There are a lot of lingering questions about deodorants, like how they work and why we have issues with certain ones. Are some brands better than others? Is there a difference between antiperspirant and deodorant? Are they safe? We’ll address a variety of these questions in this blog post, starting with why we need these items.
Why do we sweat?
Sweating is the body’s natural way of cooling down. Although no one really likes to sweat, it’s perfectly normal. We sweat when we’re hot, then moisture evaporates and cools us off, bringing the body down to its normal temperature.
What’s the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant?
It’s safe to say a majority of people use deodorant to get rid of body odor that can create a very potent stench after a while. What people may not realize is there is a difference between antiperspirants and deodorants and that there are specific uses for each.
If your goal is to control odor, use a deodorant. But to control excessive sweating, consider a topical antiperspirant.
But what’s the difference? Antiperspirants contain aluminum salts that help reduce the formation and flow of sweat from the glands to the skin surface. Deodorants, on the other hand, help prevent the odor that is caused by bacteria in the armpit.
Which should I use: antiperspirant or deodorant?
Based on your personal needs with regard to how much you sweat, you can decide whether deodorant or antiperspirant is best for you. And finding the right one for you may require trying a few different ones.
Some people may notice white clumping under the armpit with certain brands. This can be the result of several factors, one of which is a reaction some products have to certain amounts of sweat. Unfortunately there is no standard to gauge how much sweat a certain brand can handle, which is where trial and error comes in. But if you seem to have this issue with many solid brands, consider a gel or spray-on deodorant that is less likely to clump.
Are all deodorants and antiperspirants safe?
Some people who use antiperspirants with aluminum-based ingredients may absorb those chemicals in their skin, especially if they apply it after shaving (when there may be small nicks in the skin). Studies suggest that chemicals can also be absorbed when the pores of the skin are open, usually after a hot shower. You have a few options for avoiding the worry of potential health problems that may be a result of this absorption.
- Make your own all-natural, organic deodorant that does not contain aluminum.
- Use shaving cream or a moisturizer and shave with the grain of the hair. Using shorter strokes and rinsing after each stroke will help eliminate razor burns and cuts.
- Alternate between cold and warm water in the shower to keep the blood flowing and leave less time for the pores to fully open.
No matter what your hygiene needs are when it comes to deodorants and antiperspirants, a lot of it is just trial and error. Take a look at the ingredients on the packages, smell them and take some home to try before you decide which work best for you. Also, think about changing it up every few months so you’re body doesn’t become immune to your favorite product.
Got any questions we didn’t address here? Call 901-759-2322 or request an appointment online today!