Of course, traditional deodorants can get the job done, but for those who enjoy a sensorial body care experience, opting for a delightfully aromatic deodorant can be the subtle enhancement you’re looking for. The best-smelling deodorants don’t just mask odor; when formulated with skin-loving ingredients—like AHAs or BHAs, ceramides, and more—your armpits not only smell pleasant but appear brighter, smoother, and less prone to those pesky ingrown hairs.
Caring for your armpits is as important as caring for any other body part and requires a little more attention. You see, all the shaving, waxing, sugaring, and depilatory creams we use on our armpits can result in a barrage of woes that need proper addressing, from hyperpigmentation to rashes or burns. If you’re an avid TikTok scroller, then chances are you’ve seen people employ glycolic acid toners to treat said issues. However, the solution can really be simple: a scented deodorant that’s packed with skin-nourishing ingredients.
Our picks for the best smelling deodorants of 2024
As fragrance lovers ourselves, we perused deodorant stash in ELLE’s beauty closet and combed through dozens of online customer feedback to curate a list of the 14 best-smelling deodorants that won’t disappoint you by the end of the day. Ahead, shop our favorites.
Pros
- Corrects hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Will need to re-up throughout the day
Necessaire’s offerings are imbued with skin-loving ingredients that give the areas below your neck the same TLC as your face—and The Deodorant Gel is no exception. This lightweight gel formula uses exfoliating AHAs to combat odor and hyperpigmentation and niacinamide to strengthen the skin with each swipe.
Key notes: Eucalyptus
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Nordstrom rating: 4.2/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I love the way this deodorant gel feels when you apply it. The eucalyptus scent is so refreshing and spa-like. The formula isn’t long-lasting, so I recommend it only to those who don’t experience much body odor. Personally, I reserve it solely for the cooler months when I am sweating less.”—Danielle James, beauty expert
Pros
- Non-irritating formula
Cons
- Will need to reapply throughout the day
Some people see terms like "natural" associated with deodorant and immediately run for the hills—allow Saltair’s iteration to change your mind. With exfoliating salicylic acid and calming algae, your underarms will be visibly brighter and smoother.
Key notes: Magnolia, rose, jasmine, sandalwood
Size: 1.76 fl oz
Target rating: 3.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I walk fast, which means I can work up a pretty mean sweat throughout the days. I never worry, though, because 90 percent of the time, I’m wearing this Saltair deodorant. Each swipe has a refreshing, delicate scent and a non-sticky formula.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
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Pros
- Brightens dark marks
Cons
- Scent is very faint
Excessive waxing, shaving, or any tension in the pit area can cause darkness, ingrown hairs, burns, etc. But the Kosas deodorant is formulated with a host of AHAs to brighten and exfoliate, as well as hyaluronic acid to keep the skin smooth and hydrated. Plus, it comes with a clean, fresh scent.
Key notes: Jasmine, sandalwood, vanilla
Size: 2.4 fl oz
Sephora rating: 3.9/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “My days of shaving are long behind me, but the dark, burned armpits from years of dull razors and too-harsh depilatory creams are evidence that I have a lot of correcting to do. What seemed like a long journey to clearer, brighter ’pits actually had a very short turnaround time, thanks to this deodorant. The AHAs help exfoliate dead skin and address hyperpigmentation without further irritating the skin. I’ve tried all of Kosas deodorant formulas, and this is the one I love the most.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Non-sticky
Cons
- Heavy sweaters will need to reapply throughout the day
The key ingredients in this formula read like a hydrating serum instead of a deodorant. Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, spirulina, and probiotics protect and soothe the skin as they also neutralize odor.
Key notes: Black rose, oud
Size: 2.6 fl oz
Nordstrom rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I’m usually skeptical of aluminum-free [deodorants] because I can never find one that works for me to keep sweat and smell under control. This one checks all the boxes; I’m impressed.”
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Pros
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Some users note the scent can be very overpowering
On Mount Rushmore of the best-smelling deodorants is this cult favorite from Donna Karan. Everything you love about the accompanying body mist or lotion remains intact in the deodorant, including the intoxicating, powdery floral notes that keep you smelling fresh and clean all day.
Key notes: Moroccan jasmine, lily of the valley
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Nordstrom rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I will never buy regular deodorant again. I bought this blindly and had no idea what it smelled like. I saw someone using it daily before working out and I knew I needed to try it. I can’t express how amazing this deodorant is. It is so fresh, stays on all day and I don’t scratch under my arms all day like I did with other deodorant brands. It’s a beautiful powdery smell, and it pairs so well with my favorite fragrances. Don’t miss out on this deodorant. Buy it TODAY!”
Pros
- Invigorating, bright scent
Cons
- Not an antiperspirant
Scent layering doesn’t just stop at perfumes and lotions. Fans of Sol de Janeiro’s popular body mists and creams will be happy to know they can enhance their Sol layers with an accompanying deodorant. As fruit enzymes exfoliate and tapioca starch sops up sweat, warm gourmands create a soft aroma that protects against odor.
Key notes: Pistachio, vanilla, salted caramel, sandalwood
Size: 2 fl oz
Sephora rating: 3.5/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This product helps very much with heavy odor and leaves you smelling like salted caramel all day❤️. I have gotten many compliments on this the first day of use.”
