What the Difference Between Deodorant and Antiperspirant Is
Applying deodorant or antiperspirant is likely the most important part of your routine, as they both may provide freshness all day long. However, there are certain differences between these products that can make one or the other the best option according to your needs.
5-Minute Crafts will show you how deodorant and antiperspirant compare, along with some useful tips to make them more effective.
❗Important: This article has been created for informative purposes only and does not replace professional advice. We advise you to consult your doctor if you experience excessive sweat or any other problem related to perspiration.
The difference between deodorant and antiperspirant
- Deodorant eliminates and masks armpit odor, but it doesn’t control perspiration. It’s usually alcohol-based, and when you apply it to your skin, it makes it acidic and, as a consequence, is less appealing to bacteria that cause odor. Moreover, it typically contains fragrance and it’s considered a cosmetic product.
- On the other hand, antiperspirant controls sweat by temporarily blocking the pores through its aluminum-based ingredients, which results in a decreased amount of perspiration. At the same time, antiperspirant is classified as a drug by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because this product is intended to affect body structures or the way the body functions.
How to choose between one product or the other
It all depends on the kind of protection you need. For instance, if you don’t sweat excessively or perspiration is not something you worry about, you can opt for a deodorant to keep your skin fresh all day.
However, if sweat makes your armpits feel sticky and uncomfortable most of the time, or you’re planning on having a hectic day, it may be a better idea to choose an antiperspirant, as it will allow you to stay dry for longer.
💡 Today, it’s possible to find products that act as both antiperspirants and deodorants, which means that they’re capable of offering protection against moisture and bad smells at the same time. These may be available in spray, stick, and roll-on forms so that you don’t have to choose between one or the other to feel comfortable all day long.
Tips for using deodorant
- Apply it when your skin is dry and clean, preferably after you shower.
- Reapply deodorant throughout the day if you want to make sure you feel fresh for longer. For the best results, clean your underarms with a cleansing cloth and dry them before reapplying the product.
- Wait until your deodorant is dry before getting dressed since this will prevent stains from forming on your clothes.
Tips for using antiperspirant
- Go for a thin layer of antiperspirant when applying it to your skin rather than the opposite, as this may be enough to keep you dry.
- Apply antiperspirant at nighttime to get better results since this may give the product enough time to be absorbed into your skin.
- Apply antiperspirant to your underarms and any other part of your body you’re concerned about sweating. However, avoid areas with mucous membranes, such as the eyes, mouth, and genitals.