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16 Effective Deodorants That Work Without Irritating Your Sensitive Skin
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We hope you love our recommendations! While every product is independently chosen by our editors, BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. You can read more about how our affiliate partnerships work in our Editorial Standards & Ethics Guide. From Almay to Vanicream, we found the best sticks, roll-ons, wipes, and sprays that won't irritate your underarms. Finding a deodorant that's both suitable for sensitive skin and *actually* works can seem impossible. Fortunately, several brands have developed formulas specifically for irritable skin, and some even act as an antiperspirant! While compiling this list of sensitive-skin-friendly options, we avoided any formulas with baking soda, as many reviewers say this ingredient is a common cause of intense flare ups and rashes. When it comes to fragrance and aluminum/antiperspirant ingredients, everyone's skin reacts differently, so we've clearly indicated if the formula includes either. And of course, it's always best to consult a dermatologist before using new products for sensitive skin. Vanicream's Anti-Perspirant Deodorant is a solid all-arounder for anyone looking for a no-frills, super-gentle formula. It contains zero fragrance or artificial dyes, and it's even available in an aluminum-free formula if you prefer just a deodorant. Vanicream is a dermatologist-favorite brand, and this formula has impressed more than 10,000 Amazon customers so far. Antiperspirant: Available with and without aluminum Promising review: "I have very sensitive skin and struggle with most deodorants, causing itching, redness, or breakouts. Vanicream Anti-Perspirant Deodorant for Sensitive Skin has been a total game changer for me. First, it truly lives up to its unscented claim. There’s no masking fragrance and no weird chemical smell. If you’re sensitive to scents or just prefer fragrance-free products, this is perfect. Most importantly, it actually works. I get reliable 24-hour protection, even on busy or stressful days. It keeps sweat under control without feeling heavy or sticky. The formula goes on smoothly, dries fairly quickly, and doesn’t leave noticeable residue on my clothes. What really sets this apart is that it’s gentle. No burning after shaving, no rash, and no irritation — which I’ve experienced with so many 'clinical strength' products in the past. It’s effective without being harsh. If you have sensitive skin and need a strong but gentle antiperspirant, I highly recommend giving this one a try. I’ll definitely be repurchasing!" —Jay K. Get it from Amazon for $11.25 (also available without aluminum). Nécessaire's The Deodorant might just be the deodorant for you if you've been looking for an aluminum-, baking soda-, and fragrance-free formula that can still provide up to 72 hours of odor protection. The mandelic acid is the secret to its bacteria-fighting power, and your underarms will get a dose of niacinamide and panthenol for a soothing dose of moisture. Plus — it's considered eczema-friendly by the National Eczema Association! Promising review: "This works so well and does not irritate my highly sensitive, eczema-prone skin. Only the unscented works without sensitivity, but it works well, through four-mile hikes and active work. I tried many, but this is best for my skin!" —thequeenymom Secret's Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant offers up to 72 hours of wetness and odor protection in a fragrance-free, super soft gel formula that glides on effortlessly. For best results, the brand recommends applying two clicks before bedtime, which can also help with night sweats! Promising review: "I have an inhaled fragrance allergy, and this has no fragrances. If there is any odor, it does not bother my own personal allergies. I can also say I live in very hot, humid, and sweaty Florida, and this keeps any underarm odor at bay, also seems to help with wet sweat marks for me." —J Dove's Aluminum-Free Deodorant is free of baking soda and alcohol, making it a perfect budget-friendly option for up to 48 hours of odor protection in a gentle, creamy stick formula. It does contain a light fragrance, but reviewers say it's mild and non-irritating. Promising review: "Loved this!!! I stay odor-free and am not wet under the arms. I wanted to give up aluminum, and this is PERFECT for that! Also very gentle on my sensitive skin." —CJ Campbell Dermadoctor Total Nonscents Ultra-Gentle Antiperspirant — as you can probably tell by