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Pros
- Lasts throughout the day
Cons
- Some users note it may leave a white residue on skin
You can never go wrong with a classic Dove deodorant spray. Not only is this scent bustling with delicious fruity and floral notes, but it’s also packed with ceramides to add an extra cushion to the skin on your armpits.
Key notes: Pineapple, pear, rose
Size: 3.8 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Stylist Zerina Akers introduced me to this deodorant. I hate it when my deodorant gets on my little black dress before a night out. This formula is truly invisible, so your clothes will never have to suffer from those annoying white streaks just to combat your body odor.”—Danielle James, beauty expert
Pros
- Natural ingredients
Cons
- The scent can be overpowering for some
As the name suggests, this deodorant is packed with sunny citrus ingredients that offer a fresh burst with each spritz. Glycerin, aloe vera, and sugarcane alcohol assist in stopping sweat and harsh odors.
Key notes: Lemon verbena, eucalyptus
Size: 2 fl oz
Sephora rating: 3.8/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Even in the dead of NYC summers, this deodorant has never left me hanging. I love the spray applicator most beccause it doesn’t get messy, and the deodorant itself doesn’t fall out like traditional ones. While the scent is light, the performance of this spray is mighty and a must-have in my collection.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
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Pros
- Doesn’t stain clothing
Cons
- May not be best for sensitive skin
Think about whatever you want to smell like and there’s sure to be a Native scent to match your mood. The best part of Native deodorants is how nourishing it feels on the skin, thanks to a blend of coconut oil, shea butter, and probiotics.
Key notes: Coconut, vanilla
Size: 2.65 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve tried a number of different aluminum-free deodorants and this one was a clear winner for me. I like the fragrance and the texture (not too soft or sticky) and it holds up well for the whole day.”
Pros
- Pleasant smell
Cons
- Some might need to reapply throughout the day
If luxury is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more luxurious than Chanel deodorant. Doused in the house’s iconic No. 5 scent, this spray-on deodorant keeps your armpits fresh and free.
Key notes: Rose, jasmine
Size: 3.4 fl oz
Chanel rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Chanel reviewer says: “Works well and the scent is not overpowering. I don’t want my scent (especially deodorant ) to enter the room before me. High-quality product, works well, and no irritation.”
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Pros
- Long-lasting
Cons
- May not be best for sensitive skin
You can recognize Le Labo’s signature scent anywhere—now imagine all the compliments you’ll field when wearing the deodorant iteration. While the fresh, woody aroma protects against odor, glycerin and vitamin E ensure your skin barrier is supported and nourished.
Key notes: Tonka, sandalwood, bergamot, lavender
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Nordstrom rating: 4.3/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Now this one actually really works its magic and the scent is strong! Love it!”
Pros
- Earthy notes
Cons
- Smell doesn’t last too long
Like a calming body treatment at a tranquil spa, this deodorant offers a soothing scent for your armpits.
Key notes: Eucalyptus extract
Size: 2.6 fl oz
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “This eucalyptus deodorant always transports me to my post-Equinox workouts: I apply the cold washcloth to my face and am immediately enveloped by a eucalyptus scent. This deodorant leaves no residue or stains and is aluminum-free. Add one to your gym bag and thank me later.”—Danielle James, beauty expert
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Pros
- Essential oils protect from odor
Cons
- Needs to dry down completely before getting dressed or it will stain clothes
Here’s a deodorant you can gift to the man in your life—or keep for yourself. With herbal notes and a blend of essential oils, Aesop’s formula keeps sweaty pits at bay and the compliments rolling in.
Key notes: Rosemary, sage
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Revolve rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Revolve reviewer says: “Completely obsessed. Even after a workout I was just as fresh. This will definitely be my new go-to when traveling, working out, or if I have a presentation at work. Love!”
Pros
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Pricey for the size
Forget traditional deodorants and try using a deodorant balm instead. All you need is a pea-sized dollop to protect your armpits from excessive sweating and foul odor. Even better, the balm comes in a variety of scents, from minty to citrusy to earthy.
Key notes: Vetiver, lavandin, citrus
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Amazon rating: 3.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I always wanted to become a “natural deodorant” girlie, but none of the formulas could withstand a sweaty workout. I live in NYC, so sometimes, I don’t always go straight home after my workouts. This formula eliminates any body odor—I confidently met up with a friend after an Orange Theory workout for a smoothie, and I smelled fresh—not funky. This is now the only deodorant that I use.”—Danielle James, beauty expert
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Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE.com’s beauty commerce editor polled editors and perused customer reviews to find the best smelling deodorants on the market.
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Nerisha Penrose
Beauty Commerce Editor
Nerisha Penrose is the Beauty Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Prior to joining the team, she was an Editorial Fellow at ELLE.com. In her current role, she helps lead coverage on makeup, skin care, hair, and fragrances. With over six years of experience in the world of beauty editorial, Nerisha enjoys delving deep into the complexities of fragrance notes, hunting for the best fixes for acne-prone skin, and advocating for daily sunscreen use. She regularly researches and tests the latest products, consults beauty professionals (including our Beauty Advisory Board) to determine the best expert-approved formulas to recommend, and conducts interviews with luminaries across the industry. Nerisha received her bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies from Temple University before joining the editorial teams at Nylon and Billboard. In 2020, she co-launched our popular franchise The State of Black Beauty, an ongoing exploration of—and destination for—beauty at the intersection of Black culture.