Deodorant for men - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
Whether you're working out or just getting through the day, sweat can leave you with body odor that's hard to ignore. Men tend to sweat more than women, so it's particularly important to find the right deodorant to keep you smelling fresh all day.
But with so many men's deodorants on the market, finding the best option can be difficult. You have to figure out what formula, scent, lasting power, and other features work best for your lifestyle. Sorting through all the options can be frustrating.
At Real Indian, we can help take the frustration out of shopping. We research the products inside and out, so we are able to pass all the key data to you. That means you'll have all the information you need to make educated purchasing decisions without wasting your valuable time.
Looking for a new deodorant for men and women? Our top recommendations are in the product list above. If you are interested in general information about deodorants for men, keep reading our buying guide.
How does Deodorant for Men Work?
If you start to smell when you sweat, blame the bacteria that live on the skin of your armpits. When you sweat, bacteria feed on the fats and proteins in your perspiration, and that process creates an odor that's similar to the smell of onions, or what most of us think of as B.O.
Men's deodorant contains ingredients that help control bacteria so they don't produce a noticeable odor.
Some formulas make underarm skin an unsuitable environment for bacteria, while others stop your sweat glands from producing sweat, so there's nothing for bacteria to feed on.
Types of Deodorants for Men
There are several different types of deodorants for men and women, all of which can be effective. Choosing one is mostly a matter of personal preference, although it is important to select one that is easy to use and applies an even layer of product.
- Rolled :
Roll-on deodorant is a liquid formula that is applied to the skin using a roller-ball applicator.
- Gel :
Gel deodorant has a thick, jelly-like consistency and is pushed up through holes in the applicator tip.
- Spray :
Aerosol deodorant is a liquid formula that comes in a spray can.
- Powder :
If you sweat a lot, deodorant powders are a good option.
Characteristics of the Deodorant for Men to take into Account
- Duration
For many men, the most important feature of a deodorant is the duration of its odor protection. Some deodorants claim to work for 24 to 48 hours. These claims are often exaggerated, but it's probably best to choose one of these formulas. One app is probably all you need to get through 12-14 hours of work or school.
- Residue
Heavy men's deodorant formulas, like sticks and powders, can sometimes leave a residue that can stain clothes. These formulas are often white, so they're especially a problem if you're wearing a dark-colored shirt. To protect your clothes, opt for clear formulas that won't stain.
- Antiperspirant
Deodorants and antiperspirants are not necessarily the same thing, although some products are both. Antiperspirants, a subset of deodorants, typically use an aluminum compound to block sweat glands under the arms and prevent perspiration. Since men sweat more than women, it's a good idea to choose a product that offers odor and wetness protection.
Most antiperspirants contain between 10% and 15% aluminum. If you have a severe sweating problem, you may want to choose a clinical strength antiperspirant, which contains up to 25% aluminum, for the strongest odor and wetness protection. It's important to note that clinical strength formulas should be applied at night, not in the morning like a traditional deodorant would.
- Smell
Most deodorants have some sort of scent to increase their odor-fighting power. Men deodorants typically have fresh, clean notes or spicy, musky notes, so you can choose the option that best suits your personal preference. Some men's cologne brands make deodorants with matching scents, so you don't have to worry about the two scents competing or clashing.
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to opt for a fragrance-free deodorant because the chemicals used to create the scent can be irritating to your skin.
Tips
- Always apply deodorant to dry skin for the most effective odor protection.
- Wear shirts that hang loosely under your arms so air can circulate through your armpits and you'll be less likely to sweat. A looser fit also helps prevent deodorant from leaving a residue on your clothes.
- Even if you're not using a clinical-strength antiperspirant, it's a good idea to apply deodorant at night. You sweat a little while you sleep, which helps to activate the product and allows it to penetrate the skin for more effective protection.
- If you don't feel like your deodorant offers enough protection, use clean fingers to rub it into your skin after applying it.
FAQ
Que. Are men's Antiperspirant Deodorants Safe?
Ans. Antiperspirant deodorants often contain aluminum chlorohydrate, which some people believe is linked to certain types of cancer and other health problems. Aluminum is necessary to block the sweat glands in the armpits to prevent perspiration, but it can be absorbed by the body. If you're concerned about possible health risks, look for a product that contains aluminum salts instead of aluminum chlorohydrate. The salts can block the sweat glands, but they are not absorbed by the body.
Que. What type of Deodorant for Men and Women is best for Sensitive Skin?
Ans. Many men assume that natural deodorants are the way to go if they have sensitive skin or allergies, but those formulas often contain essential oils that can also irritate the skin. Instead, look for a hypoallergenic roll-on that doesn't contain aluminum chlorohydrate. This type of light formula is usually less irritating. It's also a good idea to choose a fragrance-free option because synthetic fragrances can also cause skin irritation.
Que. How often should I reapply Men's Deodorant?
Ans. A good deodorant should provide enough protection to get you through an entire day with just one application. If you find that you have to reapply deodorant two or more times a day, it's time to look for a new deodorant.