Deodorant or antiperspirant Tips for choosing the best one for your body in the summer heat

In summer, with rising temperatures and increased sweating, you need an effective product that protects you from unpleasant odors and keeps you feeling fresh all day. But the question is: do you need a deodorant or an antiperspirant? While both help in managing sweat, each works differently and offers its own unique benefits. In this Daily Medical guide, we’ll reveal the difference between the two and help you choose the best option for your skin during the hot summer months. Keep reading to find out which one suits you best!

What’s Better: Deodorant or Antiperspirant?

Choosing between a deodorant and an antiperspirant largely depends on your personal needs and preferences. Each product has different properties, so you should choose the one that suits you based on your skin type and the level of sweating you experience.

Why Do Some People Prefer Using Deodorant Over Antiperspirant?

Deodorant focuses on masking the unpleasant odors caused by sweating, helping you feel fresh throughout the day. On the other hand, antiperspirant works by blocking sweat glands, reducing sweating and preventing unpleasant odors from forming.

What’s the Ideal Aluminum Percentage in Antiperspirants?

If you’re looking for an effective antiperspirant for excessive sweating, it’s recommended to use products that contain 10% to 15% aluminum chloride (hexahydrate). This concentration is effective in controlling excessive perspiration.

Should You Use Deodorant and Antiperspirant Together?

The answer is: no, it’s not necessary to use them together. You can choose the product that suits your needs. However, in certain cases, such as excessive sweating, combining both products might be beneficial for better results. For example:

Deodorant alone helps reduce odor caused by sweat, but doesn’t reduce the amount of perspiration.
Antiperspirant focuses on blocking sweat by closing the sweat glands, which helps keep the area dry for a longer time.

Can You Use Deodorant and Antiperspirant Together?

Yes, in some cases, you can use both deodorant and antiperspirant together. If you experience excessive sweating and want to mask odors, using them together can provide comprehensive protection. However, make sure your skin can handle this combination to avoid irritation.

How to Use Them:

First, apply the antiperspirant to reduce sweating.
Once the antiperspirant dries, apply deodorant to ensure odor protection.

Choosing the Right Product for You:

If you only suffer from body odor but don’t have issues with excessive sweating, deodorant alone will suffice.
If you experience excessive sweating and want to keep your body dry for longer, antiperspirant will be the best choice.
If you need complete protection from both sweating and odor, you can look for products that combine deodorant and antiperspirant in one.

What Are Safe Deodorants?

When looking for safe deodorants, it's best to choose products that contain natural ingredients, free of aluminum, parabens, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances. These products are gentle on the skin and less likely to cause irritation. Some popular brands offering safe deodorants include La Roche-Posay and Vichy.

What Is Deodorant?

Deodorant is a product used to eliminate body odor caused by sweating. The ingredients in deodorants work by killing or reducing the growth of bacteria that cause these odors, giving you a fresh feeling throughout the day. When you use deodorant, the surface of the skin becomes more acidic, making it less attractive to bacteria and reducing the formation of unpleasant odors. It’s important to note that deodorant doesn’t stop sweating itself; it only focuses on masking odors.

Some deodorants also contain fragrances to provide a fresh scent.

Common Ingredients in Deodorants:

Deodorants contain several key ingredients that work together to eliminate odors and provide effective results:

Antibacterial Agents:
- Triclosan: An antibacterial substance used to limit the growth of bacteria that cause odors. However, there are concerns about its safety.
- Aluminum Chlorohydrate: Used in some deodorants (in low amounts) to reduce bacterial growth. However, it’s more common in antiperspirants.
Fragrances:
Fragrances are added to give the product a fresh scent. Some deodorants contain natural essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil, while others may contain synthetic fragrances.
Ethanol Alcohol:
Used as a disinfectant and antibacterial agent. It also helps the skin dry quickly after application but may cause dryness with frequent use.
Propylene Glycol:
A moisturizing agent that helps improve product absorption into the skin, making it more effective at eliminating odors.
Aluminum Compounds:
Some deodorants may contain aluminum compounds like aluminum chloride to reduce sweating by blocking sweat glands. However, these compounds are usually found in lower concentrations in deodorants compared to antiperspirants.
Glycerin:
A moisturizer that helps keep the skin hydrated and prevents dryness that some other ingredients may cause.
Citric Acid:
Used to adjust the pH of the product, helping maintain stability and prevent bacterial growth.
Carbomer:
Helps increase the viscosity of the product, making it easier to apply and acting as a stabilizer.
Polysorbate 20:
An emulsifier that helps blend the oily and watery components of the product together smoothly.
Herbal Extracts and Natural Ingredients:
Some deodorants contain natural ingredients like green tea extract, lavender oil, and tea tree oil, which enhance antibacterial properties and provide a fresh scent.
Silica:
Silica particles help absorb moisture and keep the skin dry.
Plant Oils:
Such as coconut oil or almond oil, which provide additional moisture to the skin and reduce irritation caused by some other ingredients.

