What is the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant and how to use them? What is the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant, which is safer and better?

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deodorant and antiperspirant

Good afternoon, dear readers! What do we know about our companion deodorants? Is there a difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant applied to the skin? We often buy these products by smell or by their state of aggregation, since some are available in the form of gels or sprays, others in the form of a cream or ball.

Using antiperspirant-deodorant every day, most people don't even think about what they're doing, considering applying it to their skin as just a routine part of our morning exercise.

So can regularly applying chemicals to your skin make your skin healthy, and if not, is there an alternative? This article will explain what exactly causes body odor, explore the health implications of deodorant and antiperspirant use, and highlight alternatives for controlling body odor.

What causes bad odor

Experts say that people intuitively choose each other by smell. All people sweat and the belief that body odor is the smell of sweat is wrong. Sweat in a healthy person itself has the appearance of a clear liquid without a characteristic odor.

Almost 2.5 million sweat glands are involved in human thermoregulation, through which cell breakdown products, harmful substances, and partly medications are removed from the body. And if a person is sick or takes a lot of pills, the sweat immediately changes in smell. Becomes characteristic and unpleasant. The smell of sweat also changes from the food we eat.

The smell is added by bacteria living on the skin, which are able to metabolize sweat. The armpits are usually the most favorable environment for the development of bacteria; it is warm and humid, creating ideal conditions for their growth. Bacteria break down sebum secreted by the sebaceous glands, and when sweat and fatty acids interact, an unpleasant odor appears.

Interestingly, washing your armpits with soap makes the skin's natural pH more neutral, allowing bacteria to grow and multiply more actively. All these factors make the armpits an ideal place for the existence of pathogenic bacteria, which in the process of their life activity arise, die and decompose, giving a certain odor.

A little history

People have been struggling with body odor and sweat since time immemorial. What people didn’t come up with... They used aromatic oils for the armpits, for this purpose perfume was invented in order to somehow mask the unpleasant odor.

we choose each other by smell

In France, sponges soaked in perfume were attached under clothes, or bags filled with herbs were tied under the arms. And at the end of the 19th century, scientists invented deodorants and antiperspirants that used zinc oxide. This component is still included in some cosmetic products to this day.

The first dangerous antiperspirant containing aluminum salts (aluminum chloride) was created in 1903. It forms a kind of plugs that block the secretion of sweat glands. Later, roll-on deodorants appeared that resembled ballpoint pen, even later gels and sticks, aerosols...

Nowadays, almost 90% of the population from adolescence to 60 years and older use deodorants and antiperspirants. A huge number of them have been created, with different fragrances for men and women, and without fragrances.

Antiperspirants and deodorants, what are they?

Although these terms are used interchangeably, they are actually different products, which begs the question, what is the difference? They are divided into 3 groups:

group of deodorants;
a group of antiperspirants, which includes gels and sticks, creams, rollers;
a group of pharmacological agents based on formaldehyde, which completely blocks the sweat glands. It is used to treat hyperhidrosis.

Antiperspirants prevent the production of sweat, which stops the proliferation and growth of bacteria. The most common way to prevent sweat is to use aluminum-based compounds, such as aluminum chloride and aluminum chlorohydrate. They form a gel, which, like a cork, clogs the pores of the skin and blocks the release of sweat.

Deodorants simply mask the unpleasant odor with a stronger and more pleasant aroma. The best of them, in addition to the aromatic smell, contain antibacterial, bactericidal and disinfectant elements that destroy bacteria and microorganisms.

The table shows that there is a difference between deodorants and antiperspirants and it lies in the dangerous content of aluminum salts.

The table gives a clear idea of how a deodorant differs from an antiperspirant.

Scientific research on antiperspirants confirms their dangers

>The harmful effects of aluminum salts

The main concern is that aluminum-based compounds can penetrate into the sweat gland and through the skin and interact with cells. In the early 2000s, a number of clinical studies showed an increase in the incidence of cancer in the upper outer quadrant of the breast, i.e. near the armpit where antiperspirants are sprayed.

