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

With the onset of the summer period, many women begin to worry about such an urgent problem as moisture stains on clothes and an unpleasant smell of sweat, because they can spoil the impression of even the most stylish image and impeccable makeup. Each lady is simply obliged to think about which remedy 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, in fact, has neither color nor smell. An unpleasant effect is provoked by bacteria that actively multiply in a warm, humid environment, as a result of which a "sweat smell" appears.

In the modern world, the use of deodorants has long become the norm and a standard hygienic procedure, such as brushing your teeth. Practically everyone - men, women and adolescents - use remedies to prevent the appearance of sweat discharge. However, not everyone understands the principle of their action, despite the variety of species and producers.

Deodorants are divided into two main groups:

• Conventional deodorants work to neutralize germs that cause sweat smell and mask it with antibacterial additives.
• Antiperspirant deodorant has a different principle of work - it blocks the secretion of sweat from the sebaceous glands, respectively, preventing moisture and odor.

Types of deodorants:

• Deodorants in the form of eau de parfum have two undeniable advantages - they have a pleasant scent, they can be applied as a perfume and used regularly. But there are still more disadvantages - such deodorants do not contain antibacterial additives, so the effect is enough for only a few hours, instead, alcohol is added to the product, which, with constant use, dries the skin, this option is more suitable for the oily type.
• Sprays are the most popular form of deodorant at the moment - they are convenient to use, as they are sprayed on a specific area of ​​the skin and it is easy to control. It does not have the main drawback of all such 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 type of skin. Cons - protection from odor does not last long, a massive bottle can explode when exposed to direct sunlight.
• The advantage of a stick-shaped deodorant is its compactness, ease of use and relative health safety. 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.
• The most economical option is considered to be a roll-on deodorant, it is easy to distribute over the problem area thanks to the rotating ball. Of the minuses - it dries longer than other deodorants, it may contain alcohol.
• A relatively new type of deodorant is a special powder - powder or talc, which can act as an antiperspirant. They are applied directly after a shower on perfectly dry skin, they are more suitable for owners of oily type. Cons - stains, not suitable for everyday use.

How to choose a deodorant

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

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

• a quality product not only gives the skin a refreshing effect, but also ensures dry armpits for a long time;
• deodorant absorbs easily without leaving white marks on skin or clothing;
• has a convenient, compact package, thanks to which the product can be carried in a handbag;
• acts depending on the individual characteristics of the organism;
• does not irritate the skin, but rather softens and moisturizes it.
• safety - the product must not contain pore-clogging aluminum salts 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 the same unpleasant odor.

Despite all the advantages of such hygiene products, doctors are suspicious of them and do not advise using antiperspirants on a regular basis. Of course, dry armpits and a well-groomed appearance even in extreme situations is 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 get rid of accumulated toxins and metabolic decay products.

Let's take a closer look at what the constant application of antiperspirant and odor products can be dangerous:

• Most of all, specialists are concerned about the presence of aluminum salts in antiperspirant deodorants, when in contact with the skin, these substances penetrate deep into the pores and are carried throughout the body with the bloodstream. The consequences of exposure to chemical compounds can become very deplorable - as a result of the destruction of the hormone estrogen, the appearance deteriorates significantly, suffers leather, hair and nails, there is a threat of the development of breast cancer, ailments associated with the work of the heart and blood vessels, the nervous system, the metabolism slows down.
• Triclosan is one of the antimicrobial agents that prevents microorganisms from multiplying. Despite the many advantages, the substance also has significant disadvantages, in particular, it causes allergies and provokes hormonal disruptions.
• Parabens are a number of preservatives, which for the most part have not yet been banned, but are banned among domestic producers. There is an opinion that parabens are equivalent to aluminum salts in terms of harmfulness and can affect the hormonal system of a woman and cause cancer, however, there is no scientific justification yet.

How to use deodorant correctly

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

• Dermatologists advise against applying antiperspirants more often than once a day, and it is better to do this before bed. At night, the function of the sweat glands is weakened, 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 underarm skin. This area must be perfectly shaved, otherwise the composition will be unevenly distributed, roll down between the hairs, which will noticeably worsen the effect.
• Freshly shaved underarm skin can be injured, 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 for all moisture from the skin to evaporate and the components freely penetrate into the pores.
• The negative effect of using an antiperspirant can be intensified by repeated use and application in extreme heat - irritation and a pungent smell of the product are guaranteed to you.
• Perfumed deodorants are contraindicated for allergy sufferers, choose a bottle with a neutral scent or none at all.

Best deodorants

Earlier, the main requirement that women put forward for deodorant was effective protection against sweat, but now, in the conditions of fierce market competition, it is not enough for us just to have remedies for sweat and odor. An antiperspirant must also be safe, have a pleasant and persistent scent, not cause irritation and gently care for the skin of the armpits. All funds presented in the rating meet these criteria and receive a lot of positive feedback from users.

• Antiperspirant deodorant NIVEA Powder effect - the latest development of the company, meets even the most stringent requirements of women. Contains kaolin microparticles - a natural antibacterial component that makes you feel dry and clean for a long time. The deodorant lays down on the skin in an even, velvety layer, does not stick and does not leave marks on clothes. It has an exquisite bergamot and citrus aroma.
• Dove Beauty Finish antiperspirant deodorant will be a real discovery for girls with skin prone to breakouts and irritation. The effect is achieved thanks to a special formula, due to which the product is quickly absorbed, the body surface remains velvety and moisturized even after epilation... What's more, the creamy texture relieves existing irritation. Available in spray, stick and pencil form.
• Garnier Neo Antiperspirant Deodorant Dry Cream is another new addition to the antiperspirant and antiperspirant market. 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 fact is that the company has developed a newest product that not only eliminates the smell of sweat, but also slows down hair growth. Now you can shave the armpit area much less often, which will have a positive effect on the condition of the skin. The disadvantage is the relatively high price.
• DeoIce Mineral Crystal is a totally unusual antiperspirant, hard to believe, but it is 100% solid from a single piece of mineral. Completely natural product without alcohol, preservatives and aluminum salts, does not clog pores, absolutely hypoallergenic, odorless. It is indicated for use even by pregnant women and children.