Armpit › Antiperspirant vs deodorant
Antiperspirant vs deodorant
They are often sold together but do different jobs. An antiperspirant reduces how much you sweat. A deodorant deals with the smell.
Not medical advice. General information. Ask a pharmacist or GP if you have skin problems or heavy sweating.
The labels differ by brand, so read the pack. If you have kidney disease or another medical condition, ask a pharmacist before using a stronger product.
The difference in short
| Antiperspirant | Deodorant | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Reduces sweat | Reduces or masks smell |
| How | Acts on the sweat itself | Acts on the smell, usually with fragrance |
| Best for | Wet underarms and sweaty clothes | Odour with only light sweating |
Many products are both: look for "antiperspirant deodorant" on the label. Check the ingredients list if you want to know which you are buying.
How antiperspirants work
An antiperspirant is designed to reduce how much you sweat; a deodorant is designed to deal with smell. The NHS says that for excessive sweating or body odour, a pharmacist can supply stronger antiperspirants without prescription. Ask a pharmacist which suits you, and read the pack instructions.
How to use them for best results
- Apply to clean, dry skin, because dampness can reduce effect and increase irritation.
- Follow the directions on the pack, including whether to apply at night or in the morning. Stronger products often have specific instructions.
- Use a thin layer; more is not necessarily better.
- Let it dry before dressing.
Irritation and allergies
Strong antiperspirants can sting, redden or itch, especially if used right after shaving. If you get irritation, stop and let the skin settle, try a fragrance-free product, or ask a pharmacist for advice. Seek help if the rash persists or you see blistering or swelling.
What about aluminium and health worries?
There are claims online linking antiperspirants and breast cancer. In 2007, Cancer Research UK said there was no evidence of a link between deodorant use and breast cancer risk, and that studies of large groups of people had failed to show a difference between users and non-users. That statement is old, so check Cancer Research UK and the NHS for current advice. If you have a medical condition and worry about an ingredient, ask a pharmacist or doctor.
When products stop working
- Try a different format: roll-on, spray, stick or cream.
- Ask a pharmacist about stronger antiperspirants.
- Heavy sweating may be hyperhidrosis; a GP can discuss other treatments.
- Wash clothing well; see body odour.
Natural deodorants
Natural or aluminium-free deodorants may reduce smell but are not designed to reduce sweat. Any product, natural or not, can irritate sensitive skin, so patch test on a small area first.
Reading labels
Look for aluminium chlorohydrate, aluminium zirconium or aluminium chloride in the ingredients to identify antiperspirants. Deodorant ingredients may include alcohol, triclosan alternatives, fragrance, or zinc and magnesium compounds. If you have sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free or hypoallergenic products, but there is no guarantee they will not irritate. Stop using any product that causes rash or swelling.
If you are unsure which product to choose, a pharmacist can compare options with you in a couple of minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use both antiperspirant and deodorant?
Yes. Many people use both, and many products combine the two.
Where can I get a stronger antiperspirant?
The NHS says a pharmacist can supply stronger antiperspirants without prescription.
Do antiperspirants cause cancer?
Cancer Research UK said in 2007 that there was no evidence of a link. Check current advice from Cancer Research UK and the NHS.