What is an Antiperspirant?

An antiperspirant is a product used to temporarily reduce perspiration. It works by blocking the sweat glands in the skin, which reduces the amount of sweat in the treated area. This prevents the buildup of sweat and the unpleasant odors caused by bacterial growth.

Antiperspirants are ideal for people who suffer from excessive sweating. When used, the aluminum compounds in the product are absorbed into the sweat glands, temporarily preventing sweat from being released. After a while, once the moisture level inside and outside the glands balances, the sweating process resumes. Antiperspirants can also be used on other areas of the body, such as the hands or feet, if they experience excessive sweating.

Antiperspirants typically contain moisturizing agents to keep the skin soft, along with some fragrances to provide a fresh scent, but they may cause irritation for sensitive skin.

Common Ingredients in Antiperspirants

Antiperspirants contain a variety of ingredients that work together to prevent sweating and provide long-lasting comfort. Here are the most common ingredients:

Aluminum Compounds:
- Aluminum Chloride: This is one of the key compounds used in antiperspirants. It temporarily blocks the sweat glands, reducing perspiration.
- Aluminum Chlorohydrate: Commonly used to reduce sweat for an extended period.
- Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly: Another compound that blocks sweat glands and is believed to be effective for longer periods.
Alcohol:
- Ethanol: Added for multiple purposes, including cooling and disinfecting the skin. It helps the skin dry quickly after application but may cause dryness or irritation for sensitive skin.
Antibacterial Agents:
- Triclosan: An antibacterial ingredient used to prevent the growth of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors.
- Tea Tree Oil: A natural ingredient with antibacterial and antifungal properties, commonly found in natural antiperspirants.
Moisturizing Ingredients:
- Glycerin: Acts as a moisturizer, preventing the dryness that antiperspirants can sometimes cause.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Used to maintain skin hydration, reducing irritation that other ingredients might cause.
Fragrances:
- Essential Oils or Synthetic Fragrances: Added to provide a fresh scent and help mask unwanted odors caused by sweating.
Silica:
- Used in some antiperspirants to absorb moisture and keep the skin dry, preventing sweat buildup in the treated areas.
pH Stabilizing Ingredients:
- Citric Acid: Helps adjust the pH of the product, contributing to the stability of the ingredients and maintaining skin health.
Plant Oils:
- Coconut Oil: Acts as a moisturizer and provides smoothness to the skin.
- Almond Oil: Used for additional hydration and nourishment for the skin.
Carbomer:
- Used to increase the viscosity of the product, ensuring it stays on the skin, which helps with easier application and enhances effectiveness.
Polysorbate:
- An emulsifier used to blend the oily and watery components of the product together smoothly, ensuring a balanced formulation.
Amino Acids:
- Some antiperspirants contain amino acids that nourish the skin and improve its elasticity, reducing irritation that other ingredients may cause.

Benefits of Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Deodorants and antiperspirants are products used to reduce the odors caused by sweating, but they serve different functions. Here's a comparison of the key benefits of each:

1. Deodorant:

Reduces odor: It contains antibacterial agents or fragrances that prevent the growth of bacteria responsible for unpleasant odors.
Provides a fresh scent: Some deodorants contain fragrances that make the body smell fresh for a longer time.
Gentle on the skin: Some varieties contain moisturizing ingredients that protect the skin from dryness and irritation.

2. Antiperspirant:

Reduces perspiration: Contains ingredients like aluminum compounds that temporarily block the sweat glands, reducing sweat secretion.
Keeps the skin dry: By reducing perspiration, it helps keep the area dry throughout the day.
Provides long-lasting protection: The effect of antiperspirants lasts for a long time, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.

