Why we love it: ICYMI (hyperhidrosis) is a medical term for excessive sweating, which Dr. Miller says is the perfect target for Certain Dri’s prescription-strength clinical antiperspirants. Aluminum chloride-based formula provides highly effective sweat protection for up to 72 hours. There is one thing to note. This unscented, clinical-strength antiperspirant works wonders at stopping sweat and odor-causing bacteria, but it can be irritating for those with sensitive skin.
FAQ
What is an antiperspirant?
“Traditional antiperspirants do not reduce sweating, but rather prevent sweat from reaching the skin’s surface,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Different types of aluminum compounds are used as active ingredients in antiperspirants to block sweat.
These include aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium, aluminum chloride, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex guli, etc., which serve a unified purpose. “All the aluminum ingredients in antiperspirant products work to control moisture by forming temporary plugs within the sweat glands,” cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson told Allure.
They work similarly, but with slightly different degrees of effectiveness. For example, aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrexguri is most commonly included in clinical-strength antiperspirants because it forms a more stable plug in sweat glands than other compounds, Dr. Tassaver says. Other aluminum compounds are still effective, but are considered less potent and are therefore more likely to be used in standard-strength products.
What is a deodorant?
Not all deodorants are antiperspirants, but most antiperspirants are deodorants. Deodorants are considered cosmetics because, as New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereen Idris previously explained, they contain antibacterial agents that inhibit the growth of microorganisms in the armpits.
However, sweat itself is not the cause of odor. “Odor occurs when bacteria comes into contact with the thicker, milky substance produced by the apocrine glands in our armpits and groin (which also includes our feet and butt),” she added. Dermatologists say daily bathing is important to prevent body odor, but deodorant can still be very helpful. Julie E. Russak, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, tells Allure, “It’s helpful to use deodorant in areas of skin-to-skin contact, such as under heavy breasts and stomach, to prevent skin maceration during humid weather or skin irritation from friction.”
Are aluminum deodorants safe?
The safety of aluminum as an antiperspirant ingredient has been questioned by clean beauty advocates and natural ingredient enthusiasts. Some believe that aluminum may contribute to the development of diseases such as breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, but there is not enough scientific evidence to support those claims.
“We rely on studies conducted on thousands of women to confirm the link between breast cancer and its culprits,” Sarah Kate, M.D., assistant professor of surgery and breast cancer specialists at Mount Sinai in New York City and a board-certified breast surgeon, told Allure. After all, no one has ever developed breast cancer from using antiperspirants.
Furthermore, the Alzheimer’s Association states that the link between aluminum and neurodegenerative diseases is a myth and that “research has not confirmed the role of aluminum in the cause of Alzheimer’s disease.” So, while there are benefits to choosing an aluminum-free or natural deodorant (especially for those whose skin is prone to irritation), for true odor-blocking and damp-control benefits, an aluminum-based antiperspirant is your best bet.
What is the most effective underarm antiperspirant?
The most effective antiperspirant for you will depend on how much you sweat and your personal skin concerns, says Dr. Tasaver. Finding the best active ingredients (and their concentrations) for sweat management may require some trial and error. Stronger actives like aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrexguri may be more likely to cause irritation because they “cause a more substantial blockage within the sweat ducts,” explains Dr. Tassabaa. He added that higher concentrations of active ingredients can also increase the risk of irritation. Next, you need to consider how well your armpits tolerate fragrances and other added ingredients. Finally, you should consider your preferred texture to make applying the product as enjoyable as possible.
Why do I still sweat even after using antiperspirant?
Good news: your hole probably isn’t doomed. You may not be using it at the right time. “Antiperspirants are most effective when used at bedtime, when your sweat glands are least active,” says Dr. Domash. She explains that excess moisture, whether it’s sweat or shower water, can dilute the product and make it less effective.
It’s also possible that the antiperspirant you choose isn’t strong enough, says Dr. Tassabaa. Look for formulas with higher clinical strength or higher concentrations of active ingredients. If the switch doesn’t work, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. We can help you find the treatment that’s right for you, including prescription-strength antiperspirants, oral medications, and Botox injections.
What is the best deodorant for hidradenitis suppurativa?
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a painful, inflammatory skin disease that causes boil-like sores in the sweat glands. Symptoms are exacerbated by excessive moisture and friction, so keeping the area dry with over-the-counter antiperspirants can help reduce symptoms and provide some relief, Dr. Tassaba says. Look for one with a gentle formula, made without fragrances or essential oils, says Dr. Donmash. “These (ingredients) can cause irritation and even allergic reactions, which can worsen hidradenitis suppurativa,” she explains. If you don’t see improvement, talk to your dermatologist about treatment options.
meet an expert
Erica Domash, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City Jason Miller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Freehold, New Jersey Michael Tassaver, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York and New Jersey
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We verify ingredients, scrutinize brand claims and, when appropriate, research peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing every product included in each review, we rely on experts in fields such as dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to help vet ingredients and formulations.
For our list of the best deodorants with antiperspirants, we considered each product’s performance across five major categories: product ingredients and effectiveness, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product experience. All products have been judged outstanding in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, in addition to special consideration by dermatologists. For more information about our reporting and testing process, please visit our complete review process and methodology page.
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