RS Recommends
The Best Spray Deodorant
These sprays offer a convenient and more hygienic alternative to swiping deodorant sticks
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How you apply your deodorant is really a matter of preference, but for those who don’t like the idea of swiping a stick or find it unhygienic, a number of grooming brands have released antiperspirant and deodorant sprays that offer all-day protection from odor and sweat.
Unlike traditional deodorant sticks, these deodorants come in tall cans, with a formula that is dispensed through a handy nozzle on the top (similar to how you would use hairspray). Aim the nozzle under the arms and spray liberally, making sure to cover the armpits. You’ll want to spray from a few inches away, so the product can be dispersed more evenly, rather than building up in one spot.
Deodorant sticks swipe back and forth along your armpits, which allow for decent distribution of the product, though the motion can often wipe bacteria back and forth along your skin too. Deodorants and antiperspirant sticks also retain a lot of gunk on their surfaces — say, body hair, dust and dirt. A deodorant spray avoids any contact with the skin, making it a cleaner and more hygienic option.
The best antiperspirant and deodorant sprays will start as a liquid but dry immediately upon contact with skin. And while classic deodorant sticks often leave white marks under your arms, these sprays dry clear. We’ve also found formulas that cut down on the stains that some antiperspirants leave behind when they mix with the oils and sweat from your body.
As their name suggests, the best antiperspirant deodorant sprays do double duty, helping to keep you dry and odor-free. You’ll be protected from excessive sweating and from bad B.O.
Our favorite sprays offer up to 48 hours of protection, and many come with fresh scents that keep you feeling confident, comfortable and stink-free. Toss one of these in your gym bag and toiletry kit, and stock up on these sprays for home as well. They’re a fast, effective and efficient way to stay dry all day long.
1. Degree Men Antiperspirant Deodorant Dry Spray
Degree’s Antiperspirant Deodorant Dry Spray offers 48 hours of protection against sweat and body odor, with a powerful formula that actively works to keep wetness away.
Degree says its “MotionSense technology” responds to movement; the more you move, the more fresh “microcapsules” are released to the surface of your skin. The capsules form an invisible barrier that wicks sweat away, keeping it off your clothes to prevent staining.
The deodorant spray goes on clear too, so you don’t have to worry about any white marks that you get from regular antiperspirant and deodorant sticks.
This packs gets you three cans.
PROS: All-day sweat-fighting technology makes this a great option for athletes and people on the go.
CONS: This deodorant spray has a strong amber and woodsy scent that may not be for everyone.
2. Arrid XX Extra Dry Antiperspirant Deodorant
There’s a reason why men have been using Arrid deodorant products for more than three decades. The company is known for their effective formulas that keep you feeling fresh all day long.
This Arrid XX Extra Dry Antiperspirant Deodorant Spray goes on dry and a few spritzes go a long way. The spray leaves a clean, citrusy scent (not unlike a summery cologne).
Arrid says the spray delivers long-lasting, 24-hour protection.
Arrid won’t have all the skin nourishing ingredients or odor-fighting technology as other brands on our list, but for a no-fuss deodorant that’s proven to work, you can’t go wrong.
This set gets you two cans of antiperspirant deodorant spray.
PROS: Strong and effective.
CONS: Some found the formula to feel a little “heavy” on the skin after application.
3. Dove Men+ Care Extra Fresh Spray
Can a deodorant spray fight off sweat and odors while nourishing your skin? It can, according to Dove, whose popular Dove Men+ Care Extra Fresh Spray contains ¼ moisturizer to help soothe and condition the skin under your arms.
The spray not only refreshes, but it helps to protect against irritation too. The 100% alcohol-free formula won’t dry out your skin, and the formula is safe for all skin types.
Dove says its antiperspirant deodorant spray goes on dry and offers 48 hours of sweat protection. It won’t stain clothes either, and leaving a light, clean scent.
This is sold as a pack of six.
PROS: Moisturizing formula is better for your skin.
CONS: Other options on the list may be better for heavy-duty sweat protection.