the name, this formula has only the stuff you need with zero nonsense. There's no fragrance here, just Aluminum Zirconium Tetra Chlorohydrex Glycine, which is a gentler alternative to the aluminum used in most traditional over-the-counter deodorants. Promising review: "Dermadoctor antiperspirant is the only one that truly works for me. It keeps me dry, causes absolutely no irritation, and is perfect for my sensitive skin. I’ve tried countless products, and nothing comes close." —Aisha M. Dry Idea Gel Deodorant provides up to 72 hours of sweat protection in a clear gel that feels light on skin, dries quickly, and never leaves a residue on clothing. Plus, reviewers say this genuinely has no detectable scent! Promising review: "I have a really hard time finding deodorant that doesn’t irritate my skin until I tried this brand. For the longest time, I thought I was sensitive to the aluminum in antiperspirant, but it turns out I’m sensitive to the fragrance. Truly fragrance-free deodorant or antiperspirant is hard to find. This works well, stops sweat, and is actually completely unscented. I just put a really thin layer on, and that’s all I need, and I don’t smell by the end of the day. The gel is nice because it doesn’t get all over my clothes. It does take a second to dry, but I don’t ever find myself getting annoyed at it." —Kaylee Get it from Amazon for $4.99 (also available in a spray formula). Native Sensitive Deodorant is your best bet if you want a gentle formula, but still want a pleasant, noticeable scent. The aluminum-free stick is available in four fun fragrances like Coconut & Vanilla and Cotton & Lily, though an unscented version is also available. No matter which scent you choose, you'll get a dose of shea butter and coconut oil for softness and some tapioca starch to lightly mop up moisture. Fragrance: Scented and unscented formulas available. Promising review: "This is the BEST deodorant. I am ingredient-conscious and have tried plenty of 'simple' or 'clean' deodorants on the market. Many have given me a rash since I have sensitive skin, but this never has. I keep coming back to it. It works great, smells fantastic, and I only have to apply it sparingly. Truly the only deo I will order from now on, I love that Native has this sensitive version because it's perfect for people who get contact rashes!" —Tori Get it from Amazon for $13.69 (available in five scents). Mags Skin Natural Spray Body Deodorant uses magnesium to provide all-day odor prevention, and it boasts a National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Reviewers particularly love the spray formula since it requires no rubbing or patting after application — just spray and let it dry! Promising review: "I have struggled for so long to find a deodorant that wouldn't agitate my skin. I have tried everything out there, and no matter what type or what brand, my poor skin would just flare up! I was starting to lose hope until I came across Mags Skin! This deodorant has truly changed the quality of my life. Finally, I am no longer living with discomfort. I have found THE product that works for my sensitive skin AND prevents odor!" —Emily.4898 Sanex Dermo Sensitive Roll-On provides up to 48 hours of antiperspirant protection and a cooling sensation upon application, making it a perfect pick for those brutal summer days when just thinking about going outside makes you start to sweat. The roll-on formula is also lightly hydrating to help soothe sensitive underarms. Promising review: "I found this while on vacation in Spain and loved it — was thankful to find it here on Amazon. I have tried so many deodorants that don’t keep me dry, but this one did. Rolls on smoothly and protection lasts all day." —Heather M. Drunk Elephant's Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream is everything you love about a gentle deodorant combined with everything you love about a lightweight, soothing lotion. It contains a mix of mandelic acid and arrowroot to prevent odor-causing bacteria and mop up sweat, while the shea butter helps protect your skin's barrier. Promising review: "I have very sensitive skin — ALL MY LIFE I HAVE GOTTEN rashes under my armpit using other deodorants. I have been using this product for over two years, and it is the BEST, I definitely recommend it. I use it in the mornings only, and it lasts all day. AMAZING." —Abellise Humble's Simply Unscented Deodorant is a perfect choice if you tend to get post-shaving irritation, as this was designed with that in mind! It's soothing enough to use shortly after shaving thanks to its corn starch-based formula with softening