Sweating is a totally natural, normal, and important function its your bodys way of cooling itself down.
But that doesnt mean its always pleasant.
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Still, not all antiperspirants are created equal.
Some work better than others, and some are better for certain skin types.
After extensive research and hands-on evaluation, these are the antiperspirants we recommend.
It takes a minute to fully dry, but once it does, its nearly undetectable on the skin.
Still, I could notice it working.
I experienced less sweat while exercising when I used this antiperspirant compared to some others.
And while its not scented, its ability to block sweat also prevents odors.
Its also fragrance-free, which could be a plus for those with sensitive skin.
One thing to note, however, is that stronger isnt always better.
Apatch testis used to see if a new product might cause a negative reaction.
I liked that I didnt have to wait for it to dry like some others.
The scent leans more masculine it was similar to wearing mens cologne.
I noticed significantly less sweat and zero odor, even after spending hours in the heat.
I also enjoyed the Fresh Linen scent and the product’s smooth consistency.
I noticed less underarm sweat during and after exercise.
The thick consistency is similar to lotion, but I ended up really liking how it moisturized my underarms.
So, whats the catch?
Expect a little bit of residue on your clothes.
I was careful to avoid deodorant stains, but some white marks were inevitable.
Best Scent
There are multiple scents, such as Cool Citrus and Cedar, to choose from.
I tested the Clear Sky formula, which has notes of pear and vanilla.
Of all the antiperspirants I tested, this one had the best scent.
Its not fragrance-free, but I didnt have any issues with skin sensitivity.
I also didnt find the scent overpowering.
The scent was most noticeable immediately after I applied it, and it faded throughout the day.
An antiperspirant that reduces moisture is one thing a deodorant that prevents odors is another.
This antiperspirant provides maximum sweat control and odor protection for your underarms, Dr. Bowles says.
As for its performance, it certainly did its job.
I experienced a reduction in sweat while using it.
Best for Everyday Use
How often should you use antiperspirant?
Every day, said the dermatologists I spoke to.
The idea is to apply antiperspirant before you sweat, so you get ahead of excessive perspiration and odors.
This product is perfect for everyday use, Bowles says.
It offers the wetness protection of a prescription-strength product formulated to be gentle on the skin.
What I liked most about this product is how easy it is to apply.
While I didnt particularly struggle with any of the antiperspirants I tested, I ran into some unfamiliar territory.
This is a simple stick that looks, feels, and applies the way youre used to.
With a slightly feminine scent, it also smells great.
I sweat but I dont struggle with odors.
The aluminum-based formula reduced underarm moisture without unnecessary fragrances.
Unlike traditional stick antiperspirants, this one has a gel formula that I applied using the roll-on applicator.
It doesnt smell like anything, so I didnt even notice it was there.
Since its fragrance-free, its especially suitable for those with skin sensitivities.
I recommend this product to patients with sensitive skin, says Foad, adding that its hypoallergenic.
Best Wipes
I tested multiple antiperspirant wipes and found these Certain Dri wipes the most effective.
They reduced sweat and odors, and I liked how it went on invisible.
These arent fragrance-free, and the scent was quite strong, however.
If theres one antiperspirant brand that dermatologists name drop the most, its Certain Dri.
We tested and loved the roll-on from this brand, but the wipes are a good find, too.
Using them is straightforward simply swipe the wipe across your underarm.
I checked whether each product went on invisible, left behind residue, or transferred to clothes.
This obstructs the sweat ducts, reducing the amount of sweat excreted.
These compounds are also the most common active ingredients found in antiperspirants, she adds.
While aluminum-free formulas are an option, theyre less effective at reducing sweat, Huang says.
Clinical strength antiperspirants usually contain up to 20 percent active ingredients compared to 10 percent in regular formulas.
Not everyone needs a clinical strength antiperspirant, notes Foad.
In some people, stronger antiperspirants can cause rashes or skin irritation, she says.
This is why clinical strength is best reserved for those with excessive sweating.
And even clinical strength antiperspirants may be too weak for those with severe hyperhidrosis.
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For those without allergies or sensitivities, scented antiperspirants are optional.
If youre worried that unscented antiperspirants wont block odors, dont be.
TypeAntiperspirants take a variety of forms.
I found that stick and roll-on antiperspirants work best: They provide thorough and even coverage.
On the other hand, the portability of wipes when traveling or on the go cant be beat.
TextureEven among antiperspirant sticks, theres some variation when it comes to how it feels on your skin.
This depends on the formula whether its creamy, gel-like, powdery, etc.
Some are even classified as a lotion.
Gel-like formulas have the advantage of going on invisibly.
Gel formulas are clear.
Antiperspirant roll-on bottles often contain water-based formulas.
These feel wet when first applied, but once they dry down, you likely wont feel it.
Are Antiperspirants and Deodorants With Aluminum Safe to Use?
Antiperspirants can be deodorants, but deodorants arent antiperspirants.
Antiperspirants work by blocking your sweat glands.
This prevents sweat from reaching the skin, so you dont feel sweat under your arms.
Deodorants dont stop sweat, so you may feel moisture, but they can curb odors.
They often contain ingredients like fragrances that mask odors or prevent bacteria that cause odors with antibacterial agents.
Antiperspirants reduce sweat while deodorants reduce odor, but both can have a place in your personal hygiene routine.
An antiperspirant may only be necessary if you experience sweat but not odor.
Many people choose to use both to curb both sweat and odors.
Many antiperspirants are also deodorants, providing the benefits of both in one step.
Her professional interests include Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic and laser procedures, and immunodermatology.
