These Clinical-Strength Deodorants Are Stronger Than Your Average Stick

If you’re constantly battling pit stains and stubborn B.O. (and your go-to stick just isn’t cutting it), look to the best clinical-strength deodorants and antiperspirants. What sets them apart from your run-of-the-mill deos? These heavy-duty products are designed for individuals who need additional sweat and odor protection, whether due to hyperhidrosis, a demanding lifestyle, postpartum hormonal changes, or simply genetics. Unlike regular formulas, these formulas have more aluminum-based compounds that work to block sweat glands and help keep excess moisture—and the body odor that comes with it—under control right at the source.

Our Top Clinical-Strength Deodorants and Antiperspirants

And despite the “clinical” label, you don’t need a prescription to grab one—many are available right at the drugstore. According to dermatologists, the formula works best when applied at night to clean, dry skin, allowing it time to activate while you sleep. Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of the best clinical-strength deodorants for staying dry, fresh, and streak-free—no matter what your day throws at you.

Best Overall: Certain Dri Clinical Strength

Why it’s worth it: Certain Dri Clinical Strength is a game-changer for anyone dealing with hyperhidrosis or relentless, stress-induced sweat. Containing the highest strength available over the counter, “it has 15% aluminum chloride, which is the same ingredient that is found in prescription-strength antiperspirants to effectively reduce sweating that can cause odor,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

Unlike standard deodorants, this roll-on works while you sleep, when sweat glands are less active, and offers all-day dryness with just a few nighttime applications a week. Thanks to an unscented formula, “I also find this to be gentle and effective for sensitive skin types,” adds Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology, based in East Norriton, PA.

Best for Workouts: Degree Clinical Women’s Antiperspirant Deodorant Active Shield

Degree

Clinical Women’s Antiperspirant Deodorant

Why it’s worth it: If you’re someone who works out on the regular, stress-sweats through your commute, or just happens to live somewhere that feels like a sauna year-round, Degree Clinical Women’s Antiperspirant Deodorant Active Shield gets it. It goes on dry and features the brand’s breakthrough MotionSense technology that release a puff of fragrance whenever you move and sweat. It’s a true five-in-one: it keeps sweat in check, stops odor before it starts, smells amazing, dries fast, and leaves your underarms feeling smooth and soft.

Best for Dry Skin: Dove Clinical Protection Antiperspirant and Deodorant

Dove

Clinical Protection Antiperspirant and Deodorant

Why it’s worth it: If your underarms tend to feel dry, angry, or extra sensitive—especially after shaving—Dove Clinical Protection Antiperspirant and Deodorant can help calm things down. It’s built to handle sweat effectively while being very gentle on the skin, making it perfect for those who experience post-shave irritation. “This alcohol-free formula offers 20% aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly to effectively reduce sweat, as well as moisturizing sunflower seed oil to soothe the skin and minimize skin irritation,” says Dr. Garshick. The creamy stick glides on smoothly and leaves your underarms soft, calm, and protected. It also dries down clean with a fresh, subtle scent that’s anything but powdery.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Anti-Perspirant Deodorant for Sensitive Skin

Vanicream

Anti-Perspirant Deodorant for Sensitive Skin

Why it’s worth it: Vanicream Anti-Perspirant Deodorant is a skin-soothing roll-on deodorant for anyone who needs strong sweat protection without the irritation. It contains 20% aluminum zirconium to keep wetness and odor in check, But if your armpits tend to get irritated, good news: “It’s also free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens and other common allergens, making it a great option for someone with particularly sensitive skin who is looking for a clinical strength option,” says Dr. Garshick. It glides on smoothly, won’t clog pores, and won’t sting post-shave.

Best Invisible Formula: Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant

Secret

Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant

Why it’s worth it: Live in head-to-toe black? Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant (a multi-Best of Beauty Award winner) has your back, with powerful protection that won’t leave behind telltale white marks. The invisible solid formula glides on clear and smooth, so you can wear whatever you want without worrying about streaks. “I find this one glides on easily and smoothly and works well for most patients,” says Dr. Saedi. It provides up to 48 hours of protection against sweat and odor control, and comes in a variety of fresh or floral scents to suit your style. “I love that it offers a variety of fragrances, so you can choose something that feels like you,” she adds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do clinical-strength deodorants and antiperspirants actually work?

Yes, clinical-strength deodorants and antiperspirants do work, especially for those dealing with excessive sweating or who haven’t had luck with regular formulas. “They are most effective when applied at nighttime to clean, dry skin, as they work to plug up the sweat glands, which helps to prevent the release of sweat,” says Dr. Garshick. These formulas have more active ingredients, which help provide extended protection that lasts longer. “If you’re still not seeing results, it’s best to see a board-certified dermatologist,” she adds.

What is the difference between clinical strength and regular deodorant?

The main difference between clinical-strength and regular deodorant comes down to the concentration of active ingredients. “Clinical strength deodorants contain higher concentrations of aluminum salts and may be especially good for those experiencing excessive sweating,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick. She adds, “It is important to distinguish between deodorant, which is designed to mask odor, and antiperspirant, which helps to block sweat.” So while regular deodorants may help you smell fresh, clinical-strength antiperspirants are better suited for those who need extra protection against wetness and odor.

Meet the experts

• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology, based in East Norriton, PA
• Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City

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