Deodorants and antiperspirants: differences, myths and choice

Take care of the underarm skin It is essential to maintain proper hygiene and general well-being. There are two main products on the market that help in this task: deodorants and antiperspirantsAlthough they are often confused, each one has different functions that you should know in order to choose the most suitable one for your needs.

What are deodorants and what are they used for?

El Deodorant It is a product designed to mask the smell of sweat without blocking sweating. Its main function is to eliminate the bacteria responsible for bad odor on the skin, using fragrances and antibacterial agents. This type of product can be applied to different parts of the body, not just the armpits, and is ideal for those looking for control odor without interfering with the natural sweating process.

What are antiperspirants and how do they work?

El antiperspirant, on the other hand, has as its main objective reduce sweating by temporarily blocking the pores of the sweat glands. This is achieved thanks to the aluminum salts, which form a barrier in the sweat ducts. In addition, because sweating is reduced, the proliferation of bacteria and, therefore, bad odor is also reduced.

Unlike deodorants, antiperspirants should not be applied all over the body as sweating is crucial for regulating body temperature. Using them excessively or in inappropriate areas could be counterproductive.

Key differences between deodorants and antiperspirants

It is common for both products to be confused, but there are substantial differences that are worth highlighting:

• Deodorants: They neutralize odor through fragrances and antibacterial agents without blocking pores.
• Antiperspirants: They reduce sweating by blocking pores, which also minimizes bad odor.
• Duration: Antiperspirants are usually effective for longer, up to 48 hours, while deodorants have a shorter effect, 8 to 12 hours.
• Application: Deodorants can be applied to damp or dry skin, while antiperspirants work best on completely dry skin and preferably at night.

Myths and truths about antiperspirants and deodorants

Many Myths about using antiperspirants and deodorants, especially in relation to their impact on health. Below we clarify some of the most common ones:

• Does aluminum cause breast cancer or Alzheimer's? Recent studies have ruled out a direct link between aluminium salts in antiperspirants and these diseases. Aluminium is safe for use in cosmetic products according to international regulations.
• Is sweat the cause of bad odor? No, sweat itself is odorless. Bad odor is generated when sweat interacts with bacteria present on the skin.
• Is it bad to sweat less? Blocking underarm sweating does not significantly affect the body's ability to regulate its temperature, as the armpits account for only 1-2% of the total sweat glands.

How to choose the right product

The key to choosing between a deodorant or antiperspirant lies in your personal needs:

1. If your main concern is control bad odor, Deodorant It will be enough.
2. If you suffer from excessive sweating, antiperspirant may be more suitable for you.
3. Look for alcohol-free options if you have sensitive skin to avoid irritation.

Currently, there are also on the market combined products which offer both deodorant and antiperspirant properties, which can be an excellent option for those looking for comfort and effectiveness.

Tips for correct use

To obtain the best results and avoid irritation, it is important to apply these products properly:

• Antiperspirants: Use them at night, after washing and drying your armpits. This allows the aluminum salts to act while the sweat glands are less active.
• Deodorants: Apply in the morning to clean skin to maintain a fresh scent all day long.
• Avoid using them after waxing to prevent irritation.

In the case of people with hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), there are medical treatments such as Botulinum toxin and iontophoresis, which may be necessary if regular antiperspirants are not effective.

Understanding the differences between deodorants and antiperspirants is essential to improving your personal hygiene and adapting it to the specific needs of your skin and lifestyle. Opting for quality products and applying them correctly will allow you to keep odor and sweat under control without compromising the health of your skin.