Studies have been carried out regarding the interaction of aluminum in the body and it has been proven that aluminum is ultimately absorbed by the skin, where it changes the microenvironment of the surrounding tissue. Aluminum is known to be genotoxic and cause genetic damage consistent with mutations associated with breast cancer.

There is evidence that aluminum chloride and hydrochloride alter estrogen receptors in the breast, thereby increasing the risk of breast cancer.

One can debate the amount that is absorbed by the skin and what is a safe dose, but there is no doubt that aluminum is absorbed by the skin and causes genetic damage.

Aluminum salts, which are active elements antiperspirants cause anemia, skeletal diseases and even contribute to the development of dementia in people with reduced kidney function. (A.C. Alfrey, Drug Monit. 1993, 593–597). This metal increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, sclerosis and Parkinson's.

This was published in an American medical journal by the scientist Guillard, who spoke about his research on the use of antiperspirants on female volunteers.

When measuring the level of aluminum in the blood, it was noted that it increased to 4 microns, with the norm being 0.3 microns. Moreover, these salts are removed from the body very slowly; only 4 years later, after using an antiperspirant, the blood and urine levels returned to normal levels.

Following this report, French scientists conducted additional research on the absorption of substances contained in antiperspirants by skin cells. Three antiperspirants were studied:

aerosol containing 38.5% alminium chlorohydrate,
roller with emulsion containing 14.5% aluminum chlorohydrate,
stick containing 21.2% aluminum chlorohydrate.

Studies have shown that the safest of the antiperspirants presented was the roller, which showed the adsorption of aluminum on the skin -2.69 mcg/per square meter. cm. The stick had greater adsorption - 6.14 μg/per square meter. cm.

And tests showed a higher level of aluminum in the blood after using the stick compared to two other antispirants.

Conclusion made by scientists: These studies have shown what is best in the antiperspirant line.
Sticks are the most dangerous, despite the fact that they contain less aluminum chloride compared to aerosols.
The danger of antiperspirant exposure to the skin depends on its state of aggregation.
The safest of the three presented is an antiperspirant roll-on deodorant (roll-on).

Chemical group of phthalates

Concerns about health effects are caused by a group of chemicals called phthalates, especially diethyl phthalate and dibutyl phthalate, which are used to dissolve in perfume compounds.

Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, absorbed through the skin and found in urine. Phthalates may also increase the risk of breast cancer, but data on them is much more limited compared to aluminum.

Paraben

The third compound of concern is parabens, a group of antibacterial substances. Animal studies have shown that such compounds are non-toxic but are absorbed by the skin.
Their peculiarity is the ability to imitate the action of estrogen in the body. It is known that increased estrogen activity in the breast leads to an increased likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Although a cause-and-effect relationship between parabens and breast cancer has not yet been established, the fact that they are absorbed into the skin and mimic the effects of estrogen suggests that they may contribute to an increased risk for breast health.

How to use deodorants and antiperspirants

They must be applied to clean and dry skin.
Be sure to wash it off in the evening; do not leave it on overnight.
You should not apply products immediately after shaving, as there may be wounds and cracks on the skin, damage to the skin, which will increase the absorption of harmful substances into the blood.
Try to use deodorants, and use antiperspirants only when absolutely necessary.
Do not use antiperspirants before or during sports or any physical activity. During exercise, a person sweats a lot; anti-sweat products disrupt this physiological process of thermoregulation.
Do not use products that promise long-term protection against sweat (24 hour or 48 hour action). Such products contain more harmful substances that are hazardous to health.

And I answer the question right away: Is it possible to use antiperspirant when feeding a baby? breast milk. Definitely no. In addition, they should not be used during pregnancy. Just remember that aluminum salts are not eliminated from the body for almost 4 years.

The harmful effects of antiperspirants concern all people, and the scientific world is struggling with the problem of creating safe antibacterial protection against sweat.

What can replace antiperspirant?

Scientists continue to conduct investigations in order to invent a safe alternative. Thus, in Iran, the effect of sage extract on two bacteria responsible for the formation of odor was experimentally tested. The experiment involved 45 volunteers, who confirmed that its action lasts for 8 hours at a low concentration.

