I will never forget the time when I played a tough line 1 singles in a 5.0 USTA league match wearing a random brand of deodorant. The match went on for nearly three hours. By the time my match was over, I was drenched and smelled worse than a men’s gym locker room 🙁
Let me just say I learned a big, smelly lesson that day! I need to use the right deodorant for ME.
With literally dozens—if not hundreds—of deos on the market, it can be daunting to narrow down those that *actually* work. This is especially true for players prone to excessive sweating and odor. With this in mind, we set out to find the best antiperspirants and deodorants for tennis players, and we’re breaking down everything below.
What to look for
Antiperspirant vs. deodorants
Not all deodorants are antiperspirants (anti-sweat). Antiperspirants keep you dry, while deodorants mask the odor that comes from natural bacteria in the skin. The best antiperspirants are those that control moisture from sweat and odor from bacteria.
Ingredients
As you shop for the best deodorants for sweat, you’ll find that many contain aluminum compounds like aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium, aluminum chloride, and aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex. (Say that fast three times, lol!)
Aluminum-based formulas block the sweat duct, preventing sweat from being released and keeping you (ideally) dry. Currently, the FDA only categorizes aluminum-based formulas as true “antiperspirants.”
Though aluminum is most-effective for reducing sweat, higher-strength aluminum antiperspirants may irritate your skin. On a note: Antiperspirants have received a bad rap in recent years due to their aluminum formulation (some have been linked to breast cancer). However, the American Cancer Society has reported there is no reason to worry with today’s formulations (phew!).
Meanwhile, aluminum-free deodorant—aka natural deodorant—has become increasingly popular due to the “clean beauty” revolution. However, it is important to know that ‘natural’ doesn’t mean gentle, nor that it will be well-tolerated by all. In fact, natural ingredients may irritate the skin or trigger hypersensitivity reactions. While there’s nothing wrong with trying a natural deodorant (go for it!), don’t just do it with the mindset that it’s “better” or more gentle on the skin as that’s not always the case.
Scent
The best-smelling deodorants won’t disappoint, but the fragrance may irritate those with allergies and/or sensitive skin. If this is the case for you, swap your scented deodorant for a fragrance-free one. Just know that “unscented” and “fragrance-free” are not the same. Fragrance-free products don’t contain any natural or synthetic fragrances, while unscented ones may have added fragrance agents to mask or neutralize odors.
A solid antiperspirant can help you handle excess sweat. Ahead are twelve of the best dermatologist-approved deodorants for sweaty, super-sweaty, and stinky pits.
The best deodorants for tennis players
Best Overall Pick:
Degree Advanced, 72H MotionSense Antiperspirant Deodorant — $5.00
One of the best deodorants for tennis players is Degree’s Advanced Antiperspirant Deodorant. It is unique in that it offers a whopping 72 hours of sweat and odor protection. The result? Dry, great-smelling pits for hours on end. With this in mind, it’s no wonder this wallet-friendly deo, which clocks in at just $5 is our number-one pick for the best deodorants. It’s also worth noting that shoppers can choose from a handful of scents such as white flowers & lychee, vanilla & jasmine, and mint & wildflowers, to name a few.
Size: 2.6 ounces
What reviews say: “Finally a deodorant that works and lasts. Dry and no smelly armpits!!” —Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Degree Advanced, 72H MotionSense Antiperspirant Deodorant
For dry, great-smelling pits for hours on end.
Best For Sensitive Skin:
Vanicream, Antiperspirant Deodorant — $11.00
Vanicream is our top pick for the best deodorant for sensitive skin since it boasts an effective formula to reduce wetness without irritation. The fragrance-free deodorant also contains aluminum to provide 24-hour sweat protection. Plus, it’s formulated without many potential irritants such as dyes, parabens, and formaldehyde releasers.
Size: 2.25 ounces
What reviews say: “I have very sensitive skin but also live in a hot and humid area. I’m desperately needed an effective deodorant that would also not irritate my skin. This is a miracle product! All my skin irritation has resolved and hasn’t returned (I’ve been using this for months now) AND it’s a more effective deodorant than any I’ve used before. Highly recommend for anyone, not just people with sensitive skin.” —Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Vanicream, Antiperspirant Deodorant
The fragrance-free deodorant also contains aluminum to provide 24-hour sweat protection.
Best Natural Deodorant:
Caudalie, Vinofresh Natural Stick Deodorant — $16.00
Another brand to make our list of best deodorants for tennis players is Caudalie’s Vinofresh Natural Stick Deodorant. It is, hands-down, one of the best natural deodorants for women on the market. We loves its creamy formula, which swipes without feeling sticky or leaving a white residue. This aluminum-free deo relies chiefly on organic prebiotic grape water, which hydrates the underarm skin. Lastly, we’d be remiss not to mention its soothing eucalyptus scent.
Size: 1.7 ounces
What reviews say: “The deodorant is very natural and goes on smooth, invisible and it has such a beautiful eucalyptus scent. It worked all day for me! My new favorite!” —Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Caudalie, Vinofresh Natural Stick Deodorant
hands-down, this is one of the best natural deodorants for women on the market.