Difference Between Deodorant and Antiperspirant

How to Distinguish Between Them:

Main Ingredients:
- Deodorant: Relies on antibacterial agents or fragrances to eliminate unpleasant smells caused by sweating, such as alcohol and essential oils.
- Antiperspirant: Contains aluminum salts (such as Aluminum Chloride) that block pores and prevent sweat from being released.
Primary Function:
- Deodorant: Focuses solely on fighting odor without affecting perspiration itself. It works by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
- Antiperspirant: Reduces perspiration by blocking the sweat glands, thus temporarily preventing sweating and reducing odor.
Effect on the Skin:
- Deodorant: Does not affect the perspiration process but may cause irritation for sensitive skin due to fragrances or alcohol.
- Antiperspirant: May cause pore blockage or irritation if overused. It could also cause discoloration in areas like the underarms due to the accumulation of aluminum.
Duration of Effectiveness:
- Deodorant: Protects against odors for a certain period but does not prevent perspiration. You may need to reapply multiple times throughout the day.
- Antiperspirant: Remains effective for longer periods (24 to 48 hours) by reducing perspiration and preventing the body from becoming damp.
Type of Use:
- Deodorant: Preferred if you just want to eliminate odor without needing to stop perspiration.
- Antiperspirant: Ideal if you suffer from excessive sweating and need to reduce sweat in specific areas of your body.

The Key Difference Between Them:

Deodorant focuses only on eliminating the odor caused by perspiration, while antiperspirant works to prevent perspiration itself and also reduces odor.

How to Choose Between Deodorant or Antiperspirant

Choosing the right product between deodorant and antiperspirant depends on your personal needs and lifestyle. Here are some points to help you make the right decision:

If You Want to Reduce Odor Only:
- Deodorant is the best option if you don’t suffer from excessive sweating but need protection from odor.
- Deodorants typically contain antibacterial agents or fragrances that provide a fresh scent and reduce bacterial growth.
If You Suffer from Excessive Sweating:
- Antiperspirant is best if you experience excessive perspiration, whether during exercise or in hot weather.
- Antiperspirants contain aluminum compounds that help reduce the amount of sweat produced by sweat glands.
If Your Skin is Sensitive:
- Deodorant might be the best choice if you have sensitive skin, as it typically doesn't contain aluminum or other ingredients that may irritate the skin.
- If you are sensitive to some ingredients in antiperspirants, such as aluminum or synthetic fragrances, deodorant would be a gentler alternative.
If You Need All-Day Protection:
- Antiperspirant provides longer protection against sweating, meaning you'll stay dry and comfortable for longer periods.
- If you will remain active for a long time or are exposed to extreme heat, antiperspirant will be more effective at keeping you dry.
If You Prefer Natural Products:
- If you prefer using products free from chemicals, you can look for natural deodorants containing organic ingredients that are gentle on the skin.
If You Need to Prevent Sweating in Specific Areas:
- Antiperspirants focus more on blocking perspiration in specific areas like the underarms or hands.
- If you experience excessive sweating in targeted areas, antiperspirant is the most suitable option.

Side Effects of Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Despite the many benefits of deodorants and antiperspirants, there are some side effects that may occur when used excessively or incorrectly. Here are the most common side effects:

1. Skin Irritation:

Irritation and Itching: Some people may experience irritation or itching after using deodorants or antiperspirants, especially if they contain chemicals such as alcohol or fragrances.
Redness: Certain ingredients, like aluminum in antiperspirants, may cause redness, particularly if the skin is sensitive or if the product is applied after shaving.

2. Pore Blockage:

Antiperspirants contain compounds like aluminum that can block sweat glands. This can lead to the accumulation of toxins, or the development of pimples or breakouts.

3. Allergic Reactions:

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to ingredients in deodorants or antiperspirants, such as fragrances or preservatives. This may appear as a rash, swelling, or irritation.

4. Skin Infection or Contamination:

If deodorant or antiperspirant is applied to contaminated or irritated skin, it may lead to bacterial or fungal infections. Blocked pores can also lead to abscesses or pimples in some cases.

5. Skin Discoloration:

Some ingredients in these products, such as aluminum in antiperspirants, may cause skin discoloration in areas like the underarms, darkening the skin due to the interaction between the ingredients and sweat.

6. Interactions with Medications:

In rare cases, deodorants or antiperspirants may interact with medications you’re taking, increasing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. It's important to carefully read the ingredients if you're on any specific medications.

7. Long-Term Health Effects:

There are concerns about using aluminum in antiperspirants for extended periods. Some researchers believe it may be linked to health issues like breast cancer or Alzheimer's disease. However, scientific studies are still inconclusive on this matter.

8. Stains on Clothing:

Some types of deodorants or antiperspirants may leave yellow stains on clothes due to the interaction of aluminum with sweat. These stains can be difficult to remove.

Natural Alternatives to Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Looking for natural alternatives to chemical deodorants and antiperspirants? Here are some natural ingredients that can help you maintain a fresh scent and dryness throughout the day without affecting your skin's health:

1. Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

How it works: Absorbs moisture and prevents the growth of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors.
How to use: Mix it with water, coconut oil, or lemon juice to create a paste and rub it under your armpits.