This suggests that natural herbal extracts and natural oils can successfully replace dangerous chemical components included in cosmetic products.
Watch the video on how to choose a deodorant:

You can do your own experiments using antiseptic essential oils such as fir, lavender and tea tree oils, eucalyptus and peppermint... Don't forget to pay attention to the expiration date.

Homemade antiperspirant recipe

Homemade antiperspirants do not last long; if stored in the refrigerator, their shelf life is only 2-3 months. But they are safe for health.

Preparation: In a glass or porcelain container, mix starch, soda and vitamin E. Melt cocoa and shea butter in a water bath, add them to the prepared mixture. Pour in glycerin and a few drops of essential oil.

Mix the mixture well and pour it into an empty antiperspirant container. Store the prepared homemade stick in the refrigerator.

What are the benefits of homemade antiperspirant deodorant?

It does not contain hazardous components for health (aluminum salts and parabens) and this is the most important thing.
Does not cause allergic reactions.

Disadvantages of homemade antiperspirant:

Lasts about 8 hours.
May stain clothes, unlike those that do not leave a mark.

make homemade antiperspirant

Now you know whether there is a difference between deodorant and antiperspirant applied to the skin. Of course, it is difficult for a person who is in the company of work colleagues every day to do without a factory-made antiperspirant or deodorant. Stress at work and emotional upheavals cause profuse sweating and you don’t want to smell unpleasant odors.

But the constant use of antiperspirants has another secondary harm to the body. As you already understand, these products clog the sweat glands, but physiological processes continue to operate. Blocked sweat glands begin to work in double mode; they do not like being blocked.

And one day you will notice that a 48-hour antiperspirant against excessive sweating, which worked flawlessly, suddenly fails to cope with its tasks and lasts only a few hours. Now you understand why. It's not about him, it's about the sweat glands.

Therefore, if possible, give your glands a rest, at least for a short time. For some time, the sweat glands will work in enhanced mode, expecting that they will now be blocked again and your armpits will be wet, but then they will return to their normal rhythm of work.

Choose an essential oil for yourself, according to your taste. By the way, many people use essential oils and they help. High-quality oils do not leave marks on clothes, because they evaporate quickly. If the smell of the oil seems too strong to you, dilute it with alcohol.

I heard on a health program that some people just use baking soda and dust their armpits with it.

Use herbal extracts, because our ancestors successfully used them for aromatization and deodorization.

And once again I want to remind you. Switching to home remedies can be frustrating, especially for those who have been using long-acting antiperspirants. After using store-bought antiperspirants, the body (sweat glands) needs time to readjust.

Wish you the right choice!

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The cosmetic market offers a huge variety of cosmetics, including deodorants. Technically, any deodorant sold in a store can be used by girls.

The type of deodorant you buy depends only on your wishes. However, the scent of the deodorant and the ingredients included may influence your choice.

The difference between deodorants and antiperspirants

Deodorants are products that simply mask the odor emanating from the body.

Antiperspirants They differ from deodorants in that they work to stop sweating. Many products available in stores are a combination of both.

Some of them are intended for both men and women, but most of them are still divided separately into “male” and separately into “female”.

Products may further vary by age group. Deodorants for girls are usually available in a variety of light, floral or fruity scents. The scent you choose depends on your preference. You can find any scent on store shelves and please almost any consumer.

If you're active in sports, you can buy a deodorant with a mild, clean or soapy scent that isn't as strong or overpowering.

Likewise, you can choose a deodorant that contains no fragrance at all if you just want to control your sweating and not experience any additional odors. Children can use deodorants intended for adults.

Deodorants come in different forms. Solid deodorant is the most common. Gel, cream or spray deodorants are also popular.

Is it harmful to use antiperspirant or deodorant?

You need to be more careful when purchasing deodorant. IN Lately Research has linked a variety of medical conditions to the presence of aluminum found in antiperspirants.

Breast cancer
Limb cramps
Kidney problems
Bone disorders
Alzheimer's disease

Here are just some of the problems associated with the presence of aluminum in antiperspirants. If you want to reduce your risk for these diseases, choose a natural deodorant that does not contain aluminum.

Parabens, petroleum products, and sodium lauryl sulfate are also ingredients you should avoid.

