Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant
Differences exist between the functions of deodorant and antiperspirant and it's good to be aware of them to protect your body and health.
What Is the Difference Between Deodorant and Antiperspirant?
Natural deodorant is made with safe ingredients and essential oils to keep you smelling fresh but it doesn’t prevent sweating. Antiperspirants use chemicals and artificial fragrances to prevent the natural process of sweating. Antiperspirants typically use aluminum and parabens to block sweat glands and prevent sweating but these can cause skin sensitivities in some people and might cause some health issues to flare like allergies.
What Is Deodorant?
Deodorant helps control body odor caused by bacteria. It neutralizes odors with fragrances, including antibacterial agents to reduce odor-causing bacteria. Deodorants come in sprays, sticks, gels, or creams, and are used to maintain freshness throughout the day. They’re a good choice for those who don’t want to interfere with the body’s natural processes.
What Is Antiperspirant?
An antiperspirant reduces or stops sweating by temporarily blocking sweat glands. It's made with aluminum-based compounds, which create a gel-like barrier over sweat ducts to prevent sweat from reaching the skin's surface. Antiperspirants minimize the growth of odor-causing bacteria, addressing both sweat and body odor. Available in sprays, sticks, and roll-ons, antiperspirants keep users dry, especially in hot weather when they don’t want to sweat.
What Are the Benefits of Using Deodorant?
Deodorant can help you feel fresh throughout the day while neutralizing body odor. There are a wide variety of fragrances and essential oils used in deodorants to control odor, allowing you to pick one you like, or choose an unscented deodorant if you prefer. Many people like natural deodorants because they don’t interfere with the body’s normal sweating process. Natural deodorant can be a healthier alternative to traditional deodorant because it doesn’t contain aluminum or unsafe chemicals. When exercising or during warm weather, using deodorant can be helpful to control odors.
Are Antiperspirants Bad for You?
Some people have concerns about possible health issues associated with the use of aluminum as an ingredient in antiperspirants. Research hasn’t proven any links but is still ongoing. Because antiperspirants block sweat glands, they can lead to clogged pores and sometimes cause bumps under your arms. They can react to laundry detergents and cause fabric stains on your clothes sometimes. Consumer demand for products free from these ingredients has led to the development of aluminum-free and paraben-free deodorants. If you’re a person who has sensitive skin, antiperspirants could cause irritation or allergic reactions. If you’re having discomfort from an antiperspirant, consider switching to a natural deodorant. If you have concerns about using antiperspirants, consult with your healthcare professional.
Should I Stop Using Antiperspirant and Just Use Deodorant?
The decision to stop using antiperspirant and just use deodorant is a personal choice. If you have sensitive skin, switching to a deodorant without aluminum or artificial fragrances might reduce irritation. You might want to use a natural deodorant with safe ingredients to control odors. The choice depends on your lifestyle, comfort level, and any skin sensitivities you may have. A dermatologist can advise you about any skin issues and help you make an informed decision.
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