Times have changed quite a bit and now deodorant has become necessary for most of us. We use it daily and enjoy the advantages that it offers. When it comes to these products, it really helps to be properly informed so that you are capable of making the right usage and buying decision. Keep in mind that a deodorant is very different from an antiperspirant. Although they’re so different, many brands choose to manufacture products that combine the two. The main purpose that these products have is to stop or mask body odor.
Sweat is also greatly reduced with the help of deodorants. Although they use it daily, there are quite few people that know its history. The deodorant, as it is known today, was created in 1941 by an individual named Jules Montenier. During those times, this product was sold under a different name, “Stopette”. Later, as the patent worn off, it was sold under various other brands. Another fact that is very little known today is that it was quite irritating for the skin in its initial stage. This aspect would change with the passage of years however.
As previously stated, the main use of the deodorant is to mask or stop body odor caused by sweat. Unlike in the case of antiperspirants, deodorants are classified as cosmetic tools by the FDA and not as drugs. The reason why it’s considered a cosmetic tool is because when applied on an area it prevents bacteria growing instead of preventing it. This means that the body is free to do what it naturally does and sweat, however bacteria is instantly killed. Deodorant mainly helps by balancing the pH level, thus creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria.
The main deodorant ingredients are normally perfume, alcohol and triclosan, although triclosan is not used that often. A good number of deodorant types also throw in antiperspirant it their composition. The main ingredients of antiperspirants include different well-known chemical compounds, such as Zirconium, Tetrachlorohydrex and Aluminum. Keep in mind that the composition of these products can greatly vary from brand to brand and you should keep a close eye on the ingredients for more obscure deodorants.
Deodorants also come in many different types, such as gel, solid, roll on and spray (spray being the most common one). An interesting fact is that the types that are mainly sold and used greatly vary between Europe and the United States. In the states the most popular deodorant types are solid and gel, while in Europe roll on and spray are much more common. It’s good to know, however, that you can get any type no matter of the location.
When it comes to misconceptions, deodorants have had quite a share of these through the years. One of the most well-known ones was spread in the 1990′s and it was about antiperspirants causing breast cancer amongst other things (remember that antiperspirant is commonly found in the composition of deodorants). Later, all of these misconceptions would prove to be inaccurate and false by scientists. One of the most important studies that were conducted was by Europe Journal in 2003.
When it comes to applying deodorant properly, there are a few rules that you should always keep in mind. These are very simple however and many people already know them. The process normally goes like this: you pull of the cap, lift the arm and apply it on the underarm region. The steps vary from deodorant type to type, but they’re very closely related. If you’re noticing any skin discomfort after applying deodorant seek the help of a professional dermatologist immediately!