Antiperspirant: what is it, how to choose and use it correctly?

Antiperspirant is actively advertised as the best "protector" from sweat and it is difficult to find a person who would never use it. However, not everyone understands what the action of this cosmetic product is based on, and what ingredients are included in its composition. It is also important to know how to use an antiperspirant, how it differs from deodorant and how to choose the right product from the huge variety of products on the market. In this article you will find answers to these and other questions.

The word "antiperspirant" consists of two parts: "anti", which means "against" and "perspiration", which translates from English as "sweating". Really, antiperspirant helps get rid of sweat and does it very effectively, preventing the process of its secretion. This happens due to the fact that it clogs the ducts of the sweat glands, blocking the exit of fluid into the external environment. Accordingly, the armpits remain dry and they do not emit a characteristic “aroma”.

It should be noted that it is not sweat itself that smells, but bacteria that begin to multiply in a moist environment favorable for this. In this way, antiperspirant, eliminating moisture in the armpit area, eliminates the cause of an unpleasant odor. An additional plus - clothes do not have to be cleaned from yellow unaesthetic stains.

The main component of most antiperspirants is aluminum salts (hydrochloride). They narrow the craters of sweat glands, reducing the amount of fluid secreted by them. Some manufacturers are replacing aluminum compounds with a safer metal - zirconiumHowever, it is more expensive and inferior to its counterpart in efficiency. There are antiperspirants that use a combination of zinc and aluminum in different proportions.

The substances farnesol and triclosan are responsible for the elimination of the smell of sweat. They eliminate bacteria, which, as we have already found out, are its source. But if the effect of farnesol is directed only at "harmful" microorganisms, then triclosan is aggressive in relation to the native microflora, destroying its useful "inhabitants". therefore it is desirable that there is no second substance in the antiperspirant, especially when it comes to a pregnant woman or owner of sensitive skin.

Another important ingredient in almost any sweat-lowering drug is this is cyclomethicone. It creates on the surface of the glands a dense film like silicone, which seals their holes.

Antiperspirants may include various alcoholsfor example, butanol (butyl), which has a drying effect. But if you have a tendency to irritation and allergies, then give preference to alcohol-free products containing various plant extracts and lecithin - they care for the skin, soften and moisturize it.

There are no specific age restrictions on the use of antiperspirant. Until adolescence, it does not make sense to use it - in children, as a rule, there is no pronounced smell of sweat. But if the child has excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), which is accompanied by an unpleasant odor - the use of an antiperspirant is justified. However, first you need to find out the cause of the disease by visiting the endocrinologist and passing all the necessary tests. According to their results, the doctor will prescribe the treatment and recommend a suitable and, most likely, pharmacy drug.

An alternative antiperspirant antiperspirant is deodorant. True, the principle of its action is somewhat different. Let's see how it differs from its competitor and which of these two “fighters” is more effective then.

• They have different tasks. Antiperspirant radically solves the problem of sweat - it inhibits the work of the glands that secrete it. By decreasing their ducts, it reduces sweating and keeps the armpits and other areas dry.

The deodorant also has a milder effect - it only destroys bacteria that multiply in a humid environment. And since they are the cause of the unpleasant odor, then you will definitely not “smell”, however, moisture from the body will not cease to be released. This means that you will not be able to get rid of wet armpits (and unavoidable traces on clothes) with the help of a deodorant, just neutralize their smell.

• The exposure time of one and the other means is proportional to the scale of the tasks that they solve. The deodorant works for a maximum of 5 hours, so you need to use it several times during the day so that the smell of sweat does not appear. Antiperspirant provides protection for a longer period - from 24 to 72 hours, pharmacy drugs can last up to 7 days.
• Since antiperspirant is a stronger drug, it has a significant side effect. By blocking the ducts, it disrupts the process of thermoregulation and prevents excess fluid and toxic substances from leaving the body.The effects of water retention can be overheating of the body and severe swelling. Therefore, you can not constantly use an antiperspirant - a maximum of 2 or 3 times a week. For the gym, respectively, it is also not suitable - it is better to use a deodorant during training.
• The main active ingredients of the antiperspirant we have already described: these are salts of aluminum, zinc and other metals. They reliably protect against the appearance of sweat. The main components of the deodorant are antibacterial substances, as a rule, triclosan and farnesol (they are also present in the antiperspirant, but in a lower dose). You can buy a product based on natural components that have an antibacterial effect, for example, with essential oils. Most deodorants are also equipped with perfumed fragrances.

Which of these two tools to choose? If you do not sweat very much, then you should give preference to deodorant as a milder remedy. And if the sweat “pours hail” from you, but it does not have a strong smell, then only an antiperspirant will cope with this problem. If profuse sweating is accompanied by an aroma that is intolerable to the smell of people around you, antiperspirant deodorants that combine 2 functions are best suited for such cases: reducing sweating and eliminating unpleasant odors.

The same antiperspirant, as a rule, is available in several forms, so that each buyer can choose the most suitable option for themselves.

The following types of antiperspirants can be distinguished.

• Roller (with ball applicator) - It is most in demand among consumers, as it is very compact, effectively removes sweat, having a wide coverage area, and is convenient to use.

• Solid (stick or pencil) - the appearance and application principle are similar to the previous view, but the stick is a less economical option, since the product rests on the skin in a very dense layer. And if he is with talcum powder, then there is a risk of getting unattractive stains on clothes, so you need to apply it half an hour before leaving the house. All this does not prevent the stick from being one of the most popular antiperspirant options, since it forms a dense film on the skin that provides reliable protection against sweat.

