Deodorants, which one to choose?
Roll-on, spray, cream, aloe vera, moisturiser.... there are many types of deodorants in existence today, but how do we know which is the best one for us?
TRIED AND TESTED
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Today, there is a great variety of deodorants and antiperspirants, so much so that we often don't know which to choose, it all depends on our needs: to eliminate perspiration, to smell ice, have long-lasting ones, non-staining on clothes....
Main factor: perspiration
Perspiration, per se, does not smell bad: it is made of a complex of water and salts that regulates the temperature of our body and which, at the same time, eliminates water and toxins; the natural temperature of the body rotates around 37º, but when, for any reason (climate, nervousness, etc.), it varies, the body reacts by secreting perspiration to cool our body and recover the thermal balance. It is at this point that perspiration meets bacteria and the odour is produced.
Perspiration, as such, does not smell bad. It is the bacteria that live in it that produce the bad odour which is characteristic of perspiration.
Deodorant or antiperspirant?
The main function of deodorant is to mask any potential bad odour with a pleasant smell and is usually effective for 10 to 12 hours, i.e. the body perspires normally, it perspires but does there is no odour because deodorant controls the growth of bacteria. These products are not recommended for people with a strong body odour.
Antiperspirants, on the other hand, prevent the secretion of perspiration by blocking the sweat glands and in this way they regulate perspiration; they usually last longer than deodorants and also prevent the growth of bacteria, while the bacterial effect in deodorants is less and much less long-lasting.
People suffering from hyperhidrosis (excessive perspiration) are usually advised to use antiperspirants. For the rest, it depends on your lifestyle: a sedentary person only needs to use deodorant once a day, but people who, for example, practice sports, will need to use it more often.
Before choosing the product, it is also important to make sure that you are not allergic to any of the compounds, and of course, an exercise in trial-and-error also plays an important role, so you will need to keep trying products until you find the one that best suits your needs.
Distintos formatos, diferentes usos
SPRAY
Allows the product to be sprayed all over the body and even over clothes, it is very easy to use, feels fresh and can be used with antiperspirants or alcohol-based deodorants, nowadays we can find 'mini' formats to take with you in your handbag or when you go on a trip.
ROLL-ON
Very practical, it soaks the skin with a liquid that is immediately absorbed and produces a pleasant sensation of freshness. Sharing this product is not recommended, as it is in direct contact with the skin.
STICK
This format does not usually leave stains and is also one of the most durable and economical type, and just like the roll-on, it is better not to share.
CREAM
It is mainly intended for sensitive skins because it does not usually contain alcohol; be careful because it sometimes stains clothes.
Apart from the different types, today we can find specific deodorants to, for example, delay the appearance of hair, for sensitive skin or ones that are stain-resistant... There is a great variety available for all tastes.
Practical advise
- Wash the area with soap and water before applying the product and before going to bed. You should not use it for more than 24 hours.
- Dry your skin thoroughly before putting on the deodorant.
- Wait for the skin to absorb it before putting your clothes on.
- If you have just waxed, wait a few hours before applying it.
- The use of antiperspirants is not recommended at night.
- If your skin is sensitive to alcohol or other products such as perfume allergens, check the ingredients before choosing the product.
- Deodorants are not necessary before puberty.
