13 Best Deodorant Soaps to Prevent Body Odor And Smell Incredible

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 15, 2024
Best Deodorant Soaps to Prevent Body Odor And Smell Incredible
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While perfumes are great products to smell better, they are not a permanent solution to keep your body odor in check. To smell better irrespective of wearing perfume, it is important to bathe with the best deodorant soaps that are specifically designed to improve your natural smell. 

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sam Ellis says, “when sweat exits the gland, it doesn’t smell and has no odor. It’s actually the intermingling of the sweat and the bacteria that reside on our skin that create a smell”. Our skin is the natural habitat of thousands of bacteria species that nourish it and maintain its pH balance. However, when these bacteria feed on the mushy dead cells in the folds of the skin, such as the underarms, knees, belly button, and between the toes, it causes an unpleasant musky smell. “You may want to consider using an antibacterial or antimicrobial cleanser”, recommends Ellis to reduce these smells. 

Besides, it is important that your deodorant soap consists of invigorating notes that indulge your senses and improve your natural smell. To help you find the same, we have curated a list of our favorite body cleansers below. Keep reading to learn more.

What Is a Deodorant Soap And How Can It Help?

Deodorant soaps have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to effectively cleanse the skin while reducing unwanted odors. These types of soaps contain ingredients that combat odor-causing bacteria, leaving the skin feeling fresh and clean. The active ingredients in these soaps are typically antimicrobial agents, such as triclosan or tea tree oil, which have been shown to have effective antibacterial properties.  

Using a deodorant soap regularly can help to reduce the likelihood of unpleasant odors developing throughout the day. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who lead active lifestyles or sweat profusely. Additionally, these soaps are often formulated to be gentle and moisturizing, making them a great choice for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.

13 Best Deodorant Soaps

Get your hands on this bar soap by Irish Spring to get a refreshing natural scent every day.  As the name of the brand suggests, the fragrance of the soap reminds one of a rejuvenating springtime out in the woods. Its effects last for about 12 hours, which helps reduce body odor. Hence, it is the perfect body cleanser to use after a sweaty workout session or a long day of traveling

Pros
  • Lathers well
  • Fights bacteria
  • Makes skin squeaky clean
  • Strong scent
  • Less likely to cause soap mush
Cons
  • Very drying
  • Best Creamy Lather

    Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap – Lavender & Twilight Jasmine

    Dial Antibacterial Deodorant Soap – Lavender & Twilight Jasmine
  • This exquisite deodorant soap is crafted with utmost care to ensure that your skin feels healthy, smooth, and beautifully radiant. With its refreshing fragrance, it provides an all-day freshness that lingers on your skin. Unlike other soaps, it also rinses clean without stripping your skin of its natural moisture, leaving you feeling revitalized and hydrated. Addedly, not only does it cleanse and moisturize, but it also acts as an antibacterial soap, ensuring that your skin remains free from bacteria and odor.

    Pros
    • Rich, creamy lather
    • Rinses clean without drying
    • All-day odor protection
    • Fresh fragrance
    Cons
    • Might be too sweet smelling for some
  • Best Moisturizing Formula

    CASWELL-MASSEY GARDENIA BATH SOAP

     CASWELL-MASSEY GARDENIA BATH SOAP
  • This invigorating bath soap by Caswell Massey has a light and powdery signature scent of gardenias. It does not overwhelm your olfactory senses but soothes them with natural notes of moss, earth, and verdant leaves that complement the floral essences. Besides, the soap has a sulfate-free formula that is rich in fatty acids and glycerin, which ensures your skin doesn’t dry up due to the cleansing effect. This luxuriously formulated soap feels absolutely worth the splurge!

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Phthalate-free
    • Sustainably-sourced flowers
    • Rich foamy lather
    • Moisturizing formula
    Cons
    • Expensive

    Quick Tip

    Body odor is a result of bacteria. Lather up those underarms with this soap and exfoliate gently to rid yourself of bacteria and dead skin cells.

