Such a simple thing needn’t be complicated. While you can break it down in many ways, there are always a few things to keep in mind. This article is a primer on underarm malodour management - and you can be certain of this: the application of deodorant is always as straightforward as a swipe. But, before you do this, there are some considerations to be had in order to choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.
For those concerned with keeping sweat under control, we recommend an antiperspirant that works on the sweat glands, curbing perspiration. That said, many antiperspirants are also deodorants - products that mask the odour of the bacteria contained in sweat.
It would be disingenuous of us not to mention that we are not opposed to sweat(ing), which is part of a normal, healthy, and very natural integumentary system. Tackling the problem is a holistic consideration: our choice of clothing, diet, and our hygiene and grooming practices are all factors of note. Trimming underarm hair, a good bacteria-killing soap, and wearing comfortable and breathable material are not only fantastic steps towards resolution, but good lifestyle advice overall.
In this article, we've selected the best deodorants for men that'll keep you feeling fresh.
Best Antiperspirant: Clinique for Men Antiperspirant Deodorant Roll-On
Regardless of the occasion, wet patches aren't a good look - and so antiperspirants are the product for you. Clinique’s Antiperspirant contains Aluminium, a tried-and-true ingredient for avoiding wetness. It works by obstructing pores in the skin, preventing sweat from leaving the body. Its anhydrous property means that it absorbs moisture, which is useful for scorching hot days, or simply those who want to keep excesses under control. Its composition is intent upon simplicity, utilising ingredients to ease its application, effectively inhibiting the growth of odour-causing bacteria.
Best Unscented Deodorant: Menscience Advanced Deodorant
An unscented deodorant is the best option when you don't want any distractions, or conflicts with your other scented washes and fragrances. This Advanced Deodorant from Menscience plays well with other products. Unfragranced and aluminium free, it's ideal for sensitive skin types which are prone to reacting to certain ingredients. To combat odour, the product uses Microzeolites - microscopic minerals that absorb moisture and counteract odour-causing bacteria.
Tea Tree Extract is a welcome addition due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, assisting in the reduction of odour. Allantoin and Chamomile Extract calms and soothes, neutralising any irritations and preventing uncomfortable itching. We give bonus points to this product because it's non-staining, so you can wear your dress shirts with the confidence that they’ll be sweat - and stain - free.
Best Natural Deodorant: Baxter of California Deodorant
Baxter of California's Deodorant contains a high proportion of naturally-derived ingredients, and is aluminium and alcohol-free, making it a great option if your underarms are prone to the drying effects of alcohol, such as itchiness and flakiness. It takes a more gentle approach to prevent odour, utilising Comfrey, Yarrow and Chamomile Extract to provide relief throughout the day. Yarrow has healing and anti-inflammatory properties, ensuring the skin remains uncompromised with wear.
This is a popular product, and has been recognised by GQ and AskMen.com as a quality deodorant. Special mention to its smell too - despite its natural composition, it’s smell is first rate. With the sharp notes of citrus on a complex of musks, it pronounces freshness from the get-go.
Best Deodorant for Sensitive Skin: Speick Men Deo Stick
Speick’s approach to sensitive skin in this Deo Stick is one of less-is-more. Free of preservatives, colourings, and aluminium salts, it retains only the essential, and is kind to even the most sensitive of skins. What it is full of, to contrast, is natural ingredients (including naturally occurring fatty alcohols) and their trademark Speick extract.
This is a small and inconspicuous plant known as Valeriana celtica that grows in the high altitudes of Carinthia, Austria. Its scent is bold and piquant, and yet its effects are all at once calming and invigorating. It is used to great effect in this deodorant, drawing upon additional botanical ingredients such as sage and lavender for their remarkable soothing effects.
Best Smelling Deodorants: Geo F. Trumper Sandalwood & Eucris Deodorant Sticks
Mind you, Trumper has an array of many more deodorants that excel in the scent category. But, we can’t deny the popularity of their Sandalwood Deodorant, which takes the woody note and draws out its pleasant sweetness. It lingers all day and is designed to either go alone or complement the other sandalwood-scented products in the range.
Eucris, on the other hand, is a beloved favourite of those who adore a traditional aromatic elegance. It is the potent power of treemoss that gives Eucris its panache and radiance, sensibly ornamented with spices, sweet jasmine, and even cassis.
The main ingredient in these products are Glycol, which ensures a pleasant and easy to use experience. It has a smooth texture and feel and it keeps skin hydrated throughout wear, and thus is non-irritating and supremely comfortable.
People’s Choice Award: Tabac Original Deodorant Stick
This deodorant is arguably our most classic in the aroma department. Aluminium-free, it is long-lasting and effective, and is loved the world over. The classic smell of Tabac - a spice-laden medley of florals, woods, musk, and much more - it is masculine elegance personified. Clean and fresh, its scent exudes, imbuing the wearer with the confidence of smelling well. Even more, it is strong - its scent is powerful, perfect for those who like a little presence to their products and themselves. Gentlemen have used this product for decades, and is a testament to its effectiveness.