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Hands up – who else is doing a discreet sniff of the ol’ pits to check for whiffs now our hormones are haywire? WHY did no-one warn us that perimenopause might come with a distinct new aroma? That moment when peri really hits and you get that little whiff yourself and start tracking back to our last shower (and even if it was this morning, we’ve probably forgotten anyway). Of course not! It’s just another delight in the hormonal lucky dip that is perimenopause.
At any time of hormonal fluctuation – during our period, and after having a baby or breastfeeding, as well as menopause – we can experience an increase in body odour. And let’s be honest, it can make us pretty self-conscious, too.
Luckily we aren’t alone, and our wonderful MOLOs recently shared their favourite brands for managing the peri-stink and keeping hormonal BO at bay. And of course, as ever, they delivered. Here are seven recommendations that really hold up (and hold in), whether you’re sprinting through soft play or just trying to survive a hot flush on the school run.
1. Mitchum Roll-On or Stick
The MVP of peri pits. Loads of MOLOs swore by Mitchum deodrant stick especially – especially the solid stick or roll-on – for long-lasting protection. It’s affordable, easy to grab in the supermarket, and actually works under hormonal pressure. As Laura said: “It’s holding out so far!” And honestly, in this phase of life, that’s high praise.
2. Driclor
Not a daily deodorant, but a powerful treatment if your underarms are behaving like a pair of busted radiators. Driclor works overnight to stop excessive sweating at the source. A few nights of use can keep you dry for days. Think of it as pit therapy — just don’t forget to moisturise after.
https://www.boots.com/driclor-solution-roll-on-applicator
3. Glycolic Acid (yep, for your pits)
Not technically a deodorant, but a total game-changer. Amy suggested swiping a bit of glycolic acid (like The Ordinary’s or Pixi Glow Tonic) under each arm with a cotton pad. It kills off the bacteria that cause smell in the first place. Cheap, cheerful, and surprisingly effective – like us, naturally.
https://theordinary.com/en-gb/glycolic-acid-7-exfoliating-toner-100418.html
4. Wild Natural Deodorant
Refillable, natural and stylish. Wild natural deodrant is a cult fave for a reason. It doesn’t contain aluminium or parabens, and Caroline – who swore by Wild, even with a super physical job – said it’s the only thing that keeps her sweet from morning to night. Pricey, yes, but totally worth it. Bonus points: it looks lovely on your bathroom shelf.
5. Fussy Deodorant
Another natural option, but with a bit of extra sass. You might have seen them on Dragon’s Den too. Fussy is refillable, vegan, and designed with minimal waste in mind. It smells lush, doesn’t leave white marks, and has serious staying power – all while looking the part. It’s another cool, stylish option, for sure. Fussy natural deodrant is ideal for peri pits that want a little pampering.
6. Estrid Deodorant
From the same team who make our favourite razors, Estrid’s deodorant is sleek, gentle, and perfect for sensitive underarms. It’s aluminium-free and cruelty-free, with soft, Scandi vibes that just feel calm — even if you’re not. It’s not the strongest on this list, but great for everyday freshness with a bit of style.
7. Perspirex Extra Strength Roll-On
This one’s the nuclear option — and it works. Perspirex medical anti-perspirant deodrant offers up to five days of sweat and odour protection, making it perfect for holidays, work events or just surviving a heatwave with your dignity intact. A word of warning: do not use it right after shaving unless you fancy crying in the bathroom. Think burn, and then some. Ouch!
