The 12 Best Clinical Strength Antiperspirants and Deodorants, Tested and Reviewed

Best Deodorant — Health / Tamara Staples

Whether you’re sweating due to workday nerves or you have regular gym sessions, dealing with noticeably sweaty (and sometimes smelly) pits is no fun. Deodorants and antiperspirants may make lofty claims, and there’s a lot of confusion surrounding them, so finding an option that works to curb moisture and odors can be difficult.

First, should you choose a deodorant or an antiperspirant? For most, an antiperspirant is ideal. A deodorant masks odors, while an antiperspirant blocks sweat glands, reducing wetness and body odors. For maximum wetness protection, you’ll want to look for an aluminum-based antiperspirant, and the dermatologists we spoke to tend to favor stick and roll-on varieties.

Since personal preference is largely at play here, we enlisted the help of multiple editors to test this category. We wore the deodorants and antiperspirants for 24 hours and exercised to work up a sweat to assess potentially damp and smelly pits. After this testing, the best options became obvious. We also had an expert from our Medical Expert Board read this article for accuracy before we published it.

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Why We Like It

It rolls on smoothly and doesn't leave white marks on clothing.

It’s Worth Noting

It passes the sniff test but doesn’t eliminate wetness entirely.

Give your pits the protection they need with our top pick, the Uriage Clinical Strength Deodorant. It’s a roll-on antiperspirant that glides on in just a few swipes to keep sweating at bay. The aluminum-based formula works by reducing underarm wetness, though it also targets odors. After a 15-minute treadmill workout and jumping jacks, the Uriage deodorant passed the sniff test and didn’t transfer onto black clothing. While there weren’t many downsides to this pick, we did notice that there was minor sweat but zero odor.

Price at time of publication: $12

Product Details:

Type: Roll-on
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Chlorohydrate
Fragrance: Fresh

Health / Jessica Juliao
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Health / Tamara Staples

4.8

Secret Antiperspirant Deodorant with Pure Essential Oils

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

3.9/5
Transfer Resistance

4/5
Overall Value

5/5

Why We Like It

The scent, while powered by essentials, is pleasant and helps mask odors.

It’s Worth Noting

Those with sensitive skin may want to be cautious of deodorants with essential oils.

With 48-hour protection from sweat and odors, this was an easy pick for the best antiperspirant. We put it to the test with a brisk 15-minute walk and 24 hours of wear and found the claims held true. After the workout, our armpits still smelled pleasantly of the essential oils in this deodorant, but some moisture was detectable. While scent is a key factor when choosing a deodorant, essential oils aren’t for everyone. “Essential oils offer a nice feel and long-lasting scent, but people with sensitive skin should be cautious of potential irritation,” says Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Philadelphia.

Price at time of publication: $10

Product Details:

Type: Balm stick
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly (15%)
Fragrance: Coconut and Mandarin

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Health / Tamara Staples

4.4

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

4/5
Overall Value

4.5/5

Why We Like It

It successfully neutralizes odors for 24 hours and has a pleasant texture.

It’s Worth Noting

The masculine scent may not appeal to everyone, and it leaves some transfer on clothing.

For odor protection, a deodorant is what you’re looking for. We loved the Jack Black deodorant's scent, but it's important to note that it leans on the masculine side but would please anyone who gravitates toward fresh and woodsy fragrances.

Though the fragrance doesn’t linger, the odor protection does. We didn't smell any sweat after 24 hours, even after our editor spent a hectic day on the subway. Our armpits smelled like nothing, which is better than sweat.

Price at time of publication: $20

Product Details:

Type: Solid Stick
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex (20%)
Fragrance: Fresh Citrus and Mint

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Health / Tamara Staples

4.8

DERMAdoctor Total Nonscents Ultra Gentle Antiperspirant

Dermstore

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4/5

Why We Like It

The formula is cruelty-free, unscented, and won't leave marks on your clothes.

It’s Worth Noting

It’s pricier than competitor antiperspirants.

If you’re looking for an antiperspirant that won’t transfer or leave behind any residue, this one by DERMAdoctor will get the job done. It applies effortlessly and doesn’t stain clothing, solving common complaints of stick deodorant users.

