When we talk about the spots on your body deserving of skin-care—your hands, your scalp, your butt—it’s rare that “armpits” ever get a mention. Sure, we put deodorant on them every day, but the main focus of that step in your routine is fighting odor instead of taking care of the actual skin under there. But why not get you a product that does both?
Enter: Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Antiperspirant & Deodorant Cream ($22), which will keep your pits dry and stink-free all day while also keeping your skin clear and healthy. “The armpits are very delicate and prone to irritation from sweat, chafing, and shaving, so I appreciate when a product identifies neglected skin and works to pamper it,” says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, who calls this particular D.O. a “great product.”
For starters, you know you can rely on it to keep sweat and odor at bay. “It has a combination antiperspirant and deodorant: The aluminum chlorohydrate decreases sweat production, while the witch hazel and other extracts calm skin and decrease bacteria and odor,” says Dr. Nazarian. Then, there are also the skin-care benefits. “The cream base makes it more hydrating, which is helpful for people who experience a lot of irritation in this area,” she says.
Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Antiperspirant & Deodorant Cream, $22
Though there’s an entire faction of anti-aluminum believers out there, the American Cancer Society has repeatedly said there’s no need to worry about using the ingredient in your anti-stink underarm products, which is good news considering aluminum is one of the best ingredients out there for keeping sweat at bay. The ingredient acts as a plug for your sweat glands and stops you from sweating, which is what makes the product an “anti-perspirant” (instead of a “deodorant,” which allows you to sweat freely while simply offering a mask for the scent). Aluminum is totally safe to use, but it may be irritating on some skin types, so if you’re looking for a metal-free option that offers similar skin-friendly benefits, try Soapwalla’s Lavender Mint Sensitive Deodorant Cream ($18).
Soapwalla’s Lavender Mint Sensitive Deodorant Cream, $18
Unlike the Kiehl’s cream, this product is not an antiperspirant, so won’t technically stop you from sweating. But thanks to club moss and charcoal, it will absorb excess moisture from your pits, and a blend of essential oils will make the area less hospitable to the bacteria, fungus, and microbes that cause odor. And what’s more? Hydrating ingredients like shea butter and jojoba will soothe and soften your skin, and you’ll be left with the sweet scent of lavender and mint.
With either of these products in your armpit arsenal, the skin under your arms will finally get the love (and hydration) it deserves.
Want even more beauty intel from our editors? Join Well+Good’s Fine Print Facebook group (and follow us on Instagram) for must-know tips and tricks.
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.