Do we need deodorant? Experts are in doubt

In this article, we will examine the reasons for and against carrying deodorant or antiperspirant, as well as the best ways to manage body odor without them. Do we need deodorant?

Reasons to use antiperspirant or deodorant

Sweating is an essential bodily function and we sweat to help control body temperature. However, in some cases we sweat more than necessary, which is known as pathological sweating or hyperhidrosis. Sweat itself is odorless, but bacteria on the skin break it down and create it unpleasant smell. In these cases, antiperspirants can be helpful. They work by blocking sweat glands, reducing moisture on the skin and thus reducing body odor.

If you decide to use antiperspirants, them apply in the evening, because we sweat less at night. Thus, they can more effectively form a plug in the sweat gland if you apply them before bed. However, if you do not sweat excessively, blocking sweat secretion with an antiperspirant is not recommended, as it may cause a paradoxical increase in sweat secretion in other areas. In this case, using a deodorant can help neutralize it body odor.

The smell of your sweat can also be affected by your own food. The sweat of people who eat large amounts of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, may smell of sulfur. Some people prefer to use deodorant for a more pleasant smell, while others use it to deal with certain skin problems, such as irritation under the breasts or between the abdominal skin folds.

Reasons against using antiperspirant or deodorant

If you are thinking about giving up deodorants or antiperspirants due to concerns about potentially harmful ingredients or rumors that the use of such products causes cancer, know that these claims have not been scientifically proven. Research on whether there is a causal link between cancer and the use of non-asbestos talc products is also inconclusive.

The use of inorganic ingredients such as aluminum salts in cosmetics and personal care products is a concern for manufacturers and consumers. Although aluminum is used to treat hyperhidrosis, some concerns have been raised about aluminum's role in breast cancer, breast cysts, and Alzheimer's disease. The absorption of aluminum through the skin has not yet been fully explained, and the carcinogenicity of aluminum has not been proven.

Controlling body odor without deodorant

Not using deodorants or antiperspirants can have pros and cons, depending on how you and others feel about your natural body odor. If you stop using deodorant or antiperspirant, you may develop a stronger odor over time. When you stop using these products and sweat more, you create a breeding ground for overgrowth of bacteria and fungi, which can lead to stronger odors.

Do we need deodorant?

Everyday thorough washing is the most important way to prevent unpleasant body odor. Focus on washing your face, underarms and genitals, as they tend to have more sweat than other parts of the body, which can facilitate the overgrowth of microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria. An unusually unpleasant body odor may mean that you are not cleaning your skin properly.

Other ways to reduce the risk of odor by preventing perspiration and bacterial overgrowth include wearing loose, breathable cotton clothing and use antibacterial detergents.