The active ingredient also earns the approval of a dermatologist we spoke to. “Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Glycine Complex provides longer lasting antiperspirant action than typical aluminum chloride containing antiperspirants,” explains Dr. Portela. “As a bonus, it’s also great for sensitive skin.”

In terms of efficacy, scent, and transfer resistance, this deodorant does the job well. The editor that tested this product wasn't a huge fan of the roll-on applicator. While the ability to swipe and go is a plus for some, it’s not for everyone.

Price at time of publication: $24

Product Details:

Type: Roll-On
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Glycine Complex (11.25%)
Fragrance: Fragrance-Free

Health / Jessica Juliao
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Health / Tamara Staples

4.3

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

2/5
Transfer Resistance

4/5
Overall Value

5/5

Why We Like It

It’s an affordable option that’s easy to find and performs nicely.

It’s Worth Noting

The scent can be overbearing to some.

Degree is a big name in the deodorant market, but even so, we were surprised to find that this deodorant for men doesn’t stain clothes, gives strong protection, and wears comfortably. It doesn’t leave behind white residue on dark clothing or cause light fabrics to turn yellow over time.

This one dries down instantly for those who don’t want to wait for roll-on deodorants to dry. This deodorant made our list because of the formula’s effectiveness and long-wearing scent.

Price at time of publication: $16

Product Details:

Type: Stick
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate (9.6%)
Fragrance: Clean

Health / Jessica Juliao
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Health / Tamara Staples

4.7

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4.5/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

4.5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4.5/5

Why We Like It

The clinical strength formula can reduce sweating for up to seven days.

It’s Worth Noting

Depending on how quickly you go through the wipes, this may not be a good value.

Sometimes a stick deodorant just won’t cut it. For those who sweat excessively, Dr. Saedi recommends these antiperspirant wipes. “This is a great over-the-counter option for people who have hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating,” she says. “It contains aluminum chloride.”

We found that the wipes didn’t do a ton for the smell but did reduce sweat. We noticed a very slight musty smell after 24 hours, but we stayed dry the entire time too.

To get the most out of these wipes, Dr. Saedi recommends applying them on dry skin at night and using stick deodorant during the day for odor protection. These wipes go on wet but dry quickly and don’t transfer to clothing.

Price at time of publication: $19

Product Details:

Type: Wipes
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Chloride (14%)
Fragrance: Unscented

Health / Jessica Juliao
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Health / Tamara Staples

4.8

Degree Advanced Antiperspirant Deodorant

Walmart

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Why We Like It

It’s a budget-friendly pick that offers long-lasting protection from sweat and odors.

It’s Worth Noting

The scent is very strong.

This popular Degree deodorant offers long-lasting sweat and odor protection. Not only were we stink-free, but our underarms stayed dry the entire time, too.

The clean scent reminded us of fresh laundry but it could come off quite strong. After 24 hours of wear, our we could still smell the product without body odor, so all signs point to an effective deodorant.

Price at time of publication: $16

Product Details:

Type: Balm
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate (16%)
Fragrance: Clean

Health / Jessica Juliao
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Health / Tamara Staples

4.7

Ulta

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Why We Like It

The roll-on formula goes on clear and smooth, and it didn’t transfer to clothing.

It’s Worth Noting

The scent is very light, which is a plus for those with sensitivity to fragrances, but may not be strong enough to protect against odors.

Tired of white or yellow marks on your clothing? A deodorant that goes on clear is the answer, and this one by Clinique rolls on seamlessly. Deodorant with a roller ball isn’t for everyone, but we appreciated how it applied without any transfer.

A dermatologist we spoke to also approved of the formula. “It’s formulated without many preservatives that can lead to allergic reactions in some individuals,” says Dr. Portela. He also noted that the key ingredient maintains its effectiveness with less irritation than others.

This deodorant may not be the best for intense sweating, however, because we did start to sweat again before our 24-hour test was complete.

Price at time of publication: $19

Product Details:

Type: Roll-On
Key Ingredient: Myristalkonium Chloride
Fragrance: Unscented

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4.5

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4/5
Scent

4/5
Texture

4/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

5/5

Why We Like It

It’s very effective at reducing sweat, which explains why it’s made for athletes.

It’s Worth Noting

It leaves behind a small amount of residue on the skin, though it doesn’t transfer to clothing.