Non-aluminum deodorants can be purchased at health food stores or online stores that sell green cosmetics. They have pleasant aromas, as essential oils and other natural ingredients, which do not pose a health hazard. These deodorants may come in the form of crystals, lotions, or sticks.

Some time ago, there were warnings about a link between aluminum in antiperspirants and the risk of breast cancer. Women are often warned not to wear antiperspirants or deodorants before a mammogram. Residue from cosmetic products could show up on X-rays and be mistaken for abnormal breast developments.

But, to date, it has already been proven that no scientific or medical evidence has been found linking the components of deodorants with breast cancer.

The only proven risk of using deodorant or antiperspirant is skin irritation.

Most formulas are pH balanced, meaning they are not so acidic as to cause skin reactions. However, anyone who experiences irritation from using the product should discontinue use. Never use antiperspirant or deodorant on damaged skin.

What you need to know about antiperspirants?

Every person sweats. There is no way to change this. But there are products in stores to prevent the smell of sweat from being felt. One of them is antiperspirant. But how is it different from deodorant?

But first you need to know what sweat is.

Sweat is a saline solution that is released from the human body through the sweat glands. It is involved in thermoregulation of the body, removal of waste and harmful substances and other functions. And these are some of the reasons why sweat has such an unpleasant odor.

To hide the smell of sweat, they came up with special means of protection, such as antiperspirant and deodorant. But often people use antiperspirant incorrectly, so they do not observe any effect, and, therefore, choose another company, and so on and so forth, but none of them work.

If you applied antiperspirant in the morning, you made a mistake. Because of it, sweat will be felt. And all because people do not understand how deodorant and antiperspirant work. Deodorant and antiperspirant are completely different products. The antiperspirant is designed to prevent sweat by containing aluminum, which temporarily clogs the pores. And deodorant masks the odor and is less effective, which is why most people choose antiperspirant.

How to apply antiperspirant correctly

Here are a few rules that will make applying antiperspirant only beneficial.

First: you need to apply it not in the morning, but before bed. During sleep, our body temperature drops slightly, which reduces the level of sweat production. But some people take a shower in the morning. Won't antiperspirant wash off? Answer: no, because the drug was well absorbed into the skin overnight, so it will not wash out and will act for at least 24 hours.

Second: apply to dry skin.

And even those people who follow the first rule most likely do not follow the second rule, which states that antiperspirant should be applied to dry skin, not wet skin. If you apply the drug to wet skin, it will not be absorbed and will dry out along with the water. Or the antiperspirant will work, but only on the upper layers of the epidermis, but will not reach the sweat glands, so it will not work.

Which type of antiperspirant should you choose: spray, roll-on or cream?

Antiperspirants should not be given to other people, since each person has their own bacteria in their armpits, and no one knows what infections and other things are there. But if there is such a need to use someone else’s antiperspirant, then it is better to use a spray or aerosol. But why them? They do not have direct contact with the skin, which means there will be no bacteria from someone else's armpit on the nebulizer.

But if the skin is after shaving, then an aerosol or spray will be a bad solution, since they contain alcohol.

Cream can even be called a slightly better solution, since contact occurs only with the surface of the hands, which have few bacteria on them after washing. Convenient tube shape, thanks to which you can squeeze out a certain amount of the drug.

But it is better to use solid forms of antiperspirants such as balls, sticks or crystals purely for yourself, since there is direct contact with the skin, thereby you can transfer the infection to someone else, or you yourself can catch some kind of skin disease or irritation, which will then be very difficult will get rid of it. Therefore, if you have several men in your family, let each have their own antiperspirant.

And what would I like to say in the end? Everyone sweats, and this cannot be avoided. This is a standard human process. We can't do without him. But by maintaining hygiene, we can attract people and not spoil the smell around us.

Until deodorants and antiperspirants were invented, people tried in various ways to cope with sweating and remove unpleasant odors. For example, in the East they used alunite crystal. In Russia, wine vinegar and lemon juice were used for these purposes. But the refreshing effect did not last long.

For many years, special cosmetic preparations for sweating have been used everywhere. They are an indispensable element of hygiene, starting from puberty. We also constantly encounter many myths regarding the safety of their use.

