Body odor and sweat are inevitable, no matter the season. Sure, you might reach for your favorite deodorant stick or spray to alleviate this common concern, but there's been an emerging trend in the body care world to mask unwanted moisture and smells ... in more than just your armpits.
Whole body deodorants have been popping up everywhere from major brands, and you guessed it, you can use it (almost) anywhere you sweat. So, whether you're already on-board or scratching your head about these types of products, we tapped board-certified dermatologists to further explain what the trendy skin care product is and if it's actually worth it.
What is whole body deodorant? | What ingredients should you look for in whole body deodorants? | Who should use whole body deodorant | Expert-approved whole body deodorant | More whole body deodorant to shop | Meet our experts | How we chose
What is whole body deodorant?
You might have seen whole body deodorants come in the familiar stick form, as well as creams and sprays. But what exactly are they? Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy explains that whole body deodorants are body products that contain ingredients that help reduce odor-causing bacteria and may help absorb moisture. "They generally combine bacteria-reducing antibacterial agents to reduce odor with moisture-absorbing ingredients to decrease wetness and may contain a masking fragrance," says Jeffy.
They can be used anywhere on the body but generally, she says the product just needs to be applied where you are bothered by odor or sweat.
What ingredients should you look for in whole body deodorants?
When selecting a whole body deodorant, Jeffy tells us a good option will contain familiar skin care ingredients that are popular in reducing bacteria, such as mandelic acid, tea tree oil, peppermint oil and eucalyptus oils. Other star ingredients the dermatologists suggest looking out for are cornstarch, zinc and baking soda, which can help absorb moisture and odors.
Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jessie Cheung emphasizes that "a good full body deodorant should differ from a perfume, not merely masking odor, but by supporting non-stinky bacteria."
Who should use whole body deodorant?
Dermatologists say anyone who is looking to reduce body moisture and odors can use whole body deodorants. But there are a few things to keep in mind before trying. “Avoid a full body deodorant if you have sensitive skin. Otherwise, it should be safe to apply to most skin surfaces, but avoid the genitals,” says Cheung. “If your issue is more from excessive sweating, there are prescriptions and other treatments that are more effective than a deodorant.”
Most brands note the best place to use whole body deodorants can be under your breasts, inner thighs, feet and other external private areas. If you're looking to give it a try, we rounded up expert and editor-approved picks below.
Best whole body deodorants, according to experts and editors
Dove Whole Body Deo Invisible Cream
- Dries quickly
- Scent isn't overwhelming
- Product comes out quick
Size: 2.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Vitamins B3 and E | Scent? Yes; coconut and vanilla | Good for sensitive skin? Yes
Dr. Jeffy likes this pick from Dove, which also comes in stick form. It's formulated with lactic acid to help balance the skin's pH levels, as well as glycerin, vitamins B3 and E to provide soothing moisture, says the brand. Dove also notes that this aluminum-free product has up to 72 hours of moisture protection and can be used on toes, thighs and armpits.
Secret Whole Body Deodorant
- Don't have to reapply often
- Scent isn't overwhelming
- Only effective in some areas
Size: 3.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Doesn't have any specific callouts, but is free of aluminum, parabens and other irritants | Scent? Yes; peach and vanilla blossom | Good for sensitive skin? Yes
Dr. Cheung says this option from secret comes in a convenient spray formulation with non-irritating ingredients. Providing 72 hours of freshness, the brand says you can spray this on a variety of areas, including tackling that dreaded under-boob sweat. Plus, Secret notes that it won't leave a sticky residue and will go on clear.
Native Whole Body Deodorant Spray
- Truly lasts up to 48 hours
- Spray is ineffective at times
- Scent doesn't match label
Size: 3.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Doesn’t have any specific callouts, but is free of aluminum, parabens and other irritants | Scent? Yes; four scent options available | Good for sensitive skin? Yes
Editorial assistant Madison San Miguel says she tends to sweat more due to a medical condition, and this product from Native has helped her feel more confident.
"I love using this all over and with my current deodorant to give myself peace of mind during really hot, sweaty days. I specifically love this coconut and vanilla scent because it pairs well with their body wash and my vanilla-based fragrances. I love that it lasts and is easy to mist on!" says San Miguel.