  • Best Pocket-friendly

    Lever 2000 Bar Soap, Original - 16 Bars

    Lever 2000 Bar Soap, Original - 16 Bars
  • This is one of the best deodorant soaps that not only provides a refreshing and effective cleansing experience but also helps combat body odor, leaving you feeling fresh and confident throughout the day. What's more is that this premium-quality soap is highly affordable and packed with potent ingredients that work to deliver a deep yet gentle cleanse to rejuvenate your skin. You'll love the original classic scent that keeps you smelling fresh for longer. Moreover, this versatile bar soap is perfect for all body parts and gentle enough to be used as a facial cleanser.

    Pros
    • Refreshing
    • Classic scent
    • Pocket-friendly
    • Moisturizing
    Cons
    • Doesn’t produce a creamy lather
  • Best Long-lasting

    COAST PACIFIC FORCE REFRESHING DEODORANT SOAP

    COAST PACIFIC FORCE REFRESHING DEODORANT SOAP
  • You will fall in love with the rich, foamy lather of this deodorant soap by Coast as it purifies your skin like nothing else. The product uplifts and energizes your senses with every shower. Hence, it is perfect to use every morning to feel awake and ready to face the day. This soap has an antimicrobial formula that effectively fights germs and alleviates body odor. To top it off, its crisp, aquatic, and masculine scent makes it one of the best soaps for men’s body odor. 

    Pros
    • Free from harsh chemicals
    • Long-lasting bar
    • Cleanses well
    • Doesn’t dry out the skin
    • Reasonably-priced
    Cons
    • Poor packaging

    Quick Tip

    Make sure that your soap is dry between uses. The more your soap dries, the less chance of bacteria thriving on it.

  • Best Cruelty-free

    TRUREMEDY NATURALS NATURAL REMEDY SOAP

    TRUREMEDY NATURALS NATURAL REMEDY SOAP
  • An exhilarating blend of tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint oils, this product by Truremedy is truly a remedy soap for body odor. These refreshing ingredients purify your skin and soothe itches and inflammation. In addition, the formula also consists of skin conditioners such as aloe vera, botanical oils, and fatty acids that replenish and hydrate the skin’s surface. Be rest assured about the fact that it does not dry your skin as it is free from sulfates and other harsh ingredients.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Rich in vitamin C and E
    • Delightful tingling sensation
    • Luxuriously moisturizing
    • Refreshing minty scent
    Cons
    • Dissolves quickly
  • Best for All Skin Types

    mirai CLINICAL Purifying & Deodorizing Soap Bar

    mirai CLINICAL Purifying & Deodorizing Soap Bar
  • Infused with the goodness of green tea, this deodorant soap by Mirai delightfully revitalizes your skin and reduces funky smells. Its fresh, citrusy note of Japanese persimmon indulges your olfactory senses and makes every shower enjoyable. This marvelous product is plush with skin conditioners such as olive oil, hyaluronic acid, and squalene that ensure the cleansing action does not strip away your skin’s natural moisture.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Anti-aging benefits
    • Reasonably priced
    • Improves skin’s elasticity
    • Great for all skin types
    • Rich in antioxidants
    • Sustainably sourced ingredients
    Cons
    • Less quantity
  • Best Gentle Formula

    Safeguard MICELLAR DEEP CLEANING BAR SOAP

    Safeguard MICELLAR DEEP CLEANING BAR SOAP
  • The nourishing fatty acids infused in this deodorant soap bar by Safeguard replenish your skin’s lipid barrier and prevent trans-epidermal water loss. It has a soft, clean smell, similar to that of baby powder, which is perfect to make your smell nicer and reduce funky odors. Plus, it also hydrates and pampers your skin to make it feel soft, supple, and healthy. In fact, its formulation is so safe and mild that even people with sensitive skin can apply it on a regular basis.