In this article I would like to clarify the following questions:

What is their mechanism of action?
What is the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant?
Are they really that effective?
Do they negatively affect our health?

Let's start with physiology - where does sweat come from?

Sweat glands are located on the entire surface of the body. The amount of fluid they secrete depends on age, gender, body condition, as well as external factors, mainly temperature and humidity. Sweat glands are appendages of the skin. They were first identified and described in the 20s of the last century.

It was then established that they are eccrine and apocrine:

eccrine - found throughout the body. A person has about 2-5 million of them, and there are about 200 of them per 1 square cm of skin. Most of them are on the palms, soles and armpits. The main function of these glands is to maintain a constant body temperature and prevent overheating of the body. In addition, sweat is an integral part of the water-lipid layer and is responsible for the constancy of the acid-base balance on the surface of the skin. This ensures protection against infection by microbes and a balanced keratinization process;
apocrine - concentrated only in certain places, in particular in the axillary areas. They are larger in size than eccrine ones. They are present from the moment of birth, but begin to function only during puberty. Apocrine glands do not take part in thermoregulation. In all likelihood, it is they who secrete pheromones - substances that determine individual body odor. The role of these glands has not been fully studied.

Why does sweat smell so bad?

The answer to this question is very important in understanding the difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant. The secretion of both eccrine and apocrine glands is odorless.

It appears as a result of processes occurring on the skin:

The constituent components of sweat are various organic compounds that serve as an excellent breeding ground for microorganisms located on the surface of the skin. As a result of their activity, some components of sweat decompose, releasing substances with a strong unpleasant odor;
the smell also depends on androgens, which are present in the secretion of the sweat glands. It determines microconcentrations of androsterone and androstenol. These are very small quantities, but quite sufficient for the human sense of smell.

Eccrine sweat is a dilute hypotonic solution, primarily of inorganic salts and ammonia. It plays a small role in the emergence of a specific aroma.

However, on the other hand, it helps indirectly:

promotes the spread of apocrine secretion over the skin, which has a more viscous consistency;
maintains a moist environment in the armpits, which favors the development of microorganisms.

Antiperspirants – antiperspirants and deodorants

These two types of products, despite the fact that they are essentially different, often mislead buyers. This is partly due to the fact that the concept of “anti-sweat deodorant” or “sweat-inhibiting deodorant”, which existed back in the 80s, was replaced by the term “antiperspirant”.

Watch from 1:18 minutes:

In the classical sense, there is a difference between a deodorizing component or product (deodorant) and an antiperspirant (antiperspirant).

The difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant is not clear on the Internet, in particular on cosmetic forums and blogs.

Producers following modern trends, often customize their product to suit the buyer. You can find products that say “antiperspirant deodorant” on the label. This indicates a multidirectional effect of the drug and possibly explains the higher cost.

However, this may not be entirely clear to buyers.

What is the principle of antiperspirants?

These are products that inhibit (but only partially!) the secretion of sweat. They reduce its secretion in the area where they are applied.

The active ingredients of this type of preparation are aluminum salts or aluminum-zirconium complexes. After application of such a product to the skin, polymerization of aluminum compounds occurs under the influence of physiological pH and body temperature. A gel is formed that superficially clogs the openings of the sweat glands.

Such “plugs” result in limiting their secretion.

Here's the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant - the former never block the sweat glands.

However, such a blockade is temporary and disappears for the following reasons:

as the stratum corneum of the epidermis peels off;
while taking water procedures with soap;
and even with heavy sweating.

When choosing an antiperspirant, pay attention to its additional properties. Some, in addition to performing their main function, have anti-inflammatory properties, soften and moisturize the skin, and promote its regeneration after shaving.

Let's look at the composition - you should know this

The main active component (and practically the only effective one) are aluminum compounds and aluminum-zirconium complexes. They have been used for over 100 years (aluminum chloride was the first). Even despite large-scale scientific research in recent years, no alternative has been found.