candelilla wax. Scented versions are available, though do note that they contain essential oils, so the unscented version might be your safest bet. Fragrance: Unscented and scented formulas available Promising review: "I have tried countless deodorants and most, especially those that contain baking soda, irritate my skin. This fabulous deodorant is unscented and lasts all day. The texture is smooth and silky (not pasty or liquidy). Highly recommend if you need a gentle deodorant stick." —Don S. Lume Acidified Deodorant Wipes for on-the-touchups that feel soothing and smell fresh, but not overwhelming. These use the power of mandelic acid to help block odor, and they're safe enough to use on your whole body. Prepare for these to become a new staple in your gym bag. Promising review: "Love these! They really work! I am sensitive in my armpits, and these do not irritate them at all. I have been using them for over a year now, and they never disappoint." —Azsny Get a pack of three 15-count pouches from Amazon for $15.99 (available in two scents). Vichy's 24-Hour Dry Touch Deodorant — this roll-on formula provides a full day of odor protection without leaving behind any sticky residue, so it truly lives up to the "dry touch" in its name. It also has a super light "fresh" fragrance, so it's perfect for mid-day touch-ups. Promising review: "For sensitive skin, this deodorant is pain-free. Unlike other sensitive skin/natural options, Vichy doesn’t stain my clothes with waxy dark stains. I live in Arizona, where the summer heat is a true test. Vichy gives me all-day protection. The best I’ve tried and I’ve tried them all." —R. Olson Almay Sensitive Skin Clear Gel Anti-Perspirant and Deodorant has rave reviews for providing actual sweat protection in a clear gel formula that never leaves behind a residue on clothing. It's completely fragrance-free, and reviewers with frequent irritation so their skin tolerates it perfectly. Promising review: "I am one of those people that easily become allergic to deodorants after a while, and I mean a bad reaction under my arms. Almay is the answer to this problem! It is easy to apply, A little bit goes a long way, it dries quickly, it lasts the whole day, and the best part, no allergic reaction." —M.Cruz Salt & Stone's Deodorant Gel comes in two reviewer-beloved scents (Bergamot & Hinoki and Santa & Vetiver) and features seaweed extracts to soothe skin, as well as hyaluronic acid for a dose of moisture. Your pits will smell and feel amazing once you glide this on. Promising review: "I love this product so much! There is no staining or transfer from the product to my clothes. As someone who works in food service, being able to put this on at the start of the day and still smell good at the end is wonderful!" —Emily J. Get it from Salt & Stone and Nordstrom for $20 (available in two scents). Prereq Reset Mode Deodorant — this one is specifically designed to be gentle enough for kids and teens, and even boasts a National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. You can spray this one on your pits, feet, chest, or anywhere else you need some odor protection. Fragrance: While it has no added artificial fragrance, it does have a light vanilla scent due to the inclusion of Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract and Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract. * *Psst* — These 37 Beauty Products Are All The Rage Right Now, In Case You Weren’t Aware * Helpful Products For People Who Think They Suck At Makeup * Beauty Products So Good, Reviewers Say They “Can’t Live Without” Them * Sensitive Skin–Friendly Beauty Products You’ll Be So Glad You Own * Korean Beauty Products You Probably Haven’t Heard Of Yet But Should Totally Try This Spring * Problem-Solving Beauty Products For Those Issues You Didn’t Even Know Had Legit Solutions * Beauty Products That'll Help With Upkeep Without Costing A Fortune * Beauty Products That Work So Well, Reviewers Called Them “Wizardry,” “Sorcery” Or Just Plain “Magic” Plus, cosmetic bags, concealers, waterproof mascaras, and finds from Sephora, Soko Glam, Ulta, and Walmart. BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way. Daniel Boan is a Shopping Editor who uses his passion for hitting "add to cart" (and his 8+ years in media) to curate the best products on the web — he's particularly passionate about finding the best beauty products, which probably stems from his days of working at Lush Cosmetics, where he learned about effective skincare ingredients while getting covered in bath bomb dust every day. The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.