When we talk about the unpleasant body odor; the first question that comes to our attention is Deodorant vs Antiperspirant; what is the best choice for me and what is the difference between them?
In this article we will talk about the reason for the unpleasant body odor; mechanism of action for Deodorant vs Antiperspirant; uses and benefits of antiperspirants and deodorants; and dangers of using antiperspirants and deodorants.
Sweating is a necessary function to regulate body temperature. Sweat hasn’t offensive odor itself, but bacteria “found in the skin’s surface” breaks down the sweat and results in this bad odor. The armpits, groin, and around the breast are moist areas and their sweat is high in protein, so it is a perfect environment for the bacteria to live in and break down the sweat.
Excessive sweating Causes are varied
Genetics and food influence your body’s odor. Some factors and diseases also can change your sweat’s odor or amount as Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) or Anhidrosis (un sweating normally). There are many cosmetic products or drugs to overcome Excessive sweating Causes like deodorant and antiperspirant whether prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC).
should I use deodorant and antiperspirant?
The offensive odour of sweat affects your self-confidence and attraction, so everyone takes steps to make himself more comfortable and fresher. Using deodorant and antiperspirant after puberty is one of the first choices.
§ Deodorants
Deodorant is a cosmetic product as Food and drug administration (FDA) considered; as deodorant only removes the odor without affecting sweat’s secretion. Thanks to deodorant’s alcoholic-base, it converts your skin into acidic; which makes it less attractive to bacteria.
§ Antiperspirants
Antiperspirant contains aluminum-based compounds that block sweat pores temporarily, so it Decreases the secretion of sweat. FDA considered Antiperspirant as a drug.
§ Deodorant antiperspirant combo
deodorant and antiperspirant in one whether stick, roll-on, or spray is a new idea, that has launched by some brands. deodorant and antiperspirant in one product have the benefits and harms of both. deodorant antiperspirant combo makes you feel dry due to antiperspirant and masks the offensive odor due to deodorant; by using the deodorant antiperspirant combo you kill two birds with one stone.
Deodorant and Antiperspirant dangers
Some researches linked between using antiperspirants and cancer due to absorbed aluminum and parabens, but Till Now; there is no scientific evidence that antiperspirant dangers may be cancer. To choose the safest antiperspirant, you should read the label on it before using, and make an analysis of active ingredients used in antiperspirants to be sure of its safety.
§ analysis of active ingredients used in antiperspirants
1-aluminum
Aluminum stops the flow of moisture to the skin by a temporary blockage of sweat glands. Several researches link between antiperspirants and breast cancer and some diseases like Alzheimer’s disease; that’s due to higher concentrations of aluminum.
2-parabens
Parabens are preservatives on cosmetic products used to prevent bacteria. Small studies found a trace number of parabens on breast cancer so, linked between antiperspirants and breast cancer.
3-fragrance
People also choose from different antiperspirants according to their scent; the fragrance makes them feel clean and fresh.
4- Emollient oil
Emollient oil like sunflower oil, castor, or mineral makes the antiperspirants or deodorants glide smoothly; the emollients also prevent the flaking after the product dries on the skin.
5-talcum powder
talcum powder helps the skin feel dry, as it absorbs the moisture and oils from the skin, especially the underarm area.
6- alcohol
Alcohol is mainly used in aerosols, gels, and roll-ons. It is used as a dissolving agent as it dries quickly and gives a cool feeling when applied to the skin.
§ Deodorant ingredients
Deodorant ingredients are classified into three main sectors:
1- substances that have anti-microbial action like triclosan, ethanol, quaternary ammonium.
2- substances that neutralize the body odor like Zn ricinoleate.
3- essential oils which mask the bad odor of perspiration and give you smelling like fragrance.
Our dew treats for you to overcome that bad smell:
§ Take a bath every day.
§ Wash your body with antibacterial soap to remove armpit odor.
§ Remove your excessive hair especially in the underarm area by one of these methods.
§ Wear cotton clothes to absorb moisture and reduce wetness.
§ Exchange your clothes with a clean one after the bath.
§ Use deodorant or antiperspirant.
§ Spray your favorite fragrance onto a hairbrush, before brushing your dry hair.
§ Apply perfume to pulse points make it lasts for a longer time.
§ Moisturize your skin after the bath with your scented lotion.
§ Reduce the intake of foods that increase your sweating.
§ To be on the safe side; you should use deodorant antiperspirant natural products without aluminum.
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