ExploreChief.com | Deodorants and antiperspirants – Types, benefits, and top picks

Deodorants and antiperspirants are two different products that contain different ingredients and are designed for specific purposes. Deodorants help reduce any malodor caused by sweating, while antiperspirants help reduce and control sweating. Some brands have also combined both in one product. However, people who want to prevent body odor should use a deodorant, and those with excessive sweat should pick an antiperspirant. Before buying one, you must know the different types of deodorants and antiperspirants.

Main types of deodorants
Deodorants and antiperspirants are available in many forms that are easy to use. They contain zinc, aluminum and fragrances that block the odor from sweat. You can also find some products that combine both and are available as antiperspirant-deodorants.

The main types of deodorants are:

Sprays
Roll-ons
Gels
Solids
Invisibles

Antiperspirants contain small amounts of aluminum salts that block the sweat pores and prevent sweating. Doctors recommend antiperspirants for people with hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating. The common types of antiperspirants are:

Creams
Powders
Sprays
Towels
Roll-ons

Benefits of using deodorants and antiperspirants
Our sweat glands produce sweat to regulate our body temperature and reduce heat. We have more sweat in our armpits as they have more sweat glands. Sweat by itself does not have an odor but starts smelling when the bacteria in the armpits break it down. And when the clothes start soaking in the armpit sweat, the odor worsens. The main benefits of deodorant antiperspirants are odor control, good fragrance, and improved self-esteem and self-confidence for those who suffer from bad odor and excessive sweating.

DIY deodorants and antiperspirants
Long-term use of deodorants antiperspirants can increase the risk of allergies and breast cancer. To avoid such risks, you can prepare antiperspirant deodorants at home using natural ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, and baking soda by following these simple DIY methods:

Combine ½ cup melted coconut oil, ¼ cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder, ¼ cup baking soda and ¼ teaspoon of your favorite essential oil. Transfer to a jar and apply as needed.
Combine ¼ cup shea butter, 2 tablespoons coconut oil, 3 tablespoons of beeswax pellets, 2 tablespoons of arrowroot powder, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and 10 to 20 drops of essential oil. Use a double boiler to heat shea butter and coconut oil, add beeswax and stir until the mixture becomes liquid. Add the remaining ingredients, transfer to a jar, and use as needed.
Combine ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup distilled water, 30 drops of lemon essential oil, and 15 drops of lavender oil. Transfer to a spray can and use this as a deodorant spray.

Popular deodorants and antiperspirants for men
To find the right product, read the ingredients label, check if they contain any allergens, and look for approvals from FDA. It is always advisable to carry a deodorant or antiperspirant in your bag, leave one in your office, and one in your gym bag.

Some of the best-selling and popular deodorants and antidepressants for men include: