The best brightening deodorants for treating odor and hyperpigmentation

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Finding an effective deodorant that works for your skin can be a challenge in and of itself, but fading underarm hyperpigmentation is a whole other obstacle. Luckily, you don’t have to look far for a remedy — a brightening deodorant may be just what you need. “A brightening deodorant is a deodorant that not only helps control odor but also contains ingredients designed to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and underarm discoloration over time,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick , a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.

I spoke to Dr. Garshick to find out everything you need to know about brightening deodorants, including key ingredients, product recommendations, and tips on how to shop for one of your own.

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The list below includes a range of stick/solid, serum and gel brightening deodorants and antiperspirants, all of which are either recommended by Garshick or are highly-rated bestsellers aligned with her guidance.

Dove makes some of our editors’ favorite deodorants, and Garshick recommends this sensitive skin-friendly formula for its effective sweat and odor protection and use of niacinamide , which can help visibly improve uneven tone while still supporting the skin barrier. “It also contains Dove’s moisturizing ingredients, making it a great choice for those who experience dryness or irritation from shaving,” she says.

This clear, gel version of Necessaire’s popular deodorant is fast-drying and includes 5% AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) to help minimize odor and discoloration, according to the brand. Niacinamide and chamomile extract also help to soothe the skin and maintain the skin’s barrier , along with smoothing bumps and texture along your skin. The gel is also non-sticky and stain-free, according to reviewers, and has a 4.1-star rating from 1,251 reviews on Amazon.

This deodorant includes gentle exfoliants like lactic acid and mandelic acid, which Garshick says can also help reduce odor-causing bacteria. It also contains shikimic acid, which she says acts as a natural deodorizer, along with hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. The acids also help to reduce the appearance of ingrown hairs that may crop up after shaving .