What it is and what it is for?
For the purpose of regulating body temperature, the human body produces and releases perspiration. This perspiration accumulates in certain areas of the body, such as the armpits and feet. Over time, the accumulated sweat is attacked by fungi and bacteria causing unpleasant odors. Thus, to combat these odors, deodorants and antiperspirants were developed.
Deodorants have the main function of preventing the increase of bacteria responsible for bad odor.
On the other hand, antiperspirants contain ingredients that reduce sweating, combating the same problem with a different approach.
What are the most used ingredients and their function?
Deodorants are usually formulated with antibacterial ingredients, however there are some that predominate, such as:
Zinc oxide, a very versatile ingredient that can be found in sunscreens, but also has microbial properties, that is, it has the ability to kill bacteria. The main odor-causing bacteria are Staphylococcus spp and Corynebacterium, and zinc oxide is effective against both.
Clay, which due to its soothing and absorbent properties, is able to calm irritated armpits. Due to being very absorbent, the clay still has the ability to retain the released body oils.
Antiperspirants have aluminum compounds as their main ingredients, usually found in the form of salts. These salts create a membrane over the pores, preventing the release of sweat.
Which types exist and what are their differences?
eodorants and antiperspirants are products that have several types of formats to provide different sensations.
Stick, which can be more solid or with a more gel-like texture, provides a drier and smoother application, just like Dry-Form Antiperspirant Deodorant by Clinique.
In roll-on, which is fast and uniform to apply, for example Déodorant Minéral 48h by Vichy and Sensitive Force Anti-Transpirant 48H by Biotherm.
In cream, which contains substances that moisturize and soften the skin, being the most suitable for sensitive skin. This care must be applied carefully and with well washed hands. As references we have Multi-Active Deodorant 24h Cream by Collistar and Hidrosis Control Antiperspirant Cream by Ducray.
What is the most used packaging format and what are the most frequent sizes?
The packages of deodorants and antiperspirants vary in order to facilitate the application of the different types that exist.
On stick, the available packaging resembles the packaging of a lipstick and their quantities vary between 40gr and 75gr.
The roll-on has a bottle packaging with a ball applicator that provides an easy and quick application. Their sizes vary between 20ml and 75ml, with 50ml being the most common size.
The creams have a tube-shaped packaging to facilitate dosing and their size can vary between 50ml and 75ml.
What to take into account when choosing a deodorant/antiperspirant?
If the goal is not to reduce the volume of sweat, but to eliminate bad odors, the best option is to opt for a deodorant, as this will prevent the formation of odors without inhibiting the body's perspiration.
If the goal is to prevent excessive sweating, the ideal is to opt for an antiperspirant as it will prevent sweat from being released, but as they also contain deodorant compounds, although in less concentration, it will prevent bad odors.
If you prefer a more delicate and moisturizing texture, the ideal is to opt for a cream, which in addition to its protective effect also moisturizes the skin.
If you choose a roll-on you will be guaranteed a uniform and precise application.
What are the recommendations for use and tips?
There are some tips that can improve the effectiveness of a deodorant / antiperspirant, helping to maintain a lasting and more effective effect.
Apply deodorant / antiperspirant every day in the morning, that way prepare your armpit for the rest of the day.
To avoid stains on the clothes, there must be sometime between the application of the deodorant and the moment when you dress.
What are the pros and cons of using a deodorant/antiperspirant?
The use of deodorant has the main advantage of removing bad odors, while also guaranteeing a refreshing aroma.
Antiperspirants greatly reduce the amount of sweat released, however we must be careful because due to the aluminum compounds they tend to dye the garment with a yellow color.
The composition of the product should always be checked as it may contain ingredients that cause irritation or allergies.
