Our pick of the best deodorants

Keeping us cool and calm when we’re too warm, sweating helps us regulate our body temperature. Excessive sweating and body odour can damage confidence and self-esteem, however. That’s why we’ve rounded up the very best deodorants to suit every need – from the best natural deodorants to the best heavy-duty antiperspirants and plastic-free alternatives.

Do I need deodorant or antiperspirant?

When shopping for deodorant, it’s important to keep in mind that the active ingredients in antiperspirants and deodorants differ. This means they do slightly different jobs. Deodorants use perfume to mask the smell of body odour, as well as alcohol (or another antibacterial agent) to kill bacteria. In contrast, antiperspirants typically contain aluminium chlorohydrate, which temporarily plugs pores, preventing sweating from occurring in the first place. If excessive sweating is a problem, antiperspirants (particularly the roll-on formulas) tend to be longer-lasting and more effective. If you’re looking for something to keep you smelling and feeling fresh throughout the day and you’re not worried about sweat patches, a deodorant will do.

For more info on how to prevent body odour and excessive sweating, read Liz’s top tips for smelling good all day.

Should I worry about parabens or aluminium?

It’s becoming increasingly trendy to market deodorants as ‘paraben’ and ‘aluminium-free’. While effective marketing strategies (both have been incorrectly linked with increased breast cancer risk), there is no cause for concern in either case. For more information about parabens, be sure to read our tell-all article. In the case of aluminium, the EU Scientific Committee for Consumer

Safety continues to deem aluminium chlorohydrate a safe, effective and non-invasive solution to excessive sweating. It’s recommended for prescription by the NHS and there’s no convincing evidence to suggest that it increases breast cancer risk.

The best deodorants for women:

Tried and trusted by the Wellbeing Team, we share our favourite natural deodorants, heavy-duty antiperspirants and everything in between…

1. Nuud Carefree Deodorant 

This cream deodorant ticks a lot of eco-friendly boxes: the pretty pink tube is biodegradable and the team at Nuud are committed to CO2-neutral distribution. Luckily, the product is excellent too. Rich in antibacterial micro-silver, it keeps underarms odour free for 3-7 days and isn’t affected by showering.

£12.94, amazon.com 

2. Kiehls Superbly Efficient Antiperspirant and Deodorant Cream

A multipurpose formula that combines sweat-blocking aluminium chlorohydrate with fragrant orange, lemon and linseed extracts. It leaves skin feeling conditioned and soothed as well as providing long-term protection from body odour. 

£15.30, amazon.com

3. Perspirex Strong Antiperspirant Roll-On

For heavy-duty protection, this high-strength formula has been clinically proven to provide protection against severe perspiration for up to 5 days. Best applied at night.

£8, amazon.com

4. Finisterre Last Long Original Socks

These naturally antibacterial, wool socks are made in Britain and will help to keep feet smelling as sweet as they look.

£12, finisterre.com

5. Salt of the Earth Natural Deodorant

This natural rock crystal contains ammonium alum. Simply wet the rock crystal and rub over the skin. This natural deodorant is economical and long-lasting and has the benefit of saving on plastic packaging in the long run. 

£4.89, amazon.com