Best Spray Deodorant:
Dove, Advanced Care Invisible Dry Spray Antiperspirant — $9.00
Looking for a deodorant that won’t stain your tennis outfits? Consider Dove Advanced Care Invisible Dry Spray Antiperspirant, a fan-favorite for its fast-drying formula that leaves no residue behind. As one of the best deodorants for smelly armpits, it’s specially formulated to keep your underarms dry and odor-free for up to 48 hours sans any irritation (it’s alcohol-free!). It also features a refreshing scent with notes of pineapple and florals.
Size: 3.8 ounces
What reviews say: “This product could’ve saved me so much embarrassment in middle/high school. Switching from a stick to this literally changed my life!” –Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Dove, Advanced Care Invisible Dry Spray Antiperspirant
it’s specially formulated to keep your underarms dry and odor-free for up to 48 hours sans any irritation.
Best Roll-On Deodorant:
Necessaire, The Deodorant Gel — $22.00
Necessaire is known for its skin care-infused body-care products, and the brand’s Deodorant Gel is no exception. As one of the best deodorants for tennis players regarding sweat, it boasts a clear gel formula that glides smoothly onto pits without sticking, and it also features five percent AHA to gently exfoliate your underarms. Other ingredient highlights include skin-calming niacinamide and chamomile extract, as well as hydrating glycerin and a slew of botanical oils. Choose from three varieties: eucalyptus, sandalwood, or fragrance-free.
Size: 1.7 ounces
What reviews say: “This deodorant is the best I’ve ever tried. It took a little getting used to because it dries so fast that you can’t tell how much you put on but it lasted me the whole day with no odor or perspiration. The price is reasonable and I love how it’s vegan and cruelty and much more. Will definitely be my go-to deodorant from now on.!” —Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Necessaire, The Deodorant Gel
It boasts a clear gel formula that glides on smoothly and features AHA to gently exfoliate your pits.
Best Budget Antipersperant and Deodorant:
Certain Dri, Prescription Strength Clinical Antiperspirant — $9.00
Forgot to put on deodorant while running out the door? (We’ve all been there.) We’ve got your back: Certain Dri Prescription Strength Antiperspirant—lauded by many reviewers as the best antiperspirant on the market—contains 12 percent aluminum chloride. It also provides up to 72 hours of sweat and odor protection. (Although, we definitely recommend re-applying daily.) Oh, and did we mention the ultra-wallet-friendly price tag?
Size: 1.2 ounces
What reviews say: “This deodorant is magic!! No scent so it doesn’t interfere with perfume. Keeps you totally dry!!” —Walmart customer
Pros:
Cons:
Certain Dri, Prescription Strength Clinical Antiperspirant
It provides up to 72 hours of sweat and odor protection.
Best-Scented Antiperspirant:
Donna Karan, Cashmere Mist Deodorant — $32.00
With notes of Moroccan Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, and Sandalwood, it’s no wonder why Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant is considered to be one of the best smelling deodorants on the market. It’s really more like a 2-in-1 deodorant-perfume. And, fortunately, it works just as amazing as it smells since it’s formulated with the active ingredient Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex. The result? Underarms that’ll stay dry all day long. Truly one of the best deodorants for tennis players EVER!
Size: 1.7 ounces
What reviews say: “This deodorant is just chef’s kiss. I’ve been buying it for a few years now. Definitely perfect for this hot humid weather. You know it’s real when you don’t mind the price.” –Amazon
Pros:
Cons:
Best Unscented Antipersirant and Deodorant:
Almay Clear Gel Fragrance Free Deodorant — $4.00
We love the Almay Clear Gel Fragrance Free Deodorant for its fragrance-free formula that’s incredibly gentle on the skin. It’s dermatologist-tested for all types of skin and provides all day wetness and odor protection… nice!
Size: 2.2 ounces
What reviews say: “Very long lasting. I put this on and walked five miles the next day in 80 degree humid weather. Perfection. Will buy again and again. Really a miracle product that has set the bar in the world of clean deodorants.” —Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Almay Clear Gel Fragrance Free Deodorant
Gentle and hypoallergenic antiperspirant deodorant for sensitive skin that provides all day wetness and odor protection.
Best Clinical Strength Antiperspirant and Deodrant:
Secret Clinical, Completely Clean Invisible Solid Antiperspirant & Deodorant — $9.00
Our list of the best deodorants for tennis players couldn’t be without Secret Clinical Completely Clean Invisible Solid Antiperspirant & Deodorant. It’s a fan favorite! It’s formulated with aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex to effectively reduce sweat. It also contains provitamin B5 to moisturize the skin. Lastly, this deodorant goes on completely invisible, so you need not worry about it staining your favorite tennis outfit or clothes.
Size: 1.6 ounces
What reviews say: “I sweat quite a bit, and after puberty, I had a very difficult time trying to find an antiperspirant that would control the wetness under my arms. Once I discovered Secret Clinical, it worked so well that I will never use anything else, as long as it is available!” –Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Secret Clinical, Completely Clean Invisible Solid Antiperspirant & Deodorant
This non-staining formula effectively reduces sweat and contains provitamin B5 to moisturize the skin.