    Pros
    • Gentle cleanser
    • Cost-effective
    • Fights harmful bacteria
    • Doesn’t overwhelm your senses
    Cons
    • Dissolves easily
  • Best Hydrating

    Hunters Specialities SCENT A-WAY ODOR CONTROL BAR SOAP

    Hunters Specialities SCENT A-WAY ODOR CONTROL BAR SOAP
  • If you are constantly exposed to pollutants and environmental aggressors, then this is one of the best deodorant soaps for body odor in men you can get your hands on. It has antibacterial properties to combat germs and bacteria lingering on your skin. Fortified with the goodness of aloe vera, the soap also soothes your skin and prevents drying. This soap won’t tamper with the smell of any other deodorant or anti-odor product you may be using.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting bar
    • Cost-effective
    • Non-drying
    • Doesn’t overpower your senses
    • Hydrating formula
    Cons
    • Very faint fragrance
  • Best Luxury Gift for Men

    360 FEEL Men’s Handmade Deodorant Soap - Pack of 4

    360 FEEL Men’s Handmade Deodorant Soap - Pack of 4
  • This pack of 4 soaps by 360 Feel come in invigorating masculine fragrances — Bay Rum Bold and Spicy, Pine Tar with Charcoal, Island Citrus with Seasalt, and Oatmeal, and Patchouli with Peppermint leaves. These soaps are formulated with rich botanical skin conditioners such as olive oil, coconut oil, soybean oil, hemp oil, and organic shea butter. By using these soaps on a regular basis, you will notice that your skin has not only started to smell incredible but also has a softer texture.

    Pros
    • Highly moisturizing
    • Cruelty-free
    • Free from harmful chemicals
    • Luxurious and giftable
    • Made with premium ingredients
    Cons
    • Slow results
  • Irish Spring DEEP ACTION DEODORANT SOAP

    Irish Spring DEEP ACTION DEODORANT SOAP
  • This exfoliating soap for body odor by Irish Spring contains scrubbing beads inspired by Celtic rock salt that gently slough off dirt, grime, and funk-causing bacteria from your skin’s pores. It has a rejuvenating masculine fragrance that makes every shower enjoyable and makes one confident in their own skin. The deodorant soap is the perfect product to get your hands on to get a squeaky-clean feel.

    Pros
    • Purifying
    • Clean, fresh scent
    • Not too abrasive
    • Improves epidermal blood flow
    Cons
    • Not for sensitive skin
    • Bit drying
  • Dr. Squatch MEN’S NATURAL SOAP - Pack of 3

    Dr. Squatch MEN’S NATURAL SOAP - Pack of 3
  • These deodorant soap bars by Dr. Squatch come in three exhilarating flavors that will fantastically spruce up your showers. Each bar consists of exfoliating grits of pumice, red corn, glacier minerals, and other such natural ingredients that help get rid of dirt and bacteria lingering on your skin’s surface. In addition to these, the soaps also contain rich emollients such as coconut oil and shea butter that make your skin soft and supple alongside perfecting the cleansing action.

    Pros
    • Purifying formula
    • Naturally derived
    • Highly moisturizing
    • Free from harsh chemicals
    • Fresh, masculine fragrances
    Cons
    • Some soaps may cause stains
  • Best Post-exercise Cleanser

    AOS ACTIVATED CHARCOAL BODY BAR

    AOS ACTIVATED CHARCOAL BODY BAR
  • One of the best deodorant soaps for men, this cleanser is infused with activated charcoal that helps get rid of impurities on your skin. It has a citrusy opening note of lemon, a camphoraceous heart note of cedar leaves, and a long-lasting smooth scent of vanilla extracts — a blend that may make you skip wearing a perfume. To top off, it contains the emollient properties of shea butter and hyaluronic acid, which wonderfully pamper and moisturize your skin.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Gives all-day freshness
    • Makes skin soft and supple
    • Naturally-derived ingredients
    • Great to use after gym/exercise
    Cons
    • Short-lasted fragrance

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best deodorant soaps, let us go through the following buying guide so you can make an informed purchase. Also, go through the steps to use a deodorant soap to make the best of it.

    What to Consider When Buying a Deodorant Soap?

    Here are some of the factors one should consider when buying a deodorant soap. They are as follows:

    Fragrance: Not all soap fragrances are meant for you! Hence, the fragrance is the very first thing to consider before investing in a deodorant soap. Many soaps are specifically crafted either for men, which consist of woody, minty, and citrusy notes, or for women, which consists of floral, fruity, and balsamic notes. In addition, some fresh and clean-smelling soap bars are often unisex and can be used by anyone. These products are less likely to overwhelm your senses and are suitable for scent-sensitive folks. 

