When the warm weather arrives, it can bring sweltering temperatures, and with it comes murky pits, odorous feet — or, worst of all, swamp crotch. Even if it's the middle of the winter, those can be issues for men who workout on a consistent basis or simply sweat more than the average guy. The bacteria and fungus that accumulate in your sweat-ridden crevices can yield an unpleasant odor that leaves you feeling unclean and even more so, uncomfortable. Of course, you can wick a bar of deodorant under your arms and be good to go, but what can you do about the other sweaty (and more delicate) parts of your body?
Enter body powder, also known as talcum powder (although several formulas on the market now are talc-free). Body powder absorbs moisture, reduces odor, and eliminates chafing so you never have to worry about the pains of upper leg chafing.
There are lots of men's body powders out there, so how do you know which one to go for? We've done most of the heavy lifting for you and put together a list of the five best body powders for men to help you feel cool and comfortable all year long.
Brickell Stay Fresh Body Powder
Maybe the best overall powders you can get, this perfect option from Brickell does it all. One of the worst feelings in the world is starting to get that hot, chafing feeling mid, or post, workout. Brickell makes sure that doesn't happen as it does wonders in helping to soothe and calm sensitive skin. This talc-free version also features provitamin B5 and aloe vera, to help you stay protected all day long.
Clubman Pinaud Powder
Pinaud Clubman's world-famous men's body powder has been around since 1810 and has become a barbershop staple since. Enjoy that fresh-from-the-barber feeling after a shower or heated workout session, no matter where you are. With a blend of cornstarch, zinc oxide, and kaolin, your skin will be dry, smooth, and free from irritation. Oh, and you'll emit that signature Pinaud Clubman scent, too.
Chassis Premium Ice Max Body Powder
When temps reach triple digits and you feel like you're sitting in a swamp, you'll want to experience the intense cooling sensation of the Chassis Premium Ice Max body powder. Its Hydro-Shield technology reduces chafing and eliminates odor. There is a scent, but it's slight so it won't overpower your cologne or aftershave. If you keep a close eye on ingredients, know that this body powder is free from talc, aluminum, and parabens.
Dry Goods Athletic Spray Powder
Perhaps you've flirted with the idea of using talc after your workouts but just couldn't fathom making a cloudy mess in the locker room. Fortunately, Dry Goods makes a mess-free sprayable body powder. Simply use the 360-degree spray valve to point and shoot at the areas that need a refresh ASAP. (It is known to dispense quickly so be careful, especially when targeting below the belt.) Although this spray is made with athletes in mind, it's also handy enough to bring on the road for a quick hit of freshness when you need it.
Original Anti Monkey Butt Powder
Monkey Butt is a comical term for a red, irritated butt that's caused by sweating, fabric, and friction. Whether you ride a motorcycle or an electric bike, chances are you've encountered this unpleasant backside feeling at least once. Monkey Butt Powder is formulated with calamine, which is known for its soothing anti-itch properties. Dust some Monkey Butt Powder in your drawers for your next bike ride or if you'll just be sitting in one place for hours on end. Either way, you'll be sitting pretty (fresh).
Frequently Asked Questions
The frequency of using body powder depends on several factors, including your individual needs, climate, and the type of body powder you're using.
As such, moderation is key, so avoid using body powder daily, especially over large areas of your skin. Overuse can disrupt the natural balance of your skin's microbiome and potentially lead to irritation or other issues. Instead, focus on areas prone to moisture that get sweaty or chafed, like your underarms, groin, and feet.
Also, consider the climate when deciding how often to use body powder. In hot and humid climates, you might need body powder more often to absorb sweat and prevent chafing. However, be mindful of overusing it, as the trapped moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
Regardless if its the middle of a hot and humid summer, or the middle of a cold winter, arm yourself with these best body powders to help you keep chafing at bay.