2. Cornstarch

How it works: Absorbs moisture and helps keep the skin dry while reducing irritation in sensitive areas.
How to use: You can use it alone or mix it with baking soda for better results.

3. Coconut Oil

How it works: Contains antibacterial and moisturizing properties, which help reduce odor and keep the skin hydrated.
How to use: Apply coconut oil directly under the armpits for a natural scent and a smooth feeling.

4. Tea Tree Oil

How it works: Has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
How to use: Mix it with coconut oil or water and use it as a natural spray to fight odors.

5. Lemon Juice

How it works: Contains citric acid that helps kill bacteria and prevent odor, and has an astringent effect that reduces sweating.
How to use: Rub a lemon slice directly under your armpits or mix the juice with rose water and use it as a natural spray.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

How it works: Contains antibacterial properties and helps regulate the skin's pH, reducing odors caused by sweating.
How to use: Mix apple cider vinegar with water and use it as a natural spray or apply it directly under your armpits.

7. Lavender Oil

How it works: Has a fresh scent and antibacterial properties, and helps soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
How to use: Mix it with coconut oil or olive oil and use it as a natural deodorant.

8. Other Essential Oils

How it works: Essential oils like rosemary, lemon, and mint all help fight bacteria and provide a refreshing scent, with their invigorating properties reducing unpleasant odors.
How to use: Mix these oils with a carrier oil (like coconut oil or olive oil) and apply directly to the skin.

9. Aloe Vera (Aloe Gel)

How it works: Has moisturizing and soothing properties, making it ideal for those who experience skin irritation after sweating. It also has antibacterial properties.
How to use: Apply aloe gel directly to the skin or mix it with tea tree oil for enhanced effectiveness.

10. Vegetable Oils (Such as Olive Oil or Almond Oil)

How it works: These oils contain moisturizing and antibacterial properties, helping to keep the skin healthy and preventing irritation.
How to use: Apply olive or almond oil directly under the armpits after a shower to maintain skin hydration.

11. Arrowroot Powder

How it works: A gentle alternative to cornstarch, it helps absorb moisture and prevent excessive sweating.
How to use: Mix arrowroot powder with coconut oil or baking soda and use it as a natural deodorant.

Tips for Correctly Using Deodorants and Antiperspirants

Want to use deodorants and antiperspirants correctly for the best results? Here are some important tips to help you maintain healthy skin and achieve the desired effectiveness:

Ensure Skin is Clean
Before applying deodorant or antiperspirant, your skin should be clean and dry. It's best to apply these products after a shower when your skin is free from sweat and impurities. Clean skin ensures better absorption of active ingredients and reduces the likelihood of irritation.
Apply Immediately After Showering
The best time to apply deodorant or antiperspirant is right after showering when your skin is dry. The heat helps open pores, allowing the product to absorb better and more effectively.
Avoid Applying on Irritated or Wet Skin
Do not apply deodorant or antiperspirant on wet or irritated skin from shaving or friction. This could cause irritation or itching. Wait until your skin is completely dry if it's sensitive or irritated before using the product.
Wait a Few Minutes Before Wearing Clothes
After applying the product, it’s best to wait for 2 to 3 minutes until it dries completely. This helps prevent stains on your clothes and ensures the product works effectively.
Apply Gently
Don’t press too hard when applying deodorant or antiperspirant. A gentle swipe on the skin is enough to cover the area evenly. If you're using a spray, hold it about 15-20 cm away from your skin for even distribution.
Avoid Overuse
Don’t overuse deodorant or antiperspirant. A small amount is enough to cover the area properly. Excessive use can lead to product buildup on the skin or clothing, reducing its effectiveness.
Avoid Using on Cuts or Damaged Skin
Avoid applying deodorant or antiperspirant on cuts, scars, or burns. This can cause further irritation or infections. It's best to wait until the skin is fully healed before applying these products.
Use Regularly
For the best results, use deodorant or antiperspirant regularly at the same time every day. This will help keep your skin dry and reduce unpleasant odors throughout the day.
Choose the Right Product for Your Skin
Choose a deodorant or antiperspirant that’s suitable for your skin type, whether it’s sensitive or oily. If you experience allergies or irritation, it’s best to use products that are free from fragrances or alcohol.
Switch Products When Necessary
If you notice that the product is no longer effective or if you begin to experience irritation, it may be a good idea to change the type or brand of product you're using.