It is obvious that the progress of science and technology has led to improved technology for the production of antiperspirants. Thanks to this, their effectiveness has increased, the formula has become softer on the skin, new types of packaging have appeared - balls, pins, sprays, etc.

However, the essence remains the same - aluminum. We can say with complete confidence that there is not a single effective antiperspirant that is not based on aluminum or its compounds. A claim like “aluminium-free” is a promise without evidence.

All cosmetics manufacturers that produce antiperspirants, whether it is an international concern or a small family business, have access to the same active substances. And they all contain aluminum.

This, of course, does not mean at all that all products in a qualitative comparison are the same. Differences may be:

in packaging that determines ease of use;
concentration of active components, and, accordingly, the effectiveness of the drug;
the presence of other substances that affect the properties of the product - uniformity of application, speed of drying, prevention of stains on clothing, stickiness, etc.

So, aluminum chlorohydrate is most often used. It is the base component for all aerosols. Most roller and pin preparations contain aluminum-zirconium complexes.

As for other connections:

chloride can be found. But this applies more to the segment of pharmaceutical products used for hyperhidrosis;
Aluminum-potassium sulfate (alum) - comes in the form of crystals, powder or spray.

Modern antiperspirants also contain many other components:

deodorizing – perfume compositions, essential oils;
bacteriostatics, inhibitors of bacterial exoenzymes;
softening;
moisturizing, etc.

A very important component that neutralizes the effect of white spots on clothes.

Therefore, the specific composition depends on the product concept and formulation.

Is it safe to use antiperspirants?

There is speculation that cosmetics used in the armpits cause breast cancer. Moreover, the group of antiperspirants in this sense is the most unlucky, if you take into account how many myths and prejudices revolve around them.

On many blogs and websites you can read about the increased risk of breast tumors, Alzheimer's disease, "toxin buildup" in the lymph nodes, etc. Such reasoning leads readers to the unequivocal conclusion “antiperspirant - no, deodorant - yes.”

In the light of modern medicine, such statements are groundless. In all likelihood, they arise due to a sharp simplification in the interpretation and selective interpretation of the results of scientific research or even their complete ignoring.

The absence of a relationship with malignant neoplasms of the mammary gland was confirmed by American and European scientists.

What is deodorant and how does it work?

This is a product that provides a pleasant aroma, freshness and body care. Its main active ingredients are various perfumed fragrances. Of course, it also contains alcohol, which has antiseptic properties.

Deodorant is a product that prevents the unpleasant odor of sweat that has already been released.

The mechanism of action may be different:

masking odor using aromatic substances;
preventing the decomposition of sweat components by microorganisms;
inhibition of oxidative processes leading to the appearance of unpleasant-smelling substances.

The effect of using deodorant does not last long and is limited to just a few hours.

Such products are suitable for people whose sweating is at a normal level. If it increases, for example in cases of stress, strong emotions, physical activity or high temperature environment, it is better to use an antiperspirant.

Thus, the main difference between antiperspirant and deodorant is this: the first acts on the cause, and the second on the effect.

More information about the composition of deodorants

As mentioned above, the fight against the unpleasant odor of sweat occurs in several ways.

The method of action of the product depends on the components included in the composition:

masking the smell– provided by various aromatic compositions or essential oils. A more modern solution is not camouflage, but neutralization. Substances that have such capabilities include copper and silver sulfates, zinc and magnesium hydroxides;
limiting the activity of microorganisms and slowing down their reproduction– because they are the ones who metabolize the substances contained in sweat with the formation of volatile compounds with a sharp, specific aroma.

Substances with antimicrobial activity and used in cosmetic products, relate:

triclosan;
four-row ammonium salts (cetrimonium chloride, benzalkonium chloride);
metals – zinc, copper, silver;
alcohols – ethyl (ethanol), isopropyl (isopropanol);
glycols – pentylene and caprylyl glycols;
plant extracts;
slowing down the formation of compounds with an unpleasant odor without affecting microbes. This is achieved by lowering the pH of the skin using substances such as citric or lactic acid.

A more complex option is an alternative “food” for bacteria. Thanks to this, microorganisms will not metabolize the natural components of sweat and, accordingly, the smell will not appear.