More whole body deodorants to shop
Arm & Hammer Invisible Body Powder Spray
- Lightweight; applies clear
- Absorbs sweat, says brand
- Contain alumininum
Size: 7 oz. | Key Ingredients: Glycerin, tapioca starch | Scent? Doesn't specify | Good for sensitive skin? No good for irritated skin
According to the brand, the ingredient list contains aluminum, so it can actually prevent sweating (though Cheung noted above that aluminum can irritate sensitive areas). However, the brand notes that this full body spray can effectively block odors, as well as moisture.
"I’ve tried other brands of spray powder and this is the best! I use to absorb sweat under breasts, groin, under arms and skin folds and it works amazingly well," wrote one Amazon reviewer.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Whole Body Invisible Deodorant Stick
- Scent isn't overwhelming
- Travel-friendly
- Isn't as long-lasting
- Have to reapply often
Size: 2.6 oz. | Key Ingredients: Shea butter | Scent? Yes; coconut and hibiscus | Good for sensitive skin? Doesn’t specifically say
This full-body deodorant not only can help absorb sweat and odors, but also the brand says it can help with friction. According to the brand, this product is made for melanin-rich skin, so you can expect it to glide on clear. Reviewers also say they like the dry-to-touch and fresh feel, although they say you'll need to reapply throughout the day.
Ban Private Parts Deodorizing Lotion
- Cream-to-powder formula
- Soothing ingredients
- Some note an unpleasant smell
Size: 1.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Tapioca starch, calendula, aloe vera | Scent? Yes; light citrus | Good for sensitive skin? Yes
According to the brand, this body deodorant is specifically formulated to be gentle enough "for the bits." It contains tapioca starch to help absorb moisture, without causing irritation, says the brand.
"I used this on my chest and between my thighs to offset gross sweat in a very humid climate. Usually even when I shower twice a day, I sweat pretty easily and hate the smell. Definitely recommend! Has a light citrus scent that blended in with my natural body scent really well," wrote one Amazon reviewer.
First Aid Beauty Whole Body Deodorant Cream
- Scent isn't overwhelming
- A little goes a long way
- Ineffective on the armpits
Size: 3.0 oz. | Key Ingredients: Nicinamide, glycolic acid | Scent? Yes; citrus and fruits | Good for sensitive skin? Doesn't explicitly say
First Aid Beauty is a Shop TODAY Beauty Awards-winning brand, so we were excited to see that the company offers a whole body deodorant product. According to the brand, this cream contains AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid to help minimize odors. They also note that the soothing ingredients such as niacinamide and glycerin can soothe the skin, without feeling greasy.
Lume Whole Body Deodorant
- Dries well
- Reviewers felt fresh and clean
- Some note an unpleasant scent
Size: 2.2 oz. | Key Ingredients: Doesn't call any out, however is made with vegan ingredients | Scent? No | Good for sensitive skin? Doesn’t explicitly say
This whole body deodorant stick contains mandelic acid to help "optimize" pH levels in several areas of the body, which can help control unwanted odor says the brand. And that's not all, Lume says the formula can even target hyperpigmentation and reduce skin redness.
Shoppers love it, too. It has nearly 17,000 five-star ratings on Amazon where reviewers say it's helped control the smell of "under-boob" and "feet" sweat. Right now, you can only grab a double pack on Amazon but if you want to try a single stick, the retailer's website is in full stock.
Kiehl's Over & Under Cream-To-Powder Deodorant
- Has a refreshing scent
- Doesn't leave any residue
- Has a sticky consistency
Size: 2.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: Glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid blend | Scent? Doesn't specify | Good for sensitive skin? Yes
Containing a blend of AHAs, this "cream-to-powder" product from Kiehl's can help you stay fresh and odor-free for up to 96 hours, says the brand. Reviewers note that the lightweight and powdery finish works well when it comes to chafing, too.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Brooke Jeffy, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of youth skincare brand BTWN in Scottsdale, Arizona.
- Dr. Jessie Cheung, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, treating patients at her own practice, Cheung Aesthetics & Wellness in Chicago and New York.
How we chose
We selected the best whole body deodorants based on insights and recommendations from board-certified dermatologists. Other approved picks were sourced from Shop TODAY editors and staffers, and verified shopper reviews. We picked these options based on key ingredients recommended by our experts, our experience with the products and brands, reviews and brand reputation.