    Pro Tip

    Choose deodorant soaps with antibacterial agents like triclosan to stay confident and odor-free all day!

    Cleansing Action: To help you smell better, it is important that your deodorant soap has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties to fight odor-causing bacteria and germs that linger on your skin. Some cleansing agents consist of sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), citric acid, essential oils of tea tree and eucalyptus, citrus extracts, witch hazel extracts, etc. AHAs and salicylic acid too can help deep-cleanse your pores of dirt, grime, and excess oil to purify your skin. And if you want to take the cleansing action up a notch, you can try soaps with physical exfoliants such as powdered pumice, sea salts, granulated coffee, etc. 

    Moisturizing Benefits: It is important that your deodorant soap contains rich emollient ingredients to mollify the cleansing action and prevent moisture loss. Some excellent moisturizing agents include hyaluronic acid, shea butter, botanical oils, coconut extracts, squalene, glycerin, etc.

    Price And Longevity: If possible, get your hands on deodorant soap bars that retain their shapes and don’t dissolve too quickly. This ensures that your product lasts for a long time and gives good value for your money. 

    How to Use a Deodorant Soap?

    Here are a few simple steps to make the best of your deodorant soap:

    Step 1: Start by dampening your skin with a quick shower. 

    Step 2: Take your favorite deodorant soap and gently rub it on your skin.

    Step 3: Lather the product all over your body till you get a rich, creamy foam. You can also use a loofah or an exfoliating glove to do this.

    Step 4: If your soap contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, AHAs, or BHA, and is free from sulfates, consider leaving the product on your skin for 1-2 minutes. 

    Step 5: Rinse the soap off in a way that no residue is left on your skin. Follow up with towel-drying your skin. 

    Many people suffer from body odor issues, especially those who work in crowded, or polluted environments that are breeding grounds for germs. The above-mentioned product recommendations for the best deodorant soaps will help combat this issue while also nourishing your skin and indulging your olfactory senses. Ensure you go through our buying guide to shop wisely and make the best of your product. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    What is the best deodorant soap to reduce body odor?
    Truremedy Naturals Natural Remedy Soap and Mirai Purifying & Deodorizing Soap Bar are some of the best deodorant soaps to reduce body odor.
    Does bar soap expire?
    Yes, most soap bars have a shelf life of 1-2 years. But, this varies depending on the ingredients used in it. Soaps that are naturally formulated and are free from synthetic emulsifiers and stabilizing agents expire even earlier.
    Can I use deodorant soaps on my face?
    While deodorant soaps may be effective at combating body odor, they are not recommended for use on the face as they may cause dryness and irritation. It is advisable to use a gentle facial cleanser that is specifically formulated for delicate facial skin.
    Which deodorant soap has a fragrance that lingers for a long time?
    The Irish Spring deodorant soap boasts a captivating fragrance that effortlessly lingers throughout the day, ensuring you stay fresh and pleasantly scented.
    What is the difference between a deodorant and regular soap?
    Deodorant soaps contain added antibacterial agents and fragrances to help eliminate body odor, while regular soaps mainly focus on cleansing without any specialized odor-fighting properties.
    Do deodorant soaps dry the skin?
    No, deodorant soaps do not dry the skin. They effectively cleanse while also leaving the skin moisturized and refreshed.
    Are deodorant soaps antibacterial?
    Yes, most deodorant soaps contain antibacterial agents that help kill germs and keep you feeling fresh and clean.
    Do deodorant soaps have any side effects?
    Deodorant soaps may lead to dry, irritated skin, or allergic reactions due to their high content of fragrances and other chemical ingredients. It's recommended to test a small area of the skin first before using them regularly.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka, our in-house skincare specialist, states that deodorant soaps are a convenient option for anyone who wants to feel fresh and clean all through the day. They are formulated to deliver cleansing benefits while also combating unpleasant odors. She put all of the products to the test and discovered that Irish Spring’s Original Clean Deodorant soap outshined the rest. It had a very enjoyable fragrance and the effect lasted for about 12 hours straight. Plus, it works great as an after-workout soap.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Pinkvilla to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More