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Stick deodorants are a tried and true formula for fighting off odor, but a spray deodorant could be an even better option for those with sensitive skin. The gentle mist and lack of friction are great for preventing irritation, and some formulas can even be used head to toe.
I spoke to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology, to find out which spray deodorants are best, along with tips on how to choose one of your own. For the full scoop, keep reading below.
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Our list includes dermatologist-approved recommendations, and bestselling formulas from some of NBC Selected’s favorite and most trusted brands. I’ve also included both spray deodorants, for odor prevention, and spray antiperspirants, which contain aluminum salts that help to block sweat.
Garshick suggests this deodorant for both sweat and odor protection, since it creates a micro-barrier over the skin that helps results last longer. It has a non-sticky finish, and is formulated to release fragrance every time you move, according to the brand. The spray dries down quickly, and lasts for up to 72 hours.
I’ve always been prone to sweating, especially in the summertime, and Secret’s Clinical line is my go-to deodorant for its effective sweat-blocking and odor prevention. This spray version is formulated to address three major causes of sweat: stress, heat and activity, according to the brand. The lightweight formula includes aluminum salts to block sweat, and dries down to an invisible finish. The spray is also available in a stress response version, which is designed to specifically combat heavy, stress-based sweating.
This option is great for sensitive skin, since it includes hydrating glycerin and moisturizers that make it gentle on the skin, says Garshick. It’s also aluminum-free, which makes for less irritation, and provides up to 48 hours of protection, according to the brand. Garshick also likes that it dries and absorbs into the skin quickly.
Native makes one of our favorite natural deodorants, and this spray formula is made without aluminum or parabens, making it great for sensitive skin. It includes niacinamide to keep skin soothed, and dries down in seconds, according to the brand. It also leaves no residue or white marks, and lasts for up to 72 hours.
Certain Dri’s antiperspirants are known for their strong formulas, which is why Garshick recommends this spray for heavy sweaters in particular. It’s formulated with clinical-strength aluminum salts to help reduce excessive sweating, and can even help to treat hyperhidrosis (which is constant heavy, excessive sweating), according to the brand.
Lume’s Sweat Control spray comes recommended by Garshick in our guide to whole body deodorants. It has aluminum salts to help block sweat, along with tapioca starch and mandelic acid to keep the formula gentle for areas all over the body, according to the brand. It controls sweat and odor for up to 72 hours, and is available in four scents.
This aluminum-free formula from Secret can be used on your entire body, including the underarms, feet, underboobs and more. It’s also made for heavy-duty odor control — it lasts for up to 72 hours in heat up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the brand. The spray’s finish is invisible and has a strong fragrance, and the mist is also safe for sensitive skin types.
I asked dermatologists for guidance on how to choose a spray deodorant based on the needs they address and the areas of the body they cover. I also used their advice when choosing top-rated picks from trusted brands and recommendations from NBC Selected editors.
As you shop for a spray deodorant, keep in mind whether you need a deodorant or antiperspirant, along with the sensitivity levels of your skin.
Whether you choose a deodorant or antiperspirant will depend on your needs. While deodorants help conceal the odors caused by sweat, they don’t stop the sweat itself. “For someone who is primarily concerned with odor, a deodorant may be sufficient, but for those experiencing excessive sweating, an antiperspirant is going to help reduce sweat,” says Garshick.