Best Brightening Deodorant:
Kiehl’s, Body Fuel Antiperspirant Deodorant — $29.00
While it’s technically a men’s deodorant, Kiehl’s Body Fuel Antiperspirant Deodorant is suitable for everyone, regardless of gender. We especially like it because it’s formulated with vitamin C to lighten discoloration. It’s also spiked with zinc, which helps soothe the skin. Plus, it dries fast, doesn’t come off on your clothing, and leaves a cooling sensation.
Size: 2.5 ounces
What reviews say: “I’ve loved this since I discovered it. Long lasting and works great, no residue, stickiness, just glides on and lasts.” —Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Kiehl’s, Body Fuel Antiperspirant Deodorant
This fast-drying formula has vitamin C to lighten discoloration and zinc, which helps soothe the skin.
Best Drugstore Deodorant:
Native, Coconut & Vanilla Natural Deodorant — $13.00
Between its delicious scent and gentle yet effective formula, it’s no surprise why Native Coconut & Vanilla Natural Deodorant is one of the best deodorants for tennis players. The deodorant—which is free of aluminum, phthalates, talc, and parabens—is loaded with naturally derived ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. Best of all, there’s no greasy residue left behind after you swipe.
Size: 2.65 ounces
What reviews say: “This is probably the best deodorant I have ever used. The scent is so pleasant and it keeps me dry throughout the day..” –Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Native, Coconut & Vanilla Natural Deodorant
This non-greasy deodorant is free of aluminum, phthalates, talc, and parabens.
Best Cream Deodorant:
Drunk Elephant, Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream — $18.00
Despite its cream formulation, Drunk Elephant’s Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream (which you can apply using your fingers) is fairly lightweight in texture. However, it still packs a powerful punch with hero ingredients like absorbent arrowroot and antibacterial mandelic acid. The aluminum-, fragrance-, and baking-soda-free deo contains glycerin and shea butter, along with fatty acid-laden sweet almond extract and marula butter.
Size: 2 ounces
What reviews say: “I have tried every deodorant you can possibly think of, spray, stick, natural and all of them left me with odour and raw armpits. This deodorant keeps me dry, odor-free, and has not cause a single rash, no hives and no raw armpits. This deodorant is the best thing I have ever found and I am so glad I did. If you have sensitive armpits, give this a try, it has literally changed my life!” — Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Drunk Elephant, Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream
Aluminum-, fragrance-, and baking-soda-free deo contains glycerin and shea butter, along with fatty acid-laden sweet almond extract and marula butter.
Tennis Life Editor Favorite:
Athena Club, 48-Hour Odor Protection — $10.00
When Athena Club says “all day,” the brand means it. Tennis Life editor Maria tested the Athena Club, 48-Hour Deo for a month: She wore it while giving daily tennis lessons in Austin’s 98+ degree summer heat. She wore it during numerous nerve-racking Zoom calls for work. She even took it with her on vacation to Cancún (where it was 100+ degrees and reached 100 percent humidity). Even though the formula is plant-based and aluminum free—which Maria initially had concerns about—this stuff worked. Thanks to tapioca starch (an alternative to baking soda that effectively absorbs sweat), coconut oil (which hydrates), and chamomile extract (this soothes and prevents irritation), pits stay stink-free *and* nourished. The scents are refreshing (Maria tried Petal Bloom, which is an elegant blend of rose water, peony petals, and lychee), and the formula goes on completely clear. If you’re not used to plant-based formulas, do know that you’ll still sweat a little in high-intensity situations—but you won’t smell.
Size: 2 oz
What reviews say: “This is my favorite deodorant. I have sensitive skin and eczema and a lot of deodorants can cause me to have flare-ups. Not the case with this one. Also, the scents are so pretty. People often compliment me on the perfume I’m wearing and they are usually surprised when I tell them I don’t have perfume on. Just deodorant!” — Amazon customer
Pros:
Cons:
Best for teens:
Truly, Unicorn Fruit Skin Brightening Deodorant — $18.00
Rounding out list of best deodorants for tennis players is Truly, Unicorn Fruit Skin Brightening Deodorant. When we say this smells like a slice of Funfetti cake, we really mean it—which is why we’re recommending it as the best deodorant for teens. They’ll want to actually wear it, so you don’t have to keep reminding them to apply every morning. Another aluminum-free option that’s still highly effective, Unicorn Fruit Skin deodorant brightens pits (thanks to papaya enzymes that exfoliate skin, as well as scotch pine park, an antioxidant that fights discoloration). It also leaves armpits hydrated, thanks to bacuri and mango butter in the formula.
Size: 3 oz.
What reviews say: “WOW! Truly the best. High performance and lasts even into the next day. Amazing fragrance. I am purchasing some for my daughter now too, and will never use another deodorant.” — Ulta
Pros:
Cons:
Truly, Unicorn Fruit Skin Brightening Deodorant
Unicorn Fruit Skin deodorant brightens pits and leaves armpits hydrated, thanks to bacuri and mango butter.
These made our list of the best deodorants for tennis players. Do you have a favorite brand that’s not listed here? Please share it with us below and we may give it a try 🙂
