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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The best spray deodorants and antisperspirants in 2026
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.
Best overall
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.
Best antiperspirant spray
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.
Best for sensitive skin
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.
Best natural spray deodorant
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.
Best for heavy sweating
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.
Best whole body spray
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.
Best scented spray
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.
How I picked the best spray deodorants
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.
- Skin needs: Spray formulas can be deodorants, antiperspirants, or both — which you choose will depend on your skin’s needs, says Garshick. Deodorant blocks odor, while antiperspirant helps reduce sweating overall (for more on the differences between the two, read below).
- Area: While many spray deodorants are designed to be used on the underarms, some formulas can also be used all over the body. I chose to include whole body deodorant spray options to address any odor-causing problem areas that may be outside of the armpit region.
How to shop for spray deodorants
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.
Do you need a deodorant or an antiperspirant?
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.
Antiperspirants form a plug in the sweat glands, which reduces how much sweat reaches your skin’s surface, she says. However, she says antiperspirants can be used by anyone looking to lessen odor, sweat or both, especially during the warmer summer months.
What is your skin type?
Although spray formulas can be used by all skin types, sensitive skin may be irritated by stronger antiperspirant formulas. However, sprays can also reduce irritation, since they don’t require any friction when applying your deodorant. If you have sensitive skin, Garshick recommends avoiding products with common irritants like added fragrance and essential oils.
Frequently asked questions
Deodorants help to mask body odor, while antiperspirants include aluminum compounds to stop sweat and odor-causing bacteria. “Deodorants improve the smell of sweat by targeting odor, acidity, and bacteria, but they do not impact how much sweat is produced,” says Dr. Michele Green — a board-certified dermatologist in New York City who specializes in cosmetic dermatology — in our guide to deodorants and antiperspirants. However, if you’re most concerned about excessive sweating, experts recommend sticking to an antiperspirant.
Yes, aluminum deodorants are safe. However, those with sensitive skin may find some aluminum formulas to be irritating, especially products with higher aluminum concentrations. For sensitive skin, Garshick recommends using fragrance-free antiperspirants, and applying at night to help minimize irritation.
Meet our dermatology expert
At NBC Selected, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Why trust NBC Selected?
I am an associate SEO reporter for NBC Selected, covering skin care, wellness, sports and fitness and more, including stories on how to shop for a whole body deodorant and whether or not you need a deodorant with aluminum. For this story, I spoke to a board-certified dermatologist about the best aluminum deodorants, including product recommendations and advice on how to shop for your own.
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