The best antiperspirants are a far cry from the stuff that so many of us have used in the past. They’ve long been shadowed by that dreaded “A” word, aluminum, which clean beauty enthusiasts suggest you avoid so that you sweat and release toxins. Though deodorants these days smell so good that they rival colognes, many of us just can’t shake the deodorant funk—no matter how many times we try. Whether walking, running, lifting, or any other physical activity, many of us don’t want sweat getting in the way.
That’s where the best antiperspirants come in. While no antiperspirant will stop sweat completely, it will reduce it significantly. We tested dozens to help find the best ones for your lifestyle, whether you need something for everyday use or a clinical-strength option. The antiperspirants here contain aluminum—still the gold standard in stopping sweat despite the stigma (which we’ll address below)—but most importantly, they work.
The Best Antiperspirants, According to GQ
Old Spice High Endurance Anti-Perspirant and Deodorant (3-Pack)
Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant Cream
In This Guide
Best Antiperspirant Overall: Dove Men+Care Clean Comfort Deodorant Stick
For a reliable antiperspirant that checks all the boxes, Dove Men+Care is hard to beat. I wore it for a full day, and it kept me more than adequately dry, with a subtle scent that won’t compete with your cologne. The formula uses aluminum sesquichlorohydrate (don’t even try to pronounce it), but it’s a milder aluminum compound ideal for those with sensitive skin who still want effective sweat protection. What also stands out is how soothing it feels and how smoothly it spreads on, thanks to the addition of moisturizing cream—it’s like moisturizing your pits while keeping them dry. For an all-around reliable workhorse that’s easy to find both in stores and online, this stick is your best bet for moderate sweat protection.
Best-Smelling Antiperspirant: Jack Black Pit Boss Big Sur Antiperspirant
An antiperspirant or deodorant should never outshine a great cologne, but Jack Black’s new Reserve Collection is here to change that perception. Most antiperspirants have a somewhat artificial aroma—a chalky, chemical scent. However, Jack Black took a fresh approach by building a scent pyramid, like those found in colognes, into this stick. It opens with top notes of bergamot and citrus, transitions to heart notes of juniper and lavender, and finishes with woodsy base notes of amber and moss. But it’s not just about fragrance—this stick delivers on performance, too. Aluminum zirconium, an industry standard, keeps you dry, while vitamin E provides antioxidant support, and aloe leaf soothes the skin.