Substances with this effect include:

triethyl citrate;
ethyl adipate;
chitosan;
citric acid esters.

It is also worth noting such a component as ethyl lactate. As a result of its processing by bacteria, lactic acid is released. It lowers the pH of the skin, as a result of which the proliferation of microbes slows down.

Doctors' opinions on this issue

Krasnoselsky V.I.

For most people, antiperspirant and deodorant are the same thing.

I don’t know why, but, indeed, many people don’t even realize that these are completely different means. This is probably why the fight against sweating is not successful for everyone.

Each of these products performs its own function and they cannot replace each other. I think that 2 in 1 products are not very convenient at all. It makes more sense to apply antiperspirant in the evening and, if desired, deodorant in the morning. Then the protection will be as effective as possible.

Try not to use antiperspirants 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Give your skin a rest.

Buchatskaya Yu.Yu.

Find the best protection option for yourself

Understanding the significant differences in the principle of action of deodorant and antiperspirant, it is not difficult to choose a combination that would suit you specifically.

For some, only deodorant is enough. In case of increased sweating (hyperhidrosis), it is better to use both remedies. Moreover, the antiperspirant must be medical, containing much more aluminum than regular store-bought ones. Don't forget to use it in the evening before going to bed. Only under this condition will it block most of the sweat glands.

I would also like to draw your attention to the quality of antiperspirants. Carefully study the composition, buy products from reliable, well-established manufacturers.

When the question arises about buying another anti-sweat product, many do not even read its composition, believing that any of these products act the same.

And if they buy antiperspirant instead of deodorant, they don’t see much difference in it. But it turns out that these are different things, and each of them has its own purpose.

The name of the deodorant speaks for itself. That is, it has a deodorizing effect on the skin. If a person sweats a lot, the product only suppresses the smell of sweat, preventing the growth of bacteria, but does not get rid of it.

Deodorant can be used if the smell of sweat is insignificant. But if a person sweats a lot and smells, then the sweat, mixed with deodorant, will cause a reverse reaction. It is not without reason that they advise applying deodorant to clean and dry skin. What to do in this case?

Then antiperspirant comes to the rescue.

Antiperspirant differs from deodorant in that it blocks the action of the sweat glands, thereby reducing sweating. But for the same reason, it cannot be used uncontrollably. If deodorant can be used several times a day, then antiperspirant is recommended to be applied to clean and dry skin of the armpits once a day. Since it contains aluminum salts, which in large quantities can be harmful.

Moreover, any high-quality antiperspirant acts throughout the day. But it is recommended to apply it under the arms not in the morning, but in the evening, when the skin is completely dry after taking a shower.

There are rumors that antiperspirants are harmful to health because they block sweat glands, but these findings are unsubstantiated. The only thing that can affect health is individual intolerance to any component in the composition. But any drug can have such an effect on the body.

Antiperspirants and deodorants are produced in the form of sprays, gels, and they come in roll-on types. Therefore, everyone should choose for themselves the product that suits their skin type.

If your skin is oily, you can buy an alcohol-based deodorant, which will also dry it out. But this is not suitable for dry skin.

In this case, you need to use gel or roll-on deodorants and antiperspirants, and they should be practically odorless.

Therefore, before buying a deodorant or antiperspirant, you need to decide for what purpose the purchase is being made: to scent the body or to reduce sweating and the unpleasant odor of sweat. If the second option is relevant, then first reduce sweating with an antiperspirant, and then you can use a deodorant to combat the smell.

There are deodorants on sale that contain antiperspirant. In this case, the skin has a double effect - blocking the sweat glands and deodorizing the body. These antiperspirant deodorants are recommended for those who are concerned about excessive sweating, accompanied by an unpleasant and strong odor.

To summarize, we can say the following:

Deodorant hides the smell of sweat and prevents the bacteria that causes this smell from multiplying. Antiperspirant reduces sweating by blocking the sweat glands.
Deodorant lasts only a few hours, but antiperspirant provides protection for 24 hours.
Deodorant can be used 2-3 times a day, but antiperspirant can be applied only once a day.
Deodorant is applied to various parts of the body, and antiperspirant is applied only to the armpits.
The antiperspirant contains aluminum ions, which help fight the amount of sweat. Some deodorants contain antiperspirant. Therefore, such deodorants are more effective in combating sweat.

