Deodorant versus Antiperspirant

All of us use deodorants and antiperspirants without giving it a second thought. But did you know they’re not the same? Know what they actually and choose the right product for yourself.

By Mdhil

Most of us buy deodorants and antiperspirants without giving it a second thought. If the brand and the fragrance catches our fancy, we pick it up. But the truth is deodorants and antiperspirants are made for two entirely different purposes.

Deodorants and antiperspirants: The basics

What is body odour anyway? Most of us incorrectly assume that it’s the sweat which smells bad. So, what does sweat consist of? It is almost 60 percent fluid, most of it water. Sweat also contains other compounds like ammonia, potassium, sodium, calcium etc. It’s the presence of these compounds that makes sweat taste salty or your eyes burn when you accidently rub them with sweaty hands. But the presence of these minerals doesn’t contribute to your body odour.

In reality, your sweat is odourless. It however, does offer a warm and moist environment for bacteria to multiply. It is this bacteria that causes the stench.

Deodorants are primarily used to mask or neutralize body odour whereas antiperspirants contain chemicals that reduce the production of sweat. Most antiperspirant also contains deodorant which may be why many use deodorants and antiperspirants interchangeably.

What do deodorants and antiperspirants contain?

Deodorants mostly contain compounds which are fragrant and to some extent, bacteria inhibiting. Antiperspirants on the other hand additionally contain aluminium based chemicals which enables antiperspirants to block sweat production.

The aluminium compound is absorbed by the skin cells and temporarily acts as a plug, blocking sweat from appearing on the surface.

Cancer and antiperspirants

Though a lot has been said about antiperspirants being carcinogenic in nature, there has been no conclusive scientific proof in its favour. However, a number of doctors will tell you that the aluminium salts used in antiperspirants can get absorbed into the breast tissue and may cause breast cancer.

An experts’ tips

Our in house expert, Dr Juvita gave us some tips.

·         Go easy on the deodorant whenever possible. Too much deodorant can irritate the skin and can also be disturbing to others.

·         Do not apply deodorant to a wet area and wait for a minute before putting on clothing when applying a roll-on type of deodorant.

·         Anti-Perspirants are a better option for those who sweat profusely and can also be used as an alternative to deodorants when working out.

Natural alternatives

There are natural alternatives you could use to neutralize body odour.

·         Vinegar is especially effective for underarm odour.

·         Adding a teaspoon epsom salt to your bath water.

·         Using antibacterial soaps.

·         Wash up regularly; paying special attention to areas you perspire from.

·         Baking soda or talcum powder is an effective replacement for an antiperspirant.

As summer reaches its peak, deodorants and antiperspirants are only going to be used more. The least we can do is make smart choices about the products we use on our body.

Reviewed by Dr.Juvita Rasquinha.

Source: Deodorant versus Antiperspirant