Deodorant: how to use correctly and what is its potential harm

With the onset of summer, many women begin to worry about such pressing problems as moisture stains on clothes and the unpleasant smell of sweat, because they can spoil the impression of even the most stylish look and impeccable makeup. Every lady simply has to think about which product to choose in order to avoid embarrassment. And if in winter this issue is not so acute, then in the heat the use of deodorants becomes a necessity. What types of hygiene products does the market offer us today and how to use them correctly?

Types of deodorants

Surely, not everyone knows that the water-salt solution that our sweat glands secrete actually has neither color nor odor. The unpleasant effect is caused by bacteria that actively multiply in a warm, humid environment, resulting in the “sweat smell.”

In the modern world, the use of deodorants has long become the norm and a standard hygiene procedure, like, for example, brushing your teeth. Almost everyone uses means to prevent sweating - men, women, and teenagers. However, not everyone understands the principle of their action, despite the variety of types and manufacturers.

Deodorants are divided into two main groups:

• The task of conventional deodorants is to neutralize the action of microbes that cause the smell of sweat and mask it with antibacterial additives.
• Antiperspirant deodorant has a different principle of operation - it blocks the secretion of sweat from the sebaceous glands, respectively, preventing the appearance of moisture and odor.

Types of deodorants:

• Deodorants in the form of eau de parfum have two undeniable advantages - they have a pleasant smell, they can be applied as perfume and used regularly. But there are still more disadvantages - such deodorants do not contain antibacterial additives, so the effect lasts only for a few hours; instead, alcohol is added to the product, which dries out the skin with constant use; this option is more suitable for oily types.
• The most popular form of deodorants today are sprays - they are convenient to use as they are sprayed on a specific area of ​​the skin and are easy to control. It does not have the main disadvantage of all similar products - it does not leave stains on clothes, dries quickly, does not contain harmful chemical components that can cause allergic reactions, therefore it is suitable for any skin type. Cons - odor protection does not last long; the massive bottle may explode if exposed to direct sunlight.
• The advantage of a deodorant in stick form is its compactness, ease of use and relative safety for health. However, with frequent use, skin irritation may occur due to the alcohol contained in the composition. The downside is that the stick often leaves white marks on clothes.
• Perhaps the most economical option is a roll-on deodorant; it is easy to distribute on the problem area thanks to the rotating ball. The downside is that it takes longer to dry than other deodorants and may contain alcohol.
• A relatively new type of deodorant are special powder products - powder or talc, which can act as an antiperspirant. They are applied directly after a shower to perfectly dry skin; they are more suitable for those with an oily skin type. Cons: They leave stains and are not suitable for everyday use.

How to choose a deodorant

Everyone knows that sweating is a normal physiological process, and a very useful tool for body thermoregulation, but this is little consolation, especially for those women who suffer from hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).

When choosing a deodorant or antiperspirant, several factors must be taken into account: skin type and the degree of sensitivity, the intensity of sweating and the individual severity of odor, as well as the perfume composition or lack thereof. When going to the store for a new hygiene product, remember:

• a high-quality product not only gives the skin a refreshing effect, but also ensures dry armpits for a long time;
• the deodorant is easily absorbed without leaving white marks on the skin or clothes;
• has a convenient, compact packaging, thanks to which the product can be carried in a handbag;
• acts depending on the individual characteristics of the body;
• does not irritate the skin, but on the contrary, softens and moisturizes it.
• safety - the product should not contain aluminum salts that clog pores, and synthetic additives that can cause allergic reaction.

The harm of deodorants

Since ancient times, people have tried to ensure that their body smells fragrant, because wet spots under the armpits can ruin their mood and appearance.

As mentioned above, deodorants, due to the content of antibacterial and antimicrobial substances in them, do not allow microorganisms to multiply, which, when in contact with sweat, give off that very unpleasant odor.

Despite all the advantages of such hygiene products, doctors are distrustful of them and do not recommend using antiperspirants regularly. Of course, dry armpits and a well-groomed appearance even in extreme situations are a very attractive prospect, but do not forget that sweating is a normal physiological process, and by blocking the work of the sweat glands, we interfere with the natural characteristics of the body and do not allow it to free itself from accumulated toxins and metabolic breakdown products.

