As a dermatologist, I'm often asked about the efficacy of deodorants and antiperspirants, and whether they are supposed to prevent sweating. The distinction between deodorants and antiperspirants is crucial to understanding their purpose.
Deodorants are designed to mask or neutralize body odor by killing or inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria. They do not reduce sweating. On the other hand, antiperspirants contain active ingredients that temporarily block the sweat glands, thus reducing the amount of sweat produced.

The active ingredients in antiperspirants are typically aluminum-based compounds, such as aluminum chloride, aluminum zirconium, or aluminum chlorohydrate. These compounds work by forming a temporary gel-like plug within the sweat gland ducts, which helps to prevent the release of sweat onto the skin's surface. It's important to note that this effect is temporary and varies from person to person, depending on factors like skin type, the specific product used, and the frequency of application.

While antiperspirants can be quite effective at reducing sweating, they do not completely stop it. The body still needs to sweat to regulate temperature and remove waste products from the bloodstream. Antiperspirants simply manage the process to make it less visible and less noticeable.

There are various types of antiperspirants available on the market, and not all of them are created equal. Some products are designed to provide long-lasting protection, while others may focus on specific attributes like being scent-free or having a particular fragrance. The effectiveness of an antiperspirant can also be influenced by factors such as the strength of its active ingredients and the method of application.

It's also worth mentioning that some individuals may be sensitive to the active ingredients in antiperspirants, which can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. For these individuals, it's important to choose a product that is hypoallergenic or to consider using a natural alternative.

In conclusion, while deodorants are not meant to prevent sweating, antiperspirants are specifically formulated to reduce or stop underarm sweating. It's essential to choose the right product for your needs and to apply it correctly to achieve the desired effect. And remember, just because a product claims to be an antiperspirant doesn't mean it will work for everyone; individual results can vary.

read more >>

Antiperspirant deodorants have been proven to reduce or altogether stop underarm sweating. Click here to see 20 sweat-busting antiperspirants. But, as you might guess, not all antiperspirants are created equally. Some claim to be scent-free while others (ahem, Axe) market their --sexy-- odor.Aug 26, 2013read more >>