
Lume’s got you covered with some of the best deodorant scents out there, and their safe formulas aren’t disappointing either. The natural deodorant formula is clinically proven to control odor for up to 72 hours. It doesn’t contain any baking soda or parabens that can cause harm to the skin. You can easily rub on this water-based roll-on deodorant and not worry about embarrassing stains left behind. Naturally scented with jasmine and rose, Lume’s popular feminine scented deodorant is one you won’t regret everyday use. Further, the aluminum-free deodorant is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Water-based formula
- Does not stain clothing
- Controls body odor for up to 72 hours
- Can be used anywhere on the body
Cons
- Some may find the scent to be a bit too heady
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 8,960 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
2. Best Long-Lasting Freshness:Underarmed Active Botanical Luxury Deodorant – Lavender + Eucalyptus
You can smell fresh all day long and have safe ingredients to do it, too, with Underarmed’s Active Botanical Luxury Deodorant. The aluminum-free formula contains a blend of organic active ingredients like beeswax, raw organic honey, vitamin E, and avocado butter. If this is not all, it also contains essential oils of lavender, eucalyptus, sunflower, and castor to detox and nourish your skin. This fresh-smelling deodorant has a subtle fragrance due to the mix of lavender and eucalyptus and boasts aromatherapeutic benefits. You can rest assured that not only will you stay smelling great, but this mild-smelling deodorant cares for your skin behind the scenes as well.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Safe for children
- Suitable for sensitive skin type
- Mild fragrance has aromatherapeutic benefits
- pH-balanced formula suitable for sensitive skin
- Doesn’t clog pores
- Made without SLS, parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances
Cons
- Might stain clothes
Quick TipBaking soda works wonders to clean deodorant stains. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply on the stain. Leave it for 20 minutes or overnight depending upon how deep the stain is. Machine wash the clothing in hot water.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 9,407 great reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Long-Lasting:Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Deodorant – Clean Lavender
Secret’s best-smelling deodorant for women not only absorbs body odor but also goes on super dry without leaving behind angry stains. For up to 48 hours, the Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Deodorant gives sweat protection through your long days of sports activities or errand runs. It is formulated with a clinically backed skin care ingredient, provitamin 5, that soothes the skin. In addition, it features an Adapts and Responds Technology that is quick to adapt to your body’s chemistry and puts an end to odor before it even begins. Through thick and thin, this scented deodorant will be your hygiene buddy. It offers clinically proven sweat protection. Further, the product has not gone through any animal testing. Before purchasing, check this personal review of the product on YouTube.
Pros
- Works for up to 48 hours
- Cruelty-free
- Applies smoothly and evenly
- Quick-drying formula
- Clinical strength deodorant
- Doesn’t stain clothes
- Minimizes sweating
Cons
- Contains aluminum
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 7,984 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
| Lume Natural Deodorant For Underarms And Private Parts - Jasmine Rose Best Non-Staining | Underarmed Active Botanical Luxury Deodorant - Lavender + Eucalyptus Best Long-Lasting Freshness | Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid Deodorant - Clean Lavender Best Long-Lasting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.65 x 2.2 x 1.42 inches | 1.38 x 2.5 x 5 inches | 1.63 x 2.63 x 5.56 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 Ounces. | 2.63 Ounces | 4.66 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 8,960 | 9,407 | 7,984 |
| Price | $44.99 | $23.99 | $12.97 |
4. Best Value Added Pack:Tom’s Of Maine Antiperspirant And Deodorant For Women – Natural Powder
Stay dry and odor-free for up to 24 hours with the Tom’s Of Maine best-smelling women’s deodorant. It is formulated with the active ingredients of naturally derived aluminum and olive leaf extract, which has antimicrobial properties to keep odor-causing bacterium at bay. The natural powder scent is easy on the senses and will keep you feeling refreshed all day long no matter what life throws at you. So, what are you waiting for? Grab this one before it’s too late! This product comes with many benefits. Further, it is not tested on animals. To know more about the deodorant, take a look at this review on YouTube.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial fragrances or preservatives
- Doesn’t contain silicones, talc, or parabens
- Contains a mild scent
- Long-lasting sweat protection
- Gets absorbed quickly
Cons
- Might leave behind a waxy feeling
Did You Know?Tom’s of Maine was born in the 1970s, embodying founders Tom and Kate Chappell’s entrepreneurial spirit and values. They launched the first natural toothpaste in the U.S. market in 1975.