Let's take a closer look at how constant application of anti-sweat and odor products can be dangerous:

• What worries experts most is the presence of aluminum salts in deodorants and antiperspirants; when they come into contact with the skin, these substances penetrate deep into the pores and are carried throughout the body through the bloodstream. The consequences of exposure to chemical compounds can be very disastrous - as a result of the destruction of the hormone estrogen, the appearance significantly worsens and suffers. leather, hair and nails, there is a threat of developing breast cancer, ailments associated with the work of the heart and blood vessels, the nervous system, and metabolism slows down.
• Triclosan is one of the antimicrobial agents that prevents microorganisms from multiplying. Despite many advantages, the substance also has significant disadvantages, in particular, it causes allergies and provokes hormonal imbalances.
• Parabens are a whole range of preservatives, which for the most part are not yet prohibited, but are prohibited among domestic manufacturers. There is an opinion that parabens are equal in degree of harmfulness to aluminum salts and can affect a woman’s hormonal system and cause cancer, however, there is no scientific basis yet.

How to use deodorant correctly

To increase the effectiveness and effect of using deodorants and antiperspirants, do not forget about a few simple rules:

• Dermatologists do not recommend applying antiperspirants more than once a day, and it is better to do this before bed. At night, the functions of the sweat glands weaken, which allows the components of the hygiene product to penetrate the pores much better.
• If you are used to using deodorant in the morning, before going to work, apply it to clean, dry skin of your armpits. This area must be perfectly shaved, otherwise the composition will be distributed unevenly and roll between the hairs, which will significantly worsen the effect.
• Freshly shaved armpit skin can be damaged, so using deodorants, especially if they contain alcohol, can cause irritation and itching.
• It is also not recommended to use the product immediately after a shower; wait at least 10 minutes until all the moisture from the skin evaporates and the components easily penetrate the pores.
• The negative effect of using an antiperspirant can be enhanced by repeated use and application in extreme heat - irritation and a strong smell of the product are guaranteed.
• Perfumed deodorants are contraindicated for allergy sufferers; choose a bottle with a neutral scent or no scent at all.

The best deodorants

Previously, the main requirement that women put forward for deodorant was effective protection against sweat, but now, in conditions of fierce market competition, it is not enough for us to simply have anti-sweat and odor protection products. An antiperspirant should also be safe, have a pleasant and lasting aroma, not cause irritation and gently care for the skin of the armpits. All the products presented in the rating meet these criteria and receive many positive reviews from users.

• NIVEA Antiperspirant Deodorant Powder Effect is the company's latest development, meeting even the most stringent requirements of ladies. Contains kaolin microparticles - a natural antibacterial component that allows you to feel dry and clean for a long time. The deodorant lays on the skin in an even, velvety layer, does not stick and does not leave marks on clothes. Has a refined aroma of bergamot and citrus.
• Dove Beauty Finish antiperspirant deodorant will be a real discovery for girls with skin prone to rashes and irritation. The effect is achieved thanks to a special formula, due to which the product is quickly absorbed, the surface of the body remains velvety and moisturized even after application. hair removal. Moreover, the creamy texture relieves existing irritation.  Available in spray, stick and pencil form.
• Garnier Neo antiperspirant deodorant in the form of a dry cream is another new product on the market of products that save you from sweat and odor. The unusual texture is absorbed in a matter of seconds, gently enveloping the delicate skin of the armpits and protecting from moisture. The deodorant consists almost entirely of natural ingredients - caring oils and wax, which makes it safe.
• Vichy Beauty Deo Anti Transpirant protection 48 hours - has become popular and in demand in record time, the thing is that the company has developed a new product that not only eliminates the smell of sweat, but also slows down hair growth. Now you can shave your armpits much less frequently, which will have a positive effect on the condition of your skin. The downside is the relatively high price.
• DeoIce mineral crystal is a completely unusual anti-sweat remedy, it’s hard to believe, but it consists of 100% solid piece of mineral. A completely natural product without alcohol, preservatives and aluminum salts, does not clog pores, is absolutely hypoallergenic, and has no odor. Indicated for use even by pregnant women and children.