Deodorant compositions are disclosed comprising a cross-adapting agent, alone or in combination with other such agents, in an amount effective to reduce perception of malodor. Deodorant compositions are also disclosed comprising a cross-adapting agent, alone or in combination with other such agents, in an amount effective to reduce perception of gender-specific malodor. The methods feature reducing perceived body odor comprising administering a deodorant composition wherein the composition comprises an amount of cross-adapting agent effective to reduce perception of such odor. Other methods feature blocking perceived body odor comprising administering a deodorant composition wherein the composition comprises an amount of cross-adapting agent effective to occupy an odorant receptor site, thereby blocking interaction of the site with other odorants. Methods of making deodorant compositions are also provided wherein a cross-adapting agent, alone or in combination with other such agents, are included in an amount effective to reduce perception of malodor.