Smart Shopping for Deodorant

For almost anyone, perspiration can become a serious problem. When it comes to deodorants, all are powerful antiperspirants that work to reduce perspiration and cover up odor. Classified as a cosmetic and not a drug, deodorants are in most cases chemicals--either natural or synthetic.

A popular type of deodorant is the roll-on. Because it's applied by rubbing vigorously around the desired area, you can achieve a stronger application. A spray, while convenient, is not as powerful as a solid. So while it's widely seen as a quick and convenient solution to short-term body odor problems, it's more of an external solution than other types of deodorant.

Gel deodorant is applied in small rations that are squeezed out onto the top of the canister and then rubbed onto the underarms. It's cold, but it's a good alternative because it penetrates the skin since it is more liquid than solid.

What to Look for

Whenever you buy deodorant or any product that goes on your skin, read the ingredients, usually in very tiny print on the back of the label. This is critical because what you put on your skin can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream, and harmful ingredients in your blood can have irritating or potentially deadly effects on your body.

Different brands of deodorant have different ingredients that either mask or block odors coming from the body. But not everyone's body chemistry is the same, and not all deodorants will be effective. You need to experiment and find which brand of deodorant works best for you. It all comes down to personal preference as to which brand works best. If you're like most people, when you select one brand, you will probably stick with using it for a long time.

Common Pitfalls

Choosing the best deodorant to use depends on what you want to accomplish and also on whether you are a man or a woman. Try to avoid aluminum compounds. Aluminum is absorbed through the skin and accumulates in the body.

Also, avoid deodorants with parabens. All are derived from toluene, a toxic petrochemical derivative. There is some evidence that repeated exposure to toluene may cause reproductive harm. Triclosan is a skin irritant and may cause contact dermatitis. It may kill healthy bacteria as well as harmful bacteria. To make sure that the products you buy are healthy and free of harmful chemicals, call the deodorant manufacturer and ask for detailed information. Natural, organic deodorants work well to control body odors.

No deodorant can stand out as the best. Each person's body differs, and so will the best deodorant for them.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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