Deodorant and Antiperspirant are not interchangeable

What's in a name?

Have you ever wondered why some products for underarm odor are called deodorant, and the other is an antiperspirant? While we often use the terms interchangeably, antiperspirants and deodorants actually have two different functions. The question is, which one best benefits you?

One prevents odors, and the other masks them. The names tell us which product does what, but perhaps you never thought about it before. De-odorant: Gets rid of odors. Anti-perspirant: Stops perspiration/sweating.

The function of an antiperspirant

The primary goal of an antiperspirant is to stop sweat from reaching the surface of your skin. Most contain aluminum-based compounds (Aluminum zirconium or Aluminum chlorohydrate) that, once applied, dissolve into your sweat ducts and form a temporary "plug."

An antiperspirant blocks moisture to prevent sweating. If there’s no sweat, there’s no environment for bacteria to thrive in. This product works best for those who deal with heavy activity, wetness, and sweat stains.

Deodorant stops the smell

If you thought your deodorant was killing germs and preventing perspiration, you would be wrong. Your deodorant doesn't care if you sweat; it just wants to make sure that sweat doesn't have an odor. This is why you may have had days where you were sweating profusely but did not stink.

Sweat itself is actually odorless. The smell happens when bacteria on your skin break down the proteins in your sweat. Deodorants use antimicrobial agents to kill bacteria and fragrances to mask any odor that may escape.

When you use a deodorant, you still feel wet under your arms, but you will smell like whatever scent is in the product you used instead of smelling like a locker room.

Deodorant contains alcohol, baking soda, charcoal, or essential oils. This product is best for those who desire to stay fresh, who don't sweat much, or who want to avoid aluminum.

Some considerations to keep in mind

If you use antiperspirant, apply it at night before bed as your sweat glands are less active while you sleep. This allows the aluminum salts to settle into the pores more effectively than if you apply it just before a workout.

Deciding between an antiperspirant and a deodorant depends on whether you want to stop sweat or simply stop odor. Be sure to read labels so you will know which product you are purchasing.

When shopping in grocery stores, you will find that most "deodorants are labeled as "Antiperspirant & Deodorant") are a combination of both.

Are aluminum products safe?

There have been some reports over the decades that aluminum gets into the bloodstream. Some scientists have expressed concern that because the underarms are near the breasts, aluminum in antiperspirants might cause breast cancer.

Products with this ingredient were said to be unsafe and should be avoided. New studies debunk the idea that aluminum can get into the bloodstream or cause cancer, but these possible risks are something to keep in mind when you are choosing an antiperspirant. There is no aluminum in deodorant.

Decades ago, there was a limited number of deodorants and antiperspirants on the market. Today, there are many choices,, which can be ordered online, and the benefit of reading reviews.

Keep in mind that even if everyone gives a glowing review, a product that works for ninety-nine individuals may not benefit #100. it;s also important to pay attention to ingredients and make sure you are not having an allergic reaction. The choice is yours. Will you use a Deodorant, an antiperspirant or a product that contains both?