Disclosed are topical compositions which comprise from about 0.01% to about 60% by weight of an antiperspirant and/or deodorant active; from about 1% to about 60% by weight of a volatile, nonpolar hydrocarbon liquid having a solubility parameter of less than about 7.5 (cal/cm.sup.3).sup.0.5 and a vapor pressure as measured at 25.degree. C. of from about 0.01 mmHg to about 6.0 mmHg; and from about 1% to about 60% by weight of a skin irritation-mitigating material having a vapor pressure equal to or less than that of the volatile, nonpolar hydrocarbon liquid, preferably a silicone-containing liquid; wherein the weight ratio of the volatile, nonpolar hydrocarbon liquid to the mitigating material is from about 5:1 to about 1:50. It has been found that the volatile, nonpolar hydrocarbon liquid as defined herein can cause skin irritation when used in an antiperspirant or deodorant composition, even when used at relatively low concentrations, but that the skin irritation can be reduced or eliminated by the addition of a skin irritation-mitigating material, provided the material has the requisite vapor pressure and weight ratio relative to the volatile, nonpolar hydrocarbon liquid.