5. Best Non-Toxic:M3 Naturals All Natural Deodorant With Magnesium – Green Tea and Aloe
Made with a non-toxic formula, you’ll find this nice-smelling deodorant to contain organic active ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, green tea, and magnesium with a blend of essential oils. M3 Naturals’ deodorant is suitable for all skin types and doesn’t contain any alcohol, aluminum salt, or baking soda to arm you against sweat and body odor fully. It has a mild fragrance of aloe vera and green tea that doesn’t feel too strong on the senses.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Natural product
- Suitable for all skin types
- Doesn’t contain alcohol, aluminium, or baking soda
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Can only be used on the underarms
6. Best Cruelty-Free:Humble Brands Natural Deodorant – Lavender & Holy Basil
A deodorant that not only stops you from sweating profusely but also emanates a calming, fresh scent is a sure winner. If you like this idea, we’re sure you’ll love this deodorant smelling of lavender and holy basil. Made with coconut oil, natural baking soda, essential oils, and beeswax, this formula works to keep your skin sweat-protected until you’re back home from work. With simple and non-toxic ingredients, this gentle deodorant does a great job of keeping stubborn odors at bay. You can check this honest review out for a brief analysis of the deodorant. The reviewer’s experience suggests this product has a proven efficacy in keeping you away from smelly armpits for several hours.
Pros
- Doesn’t contain aluminium, parabens, GMOs
- Cruelty-free
- Smoothes skin texture
- Moisturizes skin
- Quick-drying
- Made without alcohol, dyes, or artificial fragrances
Cons
- Might have a sticky consistency
7. Best Alcohol-Free:Dove Advanced Care Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick Cool Essentials
On hot summer days, you feel like you want to shower every chance you get. But as this isn’t possible with hectic schedules, Dove’s deodorant feels like a shower every time you apply it. Its cucumber and green tea scent is highly refreshing and revitalizes the senses with each use. Stay cool and light with up to 48 hours of protection from sweat with Dove’s Advanced Care Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick. The alcohol-free formula ensures that your skin is protected from the irritation caused due to shaving. And to further condition the skin, this formula also contains moisturizers with natural oils to keep your underarms feeling soft and smooth. The reviews show it is proven to deliver visible results in preventing smelly armpits.
Pros
- 48-hour antiperspirant protection
- Cruelty-free
- Alcohol-free
- Moisturizes skin
- Non-irritating formula
- Stick glides on smoothly
Cons
- Might not be quick-drying
8. Best Aluminium-Free:PHLUR Explore Naturals Aluminium-Free Natural Deodorant – Cypress Breeze
If you’ve meant to make the switch to aluminum-free deodorants, PHLUR’s Performance line is a great place to start. You also won’t find other harsh elements like gluten, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates in this formulation so that your skin can stay healthy while fighting odor. With a smooth formula that glides on skin easily, the aloe, cypress, and green tea combine to give a mild yet refreshing scent that feels like a treat in the middle of a hot, busy day. PHLUR’s high-performance formula is effective at safeguarding your skin from unpleasant smells and wetness all day long.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Aluminium-free
- Paraben-free
- 24-hour protection
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Might not be ideal for sensitive skin type
9. Best Organic:Beauty By Earth Aluminium Free Deodorant Vanilla Coconut
Switching to natural ingredients and products comes with a plethora of benefits, and with deodorants, smelling good is one too! Made with certified organic ingredients, this vanilla-scented deodorant will stop sweat in its tracks to keep you dry and fresh throughout a stressful workday. The stick glides as smooth as butter on your underarms to keep them fresh and cool. To deeply condition your skin and leave it feeling mochi-soft, essential oils are abundant along with coconut and shea butter in this formulation. Armed with a delicious vanilla scent, Beauty By Earth’s Aluminium Free Deodorant is reliable and will give you the confidence to take more risks in your day-to-day life.
Pros
- Gender-neutral deodorant
- Works for up to 24 hours
- Made with organic ingredients
- Non-irritating formula
- Doesn’t result in buildup
- Softens skin
Cons
- Might leave behind stains
10. Best Mild Scent:Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant Anti-Perspirant Stick
Nothing like bagging a high-end beauty product to get our spirits up and running again, right? Donna Karan’s best-smelling antiperspirant is just that — a luxurious formula that glides on smoothly to keep you smelling like a dream. Contrary to traditional deodorants, this one has a subtle and sensual scent perfect for when you’re just getting ready for bed. And due to its long-staying power, the fragrance will carry on to the next day, too!
Pros
- Subtle and sensual scent
- Glides on smoothly
- Long staying power
- Aluminium-free
- Doesn’t stain clothes
- Quick-dry
Cons
- Slightly expensive
11. Best Easy-To-Use:Degree MotionSense UltraClear Black+White Pure Clean Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick
As women’s bodies can release sweat and odor even due to hormonal changes, Degree is here to help you combat just that. Without leaving behind any stubborn stains or marks, this antiperspirant is alcohol-free to help you against both odor and sweat. With the Degree MotionSense technology, bursts of scent are released in response to friction so you stay fresh and smell delicious through even the most strenuous of activities. Oh, and did we mention that the packaging is also recyclable? Honestly, what’s not to love?
