Wanting to combat both sweat and odour, choosing between deodorant and antiperspirant can be a bit of a challenge. We’re taking a quick look at each to help you make choose the best option for you and your skin.
Deodorant
Like its name suggests, deodorants primarily work to prevent and mask odour. Categorized as a cosmetic product, deodorants are generally formulated with an alcohol-base to help fight odour causing bacteria.
Photo c/o Baxter of California.
They’re often available in a variety of fragrances that help mask body odour. Unlike antiperspirants, deodorants will not prevent sweat.
FUN FACT: The first form of deodorant was patented in the late 1800’s as an alternative to the alum blocks that were being used.
Many brands offer aluminum and alcohol-free versions, for those looking for natural alternatives.
Photo c/o Salt & Stone.
Antiperspirants
Unlike deodorants, antiperspirants work to prevent sweat and perspiration. Antiperspirants close sweat gland and are technically classified as a drug as it alters the body’s natural function.
Photo c/o Jack Black.
FUN FACT: Antiperspirant didn’t commercially appear until the 1940’s.
Formulated with aluminum-based compounds, antiperspirants keep you dry so you won’t have to worry about sweat stains.
Which to Choose?
Deodorant will prevent odour while antiperspirants prevent sweat. Both products will react differently to each person’s body composition so it might be a good idea to try one of each to find which you prefer.
Photo c/o Duke Cannon.
It’s also a good idea to alternate between brands of either deodorants or antiperspirants as your body can stop responding to a formulation after prolonged use, making the product ineffective.
