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For some, picking a deodorant comes down to a preference in formula and scent. But for those with skin conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), finding deodorants and antiperspirants that don’t irritate the skin can be a challenge.
Sweating increases friction, and both excessive sweat and friction can further irritate the skin. Finding a gentle, but reliable antiperspirant may help with HS. Body odor is also a worry for many with HS, making finding an effective deodorant important. Many people with HS cycle through tubes and spray cans in search of a product that doesn’t aggravate their symptoms.
Luckily, members and doctors have shared their recommendations on the best deodorants for people with HS. Here, we will explore how to choose the right deodorants and antiperspirants when living with HS, including what to look for and what to avoid.
Many myHSteam members find that deodorant irritates their skin. “Deodorant is a trigger,” wrote one member. “I use natural deodorant — anything else causes a flare-up.” Some find that new deodorants that work well in the short term can cause long-term problems. As one member shared, “I’ve had a really bad flare-up under both of my arms. I tried a new deodorant, and it seemed to work well that entire day. I used it the following day, and the flare-up was very intolerable. After cleansing with Dial antibacterial soap several times throughout the day, I began to feel the pain ease slightly. I switched back to my normal deodorants.”
HS, also known as acne inversa, causes lesions (wounds) to form on the areas of the body where sweat glands are found. This includes the armpits. Scars and lesions under the arms make using deodorant difficult for many myHSteam members.
Members often worry that antiperspirant or deodorant products will irritate scars or trigger additional flare-ups under their arms. “I started having flare-ups in my armpits a few years back and have found no relief for that area at all,” a member wrote. Another member commented, “I can’t use anything! Not being able to use deodorant during the summer is awful and causes more flare-ups.”
The search for deodorants that work for HS can be discouraging. “I’ve tried so many lotions, soaps, and deodorants. Nothing has ever helped. I feel stuck in misery,” a member shared.
Through trial and error, some members have found products that have helped their HS symptoms or prevented skin irritation. Following are some of their recommendations — as well as tips from doctors — for choosing deodorants and antiperspirants.
Consult your dermatologist before using any new skin care products. Some ingredients may not be suited to your needs. Keep in mind that you should not use deodorant on open wounds or lesions.
Before choosing a deodorant, it’s important to understand what is in the product. Two basic types of products are generally referred to as deodorants: deodorants, which mask body odor, and antiperspirants, which reduce sweating and help keep the underarms dry. Because deodorants do not affect the skin’s function, they are considered cosmetic products. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, are classified as drugs. As a result, they are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The FDA has identified four types of ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions:
The following ingredients found in many are some of the most commonly reported to cause skin irritation.
Aluminum is used in many cosmetic products and drugs. In antiperspirants, in particular, aluminum salts are used to block the pores of the underarms and prevent sweat from escaping. This is what keeps your underarms dry.
In some people, aluminum can lead to allergic reactions (contact dermatitis). Many myHSteam members say that they avoid aluminum-based products to help prevent irritation. “I find deodorant that is aluminum-free,” wrote one member. “Arm & Hammer makes one.” Another member shared that they use a mild deodorant with coconut oil and charcoal. “The skin in my underarms is actually clearer. NO aluminum or antiperspirant,” they said.
One member offered the following recommendations: “Native Deodorant, Kiss My Face, and Pretty Frank … all offer natural, aluminum-free options that are better for our HS skin. They are more expensive (about twice as much as a Dove or Secret stick). It also doesn’t work in quite the same way … so at first, you are definitely a little bit stinky, but that subsides a great deal.”
Parabens are used in cosmetic products as preservatives. They help prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeast on deodorant. These preservatives have been known to cause irritation and allergic rashes in some people.
Some types of alcohol may be used as fragrances in deodorants and antiperspirants. Like aluminum and parabens, alcohol-based artificial fragrances can cause allergic reactions. In fact, a study from 2011 found that one-quarter of those who had allergies to cosmetic fragrances had been triggered by the fragrances found in deodorants. You may find that fragrance-free or unscented deodorants help prevent flare-ups and irritation.
Although natural ingredients may seem harmless, they can be irritating to some people. Ingredients like baking soda, essential oils, and talc are potential irritants. Baking soda, in particular, is a common odor neutralizer that can cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Sprays, gels, solid sticks — there are many different formulas available for antiperspirants and deodorants. Though the ingredients in your deodorant are what’s most important, some people with HS find that they prefer certain formulations for irritated skin.
“I finally began using Arrid, a solid stick, and it has been working wonders,” shared one member. “My armpits smell a lot less and flare up a lot less than before when I was using roll-on deodorants. It’s the ONLY thing I can use that helps me (besides staying stress-free).” Another member wrote that they “use Dove solid stick. Can’t use gel — it makes my skin mad.”
Some members find that antibacterial or antiseptic properties help keep irritation at bay. “Antibiotic Mitchum is what I used to use to keep from irritating my boils under the arm,” one member shared. Another wrote that they use antibacterial soap alongside their deodorant: “I like Lume deodorant. It works well, but it isn’t perfect at controlling odor. I wash with Dial antibacterial soap throughout the day, as well. I don’t apply deodorant to open sores, though. Maybe just apply it outside the sore and cover it with a Band-Aid? That’s what I do.”
Some members of myHSteam skip deodorant entirely and opt for alternative methods to control sweating or odor. “I carry flushable wipes and wipe my underarms throughout the day,” a member explained. Another member wrote that they “don’t use deodorant anymore. My armpits have had so many surgeries, I don’t sweat there anymore.” They noted that when they did wear deodorant, they opted for aluminum- and paraben-free products.
Living with HS has plenty of challenges. It can help to have a team that understands by your side. On myHSteam, the social network for those with hidradenitis suppurativa and their loved ones, members from around the globe come together to swap tips, offer advice, and connect with others who understand life with HS.
What deodorant do you use with HS? Share your recommendations in the comments below or by posting on myHSteam.
Ariel D. Teitel, M.D., M.B.A. is the clinical associate professor of medicine at the NYU Langone Medical Center in New York. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Learn more about him here.
Victoria Menard is a writer at MyHealthTeam. Learn more about her here.