Your everyday deodorant might not be able to handle sweaty gym sessions and long evening runs, but this antiperspirant by Art of Sport sure can. After a treadmill workout, our armpits felt warm after speed walking, but they weren't damp or sweaty.

While this deodorant has a lot to like, we were confused by the scent. It didn’t have a strong eucalyptus scent like advertised, and whatever scent it did have quickly faded.

So, this is a solid pick if you’re looking for an antiperspirant that will stop sweat in its tracks, but maybe you’re not so picky about odors.

Price at time of publication: $14

Product Details:

Type: Solid Stick
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly (15.2%)
Fragrance: Cool Eucalyptus

Health / Jessica Juliao
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Health / Tamara Staples

4.7

Harry's Odor & Enhanced Sweat Control, Extra-Strength Antiperspirant

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4.5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4.5/5

Why We Like It

This antiperspirant smells great, blocks sweat, and applies clear—all at a fraction of the cost.

It’s Worth Noting

It can be difficult to fully remove in the shower.

Most people use deodorant daily, so it can get pretty expensive to replace frequently. This budget-friendly three-pack from Harry’s is just as effective as more expensive options at a lesser price. It applies clearly and smooth, and we liked how cool it felt on our skin.

In terms of its sweat-blocking abilities, this one’s a winner. Our editors noticed that our armpits were not nearly as sweaty as they usually are and didn't smell, so this product did what it set out to. We didn’t notice any intense odors at the end of the day and concluded that this affordable antiperspirant is long-lasting and smells great.

Price at time of publication: $17

Product Details:

Type: Stick
Key Ingredient: Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex Gly (20%)
Fragrance: Fig

4.8

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

5/5
Scent

5/5
Texture

5/5
Transfer Resistance

5/5
Overall Value

4/5

Why We Like It

Despite the cream formulation, it’s easy to rub in and doesn’t transfer.

It’s Worth Noting

The dispenser could take some getting used to.

Deodorants come in many different types, but it’s not every day that you see a cream antiperspirant. We found the dispenser unusual but were able to look past it since it had so much to offer in terms of effectiveness, ease of application, and transfer resistance.

After going for a run in warm and humid weather, our editor found this deodorant to be extremely effective. Our underarms felt perfectly dry after a run and a few minutes of jumping jacks. We found the slightly floral scent of the product overpowered any lingering body odor.

Price at time of publication: $26

Product Details:

Type: Cream
Key Ingredient: Life planktons
Fragrance: Floral

Health / Jessica Juliao
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4.5

Glossier

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Our Ratings

Efficacy

4.2/5
Scent

4.5/5
Texture

4.5/5
Transfer Resistance

4.5/5
Overall Value

4.4/5

We We Like It

It has a chic look and scent, while being effective.

It's Worth Noting

The creamy texture takes some getting used to when you first apply it.

If you want a beautiful deodorant on your bathroom vanity or gym bag, then Glossier's deodorant may be perfect. In testing, we liked that this one looked attractive and incredibly effective. Our editor had no discernable body odor after a core and cardio workout. And we found that we weren't smelly even after 24 hours of wear.

We loved the luxe fragrance, which was light citrus. Unlike other deodorants, the scent wasn't overly powerful or fake smelling. Another feature we appreciated was that this product is refillable. You only need to purchase the case ($4) once. The refills are $22, so this option is more expensive than a drugstore deodorant. However, we think it's worth the splurge because of the style and how well it works.

At first, we found the cream consistency to be slightly off-putting. But we noticed that the cream completely dried within a few minutes, and there was no transfer onto our dark clothing. This deodorant will likely become a favorite once you get used to the unique lotion-like consistency.

Price at time of publication: $22

Product Details:

Type: Cream
Key Ingredient: Coconut oil, magnesium hydroxide, potato starch
Fragrance: Orange Blossom Neroli (also comes in Sandstone, Glossier You, and Unscented)

Our Testing Process

To find the best options, our testers put 36 deodorants and antiperspirants to the test. With the oversight of Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital's Department of Dermatology in New York City, testers were advised to do the following:

Apply the deodorant or antiperspirant.
Engage in physical activity for at least 15-20 minutes.
Check pits for odors and moisture.
Without showering, assess the effectiveness after 24 hours of wear.
Rate the products based on their efficacy, application, scent, transfer resistance, and value.

