Whole Body Deodorant: What Is It and Who Needs It?

If you’ve been paying attention to deodorant these days, you’ve probably started seeing a pattern. With multiple releases of new formulas from heavy hitters in the space, whole body deodorant is having a moment. Designed to go on without irritation in our sweatiest spots, these “whole body” products are made with more than the pits in mind. From chub-rub prevention to to lightening the load on dreaded under-boob sweat, deodorant is doing more these days, and these are the brands getting it done.

Old Spice’s recent study on men’s attitudes regarding body odor discovered that 72% of men worry about how they smell on an average day, with 48% even canceling plans out of fear of smelling. On the other side of the gender spectrum, Lume founder and gynecologist Shannon Klingman, MD, created her whole body deodorant after hearing complaints from women about downstairs odor that was frequently misdiagnosed.

And while wearing deodorant all over isn’t a new way to combat this perceived smelliness, it’s gotten a fresh and skin-safe update with whole body deodorant formulas. But what makes it so different from regular deodorant?

What Is Whole Body Deodorant?

So, odor can come from any part of our body. Smells especially love environments were skin touches skin and it gets to stay nice and damp. While that certainly describes the armpit, it can also apply to anywhere on the body. Fun fact, our feet sweat more than any other part of our bodies!

Up until now, deodorants and antiperspirants have been designed pretty explicitly for the under arm, where skin touches skin without too much friction. But this area, while sensitive in its own right, isn’t the same environment as the chest, under-boob, privates or thighs.

“While body odor is normal, it’s a concern for so many who aren’t quite sure how to address it beyond their armpits,” says Dr. Maiysha Jones, principal scientist, North America Personal Care at Procter & Gamble. “In addition to the armpits, body odor originates from odor-causing bacteria at skin folds like the groin, abdominal skin folds, and between your toes. Old Spice Total Body Deodorant has been formulated with a blend of minerals and skin-friendly ingredients that fight odor-causing bacteria and it’s gentle enough to use all over.”

With a focus on gentleness and skin-care ingredients, a collection of sticks, sprays and creams promises to keep you covered from head to toe. And because the formulas are free of aluminum, parabens and phthalates, these whole body deodorants are perfect for anyone concerned with body odor.

Whole Body Deodorants to Try

1 / 5

Native Whole Body Deodorant Stick Coconut & Vanilla ($13)

Made without aluminum, parabens, baking soda, or talc, Native’s new line of whole body deodorants comes in both stick and spray form. The stick, which comes in unscented, Lilac & White Tea, Coconut & Vanilla as well as Cucumber & Mint, is dermatologist-tested for areas outside of the armpits. Dead Sea minerals and nourishing shea butter allow for the formula to go anywhere without irritation, and it even goes on completely clear!

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2 / 5

Dove Whole Body Deo Unscented Invisible Cream ($13)

If your skin is prone to irritation and breakouts, Dove’s Invisible Cream in Unscented may be exactly what you need to stave off smell while keeping sensitive skin in mind. The cream formula is serum-infused to deliver lactic acid and glycerin to skin while eliminating odor-causing bacteria. Dermatologist and gynecologist tested, this deodorant is perfect for anywhere you sweat from. The full line from Dove includes anti-chafe sticks and subtle fragrances like coconut and vanilla.

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3 / 5

Secret Whole Body Aluminum Free Deodorant Spray ($13)

This whole body deodorant spray is formulated to last long for up to 72 hours of freshness everywhere from your feet to your under-boob. This residue-free spray goes on clear and won’t stain your clothes, making it an excellent choice for an after-gym refresh when you just don’t have time for a shower. The formula is also free from parabens, phthalates and baking soda.

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4 / 5

Lume Clean Tangerine | Cream Tube Deodorant + Sweat Control ($20)

Safe for external use anywhere on the body, Lume’s cream deodorant comes with can’t-beat sweat control that helps keep you fresh for up to 72 hours. The formula is water based to keep you residue free, and is safe to use on privates (externally!). Free from baking soda and dyes, this formula was developed over the course of 10 years to target odor-causing bacteria. Their sister brand, or should we say brother brand, Mando Whole Body Deodorant for men is formulated with masculine-forward scents.

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5 / 5

Old Spice GentleMan’s Blend Total Body Deodorant Stick, Cucumber + Avocado ($13)

Designed with men in mind, this dermatologist-tested whole body deodorant stick can effectively block odor from the pits to the feet to well, you know. Formulated without aluminum, parabens, phthalates or dyes, this whole body stick is made with only 10 ingredients, including coconut oil and shea butter. Including an unscented blend for sensitive skin, the Old Spice line comes in vanilla & shea, lavender & mint, as well as the refreshingly clean cucumber & avocado.

BUY NOW – $13