But no matter what means of protection against sweat and odor is chosen, we must not forget about the basic rules of personal hygiene.

Sweating is a completely natural phenomenon. Its main function is to regulate body temperature, which is important when changing external (climate) and internal (diseases, stress) factors. Human sweat itself has no odor. Scientists have proven that unpleasant odors are the result of bacterial activity. It is smells that create the main awkwardness, requiring attention to problem areas. Most often, it is enough to use deodorant or antiperspirant.

Let's find the differences

Dermatologists clarify that the task of deodorants is one - to “kill” the unpleasant odor. An antiperspirant fights the problem more radically: it eliminates the cause. Sweat deodorant may contain substances that prevent the growth of “bad” bacteria. But antiperspirants (due to the content of zinc and aluminum) almost completely block the release of natural moisture from the armpits, as evidenced by research by American scientists.

A small amount of sweat may still be released. This is necessary for the sweat-producing glands to function normally. For this purpose, antiperspirants also come with fragrances. Therefore, the difference between them is sometimes invisible. Choosing a deodorant or antiperspirant is an individual matter for everyone, says dermatocosmetologist Gulnara Amanbaeva from BeautyHack. The choice must be made depending on individual sweating.

Sweating: when the norm is exceeded

The body is a well-established mechanism. He regulates most of the processes himself. In certain cases, the body only needs to follow the rules of hygiene and a little help preventative cosmetics. Sweating disorders (scientifically called hydrosis) are different:

Absence of sweat at all is anhidrosis. Occurs infrequently.
Reduced secretion – hypohidrosis. It occurs with some skin diseases and results in dry skin.
Increased sweating – hyperhidrosis.

Experts in the field note that pathological hypersweating is also rare - in 1% of the population, as a consequence of serious diseases: diabetes mellitus, tuberculosis, psychiatric disorders, obesity, for example. Such sweating is, of course, treated with a set of medical measures. Cosmetical tools are relevant here too, but will help little. If there are no significant health problems, available means - deodorants, antiperspirants - are sufficient.

Choosing the right one

The cosmetics industry provides ample opportunities to combat sweating. You can choose any form of protection you like:

Roll-on products. They protect with dignity, leave almost no traces, and can last a long time. “But” – it takes a little time to harden.
Sticks. The product penetrates deeper into the skin and, accordingly, protects more reliably. It is enough to apply once a day. No need to harden. The only significant disadvantage is that it leaves marks.
Sprays are suitable for those for whom protection is enough for a couple of hours, with light loads, because... its action is superficial. Not suitable for people with lung problems or sensitive skin (due to alcohol). Plus, the spray is invisible on clothes.
Crema. Suitable for people suffering from allergies.
Gels. They have a lighter structure compared to cream or stick. They work for a long time.

Some may find it more convenient to use deodorizing wipes or deodorizing soap.

Deodorants and antiperspirants can be sold separately, or they can be combined - 2 in 1. The choice of deodorants should be based on individual indicators. From physical activity, motor activity, heredity, sensitivity.

Let's go through the companies

Which deodorants/antiperspirants to focus on is up to you. We will mention only the most popular brands according to cosmetologists and consumers:

Rexona. Contains: perfume, sunflower oil. There may be stains on clothes. Dries in about two minutes. It doesn't have a very comfortable cap. Possesses good effect deodorization.

Nivea. Contains chamomile extract, Coconut oil and avocado oil. The stains are invisible, but only after drying. Has a strong deodorizing effect. The downside is that it comes in a glass bottle, which can be unreliable.

Dove. Contains a special softening formula, which makes the use of deodorant accessible for sensitive skin and after shaving. After drying, it leaves no traces. Excellent deodorizing effect.

Garnier. Contains active minerals and chamomile extract. Leaves stains. The deodorizing effect is good, but the two-day effect stated on the packaging is an exaggeration. The packaging is ergonomic.

Fa. The products of this brand are popular due to the wide selection of scents. Often the consumer's choice falls on the Lady Speed Stick company.