It is quite easy to get intimidated by the rows and rows of deodorants and antiperspirants at the drug store. They are so many in the market today, all promising the best results with some even going to the extent of promising 48-hour protection. When choosing deodorant, avoid getting sucked into the marketing gimmick. Instead, take your time and choose a product that is realistically capable of handling your body odor issues. The following are some of the factors to consider
- All-day protection
Deodorant that gives 24 or 48-hour protection is unrealistic. This is just a marketing strategy to get you to buy. You may never get to test the theory because it is rare to spend more than 48 hours without a shower. A good deodorant should promise all day freshness without the need for reapplication.
- Fragrance free
The deodorant should be labeled fragrance-free or scent-free and should not have any smell whatsoever. Unless it is completely sealed, you can pop the top and find out for yourself. Fragrance is often not useful in most cosmetic products. It is just added to give it more appeal. Fragrance is a problem for almost all skin types but the results are far worse for allergy-prone skin or people with conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
- All-natural products
Choose a deodorant made of all natural products. Some of the chemicals used in the manufacture of deodorants can be quite toxic leading to skin irritations, rashes and itchiness. They may eventually lead to more serious conditions such as cancer. All natural deodorants do not block the sweat ducts and therefore do not interfere with perspiration. They provide deodorizing benefits and eliminate odor-causing bacteria from the skin, leaving you feeling refreshed.
- Deodorant Vs Antiperspirant
These two products often have a similar function and that is why they are usually placed side-by-side on the shelf. However, remember to read the product label carefully so see whether it is an antiperspirant or a deodorant. Antiperspirants block the sweat ducts and reduce or prevent perspiration all together to eliminate odors. Deodorant, on the other hand, does not interfere with perspiration. The bacterial fighting ingredients simply reduce bad odors but do not prevent sweating which is a natural function of the body. It is advisable to choose a deodorant over an antiperspirant, especially if you do not have major issues with perspiration.
- Watch out for harmful ingredients
Read the label for the deodorant ingredients. If you have suffered from irritation and itchiness when using deodorant before, you could blame it on the following ingredients:
- Parabens-found in everyday cosmetics and disturb the body’s hormonal balance
- Aluminum compounds- plug the sweat ducts and eventually get absorbed by the skin
- Silica- a known skin irritant, may be contaminated with crystalline quartz (carcinogen)
- Triclosan- skin irritant
- Propylene Glycol – leads to delayed allergic reactions and a neurotoxin
- Steareth-n – a known carcinogen (capable of causing cancer)
——–
This article was written by Sujain Thomas for The September Standard. Thomas has been involved in the production of various cosmetic products. Looking for the best deodorant for women, visit http://www.vi-tae.com/