We also interviewed other dermatologists for their expert advice, including:

Dustin Portela, DO, an Idaho-based dermatologist
Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Philadelphia

What to Know About Antiperspirants and Deodorants

Types

The main types of deodorants and antiperspirants include sticks, roll-ons, gels, creams, and wipes. Less common options also include sprays and pastes. Fortunately, the best type mostly comes down to personal preference.

“The type of deodorant is less important than when and how you apply it,” Dr. Saedi says. “Antiperspirants are best applied at night when we are less likely to sweat so that they have time to fully absorb and form an effective barrier to block your sweat.”

Dr. Portela generally recommends stick or roll-on applications over spray deodorants, however. These tend to be more effective at blocking sweat glands, he says.

Key Ingredients

Deodorants use a variety of ingredients to mask odors with various scents, but antiperspirants usually share a common ingredient—aluminum. Aluminum-based antiperspirants work by blocking the sweat glands, which prevents moisture from causing discomfort and odors.

Dr. Portela usually recommends clinical-strength antiperspirants as they’re less likely to cause irritation for those with sensitive skin. He also recommends variations of aluminum like Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex instead of traditional Aluminum Chloride, which can be irritating over time.

Ingredients to Avoid

There is some controversy surrounding the safety of aluminum-based deodorants and antiperspirants, but the dermatologists we spoke to were in favor of them. “There isn’t data to back up the claims of health risk associated with aluminum-based antiperspirants,” explains Dr. Portela. He says that sensitivity to ingredients is based on the individual, so avoiding certain ingredients is a personal matter. Those with sensitive skin usually benefit from avoiding added fragrances, however.

More Antiperspirants and Deodorants to Consider

Degree Men Clinical Strength Deodorant Antiperspirant Sport for Profuse Sweating: This antiperspirant leaves underarms dry and odor-free but does leave behind white residue on the skin. While our tester gave high marks on the product’s effectiveness at curbing sweat and smells, the texture did cause some slight discomfort.

Tom's Antiperspirant Lavender: This Tom’s of Maine antiperspirant is made with simple and naturally derived ingredients, so it’s a popular choice among health-conscious deodorant users. It performs well in terms of odor and wetness protection, but our tester couldn’t get past the sticky texture and transfer to clothing.

Perspirex Clinical Strength: For more severe cases of sweating, this clinical strength gel-based antiperspirant claims to offer superior protection. Our tester appreciated the transfer resistance but ultimately couldn’t recommend this option due to its poor odor protection and tacky texture.

Your Questions, Answered

What makes an antiperspirant or deodorant clinical strength?

When a regular deodorant isn’t enough, you may need to enlist the help of a clinical-strength antiperspirant. What sets a clinical strength deodorant apart from other options is usually the concentration of its active ingredients, which directly impacts its strength and efficacy in more severe cases of perspiration.

“Clinical strength deodorants are great for people who struggle with hyperhidrosis or profuse sweating,” Dr. Saedi explains. “This label typically indicates a stronger antiperspirant with higher percentages of aluminum salts, the active ingredient that slows or stops sweating.”

Which is better, antiperspirant or deodorant?

Antiperspirant and deodorant are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. An antiperspirant can be a deodorant, but a deodorant isn’t always an antiperspirant. This is because “deodorant is designed to mask the odor, and antiperspirant creates a barrier to prevent or stop sweat from forming,” according to Dr. Saedi.

The moisture from sweating can become uncomfortable or lead to odors, so many people want to prevent damp underarms in the first place. “Although a deodorant may help you smell better, it doesn’t contain any ingredients that help to reduce sweating in the first place,” says Dr. Portela. “An antiperspirant contains ingredients that can reduce sweating, typically by temporarily blocking the sweat glands so that sweat can't be excreted onto the skin.”

How much should I expect to pay for an antiperspirant or deodorant?

Budget-friendly options exist between $5 and $9, and pricier options range from $19 to $24. However, most deodorants and antiperspirants lean towards the more affordable end and hover around $7 to $10.

Who We Are

Lacey Muinos is a health and skin care writer. She is an avid skin health researcher and has developed a complex understanding of skin issues from interviewing medical experts like board-certified dermatologists.