Pros
- No yellow or white stains
- Lasts for up to 48 hours
- Keeps underarms dry
- Has a clean scent
- Affordable
- Glides on easily
Cons
- Some may find the scent to be overpowering
Now that we’ve gone over some of the best smelling deodorants out there, let’s look at how you can choose the best one for yourself!
How To Choose The Best Scented Deodorant
- Harmful chemicals
As deodorant is applied directly to the skin, you must be mindful of the ingredients that go into its making to ensure optimum skin health. A majority of deodorants use baking soda to reduce body odor, but you might want to stay away from it if you have sensitive skin. Magnesium is a great alternative that not only minimizes bad odor, but also keeps the pH balance of the skin intact. You will also find aluminum in a lot of deodorants but it might leave those nasty yellow stains on your favorite clothes. To protect skin from the harmful effects of these ingredients, many brands these days have been formulating deodorants with clean, organic ingredients to keep the skin healthy. Also keep in mind to avoid products that use parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oils, dyes, and fragrances.
- Ingredients
Blends of essential oils and moisturizing elements like aloe vera, cocoa, and shea butters will help nourish the skin. And as deodorants are generally used after showers, or as a pick-me-up in the middle of the day, pick those that have refreshing ingredients like green tea, lavender, cucumber, or eucalyptus for the scented base for a revitalizing feel.
- Type
Sprays are the traditional deodorant that has a convenient formula that goes on clear and leaves no residue. However, sprays can have a stronger scent, so pick these kinds only if you can tolerate heavy fragrance. Roll-on deodorants come in a stick form that you roll over the skin that you want to deodorize, and they’re great to travel with. Even though this formula dries fast, it might leave stains on clothes if aluminum salt is part of the ingredient list. But roll-ons usually have a long-staying power, so don’t worry about skipping a shower. Antiperspirant deodorants reduce the amount of sweat your body produces and neutralize its odor, whereas deodorants perform the latter function. They’re a great pick if you’re looking to combat wetness and unpleasant smells throughout the day. Solid deodorants have the consistency of a thick creamy soap and glide on like a roll-on with a smooth yet opaque formula. Some may leave behind stains or residue, so ensure to check the ingredient label. Invisible solid deodorants upgrade from the previous kind and are quite the catch if you don’t want stains on your clothing. The consistency is similar to a solid deodorant, but the residue it leaves behind is clear instead of white, so all your clothes are safe!
Infographic: Scented Deodorants: What Ingredients To Look For & What To Avoid
If going on a date with your crush and realizing your armpits might be smelling bad is your worst nightmare, we are here to help. We all know how important deodorants are, but how do you find the one that has long-lasting effects and will save you from embarrassment? We have some tips that can help you choose the right one. Check out the infographic below!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Excessive sweating is not only uncomfortable but also an impression-killer. After a vigorous workout session or when you have a physically exhausting workday, you are often drenched in sweat. One easy escape from malodor from sweat is a nice deodorant. The Lume Natural Deodorant For Underarms And Private Parts – Jasmine Rose is a gentle, eco-friendly option that is great for sensitive skin. The Underarmed Active Botanical Luxury Deodorant – Lavender + Eucalyptus is a premium option with antimicrobial properties, suitable for every skin type, while the Dove Advanced Care Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick Cool Essentials is an affordable choice that is ideal for everyday use on delicate skin. The best smelling deodorants help eliminate sweat and keep you odor-free. They don’t contain any harmful chemicals that irritate the skin. These skin-friendly formulae come in handy when you need to make an impression on a sweaty day. You can try different scents according to your liking. Some products are also cruelty-free, alcohol-free, and do not contain artificial fragrances. However, some deodorants may stain the clothes. So, read the reviews well and choose the best deodorants that don’t irritate your skin. Stay clean and fresh all day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to breathe in deodorant?
No, it is not ok to breathe in deodorant as it contains butane which is harmful to humans.
How do you not smell when wearing deodorant?
Bathe with an antibacterial soap regularly to remove BO-inducing microorganisms from your skin. Use an antiperspirant to keep you from sweating and a deodorant to hide body odor with fragrance while killing microorganisms.
How long does it take to stop smelling after deodorant?
It can take up to 2-4 weeks to stop smelling after deodorant.
Why do my armpits smell no matter what deodorant I use?
Excessive sweating can result in a stinky armpit even if you apply deodorant or antiperspirant.
What is a woman’s natural scent called?
A woman’s natural scent is called androstadienone.
Read full bio of Brooke Belldon
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
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