Spray, roll-on, stick or wipes – we have plenty to choose from if we want to buy a deodorant. However, do we really need one? Perhaps, it’s an antiperspirant that we’re looking for? Or maybe deodorant and antiperspirant don’t differ at all?
Deodorant and antiperspirant. Similarities & differences
There is one aim that connects deodorant and antiperspirant together: to neutralise the smell of sweat. Despite having the same mission, they have different means of obtaining it. To clarify, deodorant hides the smell of sweat whereas antiperspirant limits its production. This main difference lies in the composition of both cosmetics.
Deodorant is made of alcohol as well as fragrances and antibacterial substances. Once secreted, sweat (which doesn’t smell at all) encourages bacteria multiplication which are responsible for breaking down sweat into acids. As a consequence, bad smell is produced. The chemical compounds that deodorants are made from aim at reducing the number of bacteria and preventing sweat breaking down. Nevertheless, they don’t affect intensity of sweating and their action is rather short.
Antiperspirant contains fragrances and antibacterial agents as well as chemical compounds which limit sweat secretion. Skin pores get enlarged and contract when exposed to warmth or humidity and this influences intensity of perspiration. What’s worth realizing, antiperspirant’s lifespan lasts as long as it remains on skin. Therefore, this cosmetic is able to protect against unpleasant smell for the entire day.
Since action delivered by deodorant has so short lifespan, and antiperspirant is so effective, why would anyone reach for deodorant? The answer is simple. Namely, some people perspire intensively whereas others almost don’t sweat at all. Those who aren’t affected by the problem of perspiration don’t have to apply antiperspirants; they are fine with deodorants. On the other hand, those who get all wet even before leaving home, should go for antiperspirants.
What does influence intensity of perspiring?
It’s worth realizing that we can control the smell and intensity of our sweat, to some extend of course. In order to make it the least sensible, we need to refrain from consuming spicy seasoning and food products that generate sulphate compounds (e.g. onion, garlic, broccoli) as well as products that contain preservatives and artificial colourants. Also, it’s a good idea to avoid wearing clothes made of synthetic fabrics.
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