• Spray or aerosol - The main advantage is the speed of absorption. It dries immediately after application, leaving no residue on clothing. Another advantage of the spray over previous types of antiperspirants - it can be used by several people without the risk of getting irritation or even infection of the skin from contact with other people's microbes.

• Gel and cream - not only protect against sweat, but also take care of the body. The content of natural ingredients in them is higher than in other forms, so they are most preferred for sensitive thin skin. However, the full absorption process takes about 30 minutes.

• Talc (or powder) with the addition of aluminum salts - they absorb moisture, drying the areas in which you sweat, therefore, are contraindicated for dry skin.

• Antiperspirant wipes and liners - These are disposable antiperspirants. They are not very suitable for permanent use, but in urgent cases or at various events, when it is necessary to provide dry armpits for several hours (most often from 5 to 10), this is an excellent option. They impregnate skin with napkins, preventing the appearance of moisture in the most sweaty areas. And stickers are attached to the body or to clothes, additionally protecting it from stains.

If you have too much sweating (hyperhidrosis), then standard remedies are unlikely to help you. In this case, you need to contact a dermatologist who will prescribe treatment and special pharmacy drugs.Due to the very high concentration of active substances, medical antiperspirants better cope with increased sweating and at the same time provide protection for a longer period (up to a week).

However, they can not be used too often and for too long - this can lead not only to severe inflammatory and purulent processes, but also to the loss of their function by the sweat glands. Usually, pharmacy drugs are used in courses.

An official statement by doctors that antiperspirants are dangerous to health has not been made. Only those products that successfully pass all the necessary tests enter the market. However, research continues today to study the effects of this cosmetic product and its individual ingredients on the human body. And they give cause for concern.

The main concern of scientists is caused by metal salts, especially aluminum hydrochloride, which is found in most antiperspirants in the budget segment. Oncologists believe that metal compounds can cause malignant tumors, especially breast cancer in women. But unequivocal confirmation of this fact does not exist. Also, high concentrations of aluminum can lead to senile dementia, depression and cardiovascular disease.

Parabens - artificial preservatives - can also be part of antiperspirants. Acting as an estrogen substitute, they significantly increase the risk of cancer.

Triclosan - the "destroyer" of microbes - is harmful to people with skin problems, it provokes dermatitis. Also, this antibacterial component “hits” the thyroid gland and can cause a failure of the entire hormonal system.

Some antiperspirants can be found propylene glycogelwhich acts as a humidifier. But the list of its possible side effects is impressive: from banal irritation and various skin diseases to disorders of the nervous system, gastrointestinal upset and malfunctioning of the liver and kidneys.

Talc alone is not dangerous, but in combination with asbestos it turns into a carcinogen (and the presence of asbestos fibers in the composition is not always indicated).

This does not mean that you need to abandon the use of antiperspirants. Just Do not abuse their use and give preference to products with a safer and more natural composition.

Pregnant and lactating women are not recommended to use antiperspirants: the chemicals in their composition can have a negative effect on the formation of the fetus, the health of the mother, and the quality of breast milk. Industrial sweat blockers can be replaced with natural ones: soda, lemon juice or essential oils (for example, tea tree oil).

The abundance of antiperspirants in the modern market raises the logical question: which product and which brand should I prefer?

When choosing an antiperspirant you can be guided by the following criteria.

1. The product should match your skin type. Holders of sensitive skin prone to irritation should choose products with a large number of natural ingredients. Those who have dry skin should avoid alcohol as part of the product - it will dry it even more and may cause peeling and itching.
2. The issue of price is very important for many. However, remember that if you buy too cheap products, especially from little-known manufacturers, you risk your health - they have more aggressive and less useful ingredients.
3. If you have hyperhidrosis, then the decision to choose the appropriate antiperspirant drug is best left to the dermatologist.
4. Perfumes are contraindicated in humans.who have a tendency to allergies.
5. You can give preference to the brandthat you trust. But remember that the “untwisted” brand is not equal to the usefulness and safety of its products. This is especially true of popular brands in the mass market segment.
6. Reviews and recommendations of friends can also help in choosing. However, the body of each person is individual and what came up with one can harm the other. Therefore, focus on people with similar skin characteristics and health status.

We present you 5 effective and gentle antiperspirants from the most popular brands.

• The rating is led by Rexona "Tender and Juicy" - the tool will allow you to forget about the sweat for 48 hours. The composition does not contain alcohol and parabens and contains vitamin E, which nourishes and gently cares for your skin.

• Antiperspirant deodorant Garnier Heo "Delicate flower" Available in the form of a spray and dry cream, it guarantees 100% protection against sweat, smell and stains. The function of the absorbent is performed by the natural mineral perlite. And panthenol makes the skin soft and prevents irritation.

• Antiperspirant Armelle with silver ions combines reliable protection against sweat and smell with a gentle attitude to the skin. The composition of the antiperspirant does not include alcohol, perfumes and carcinogens. But it is saturated with natural ingredients - extracts of chamomile, calendula and sage.

• Antiperspirant Corbaktol from the German manufacturer Gelinghem - an effective "blocker" of sweat, contains plant extracts, as well as panthenol and allantoin, which soothe and soften the skin. Available as a spray only.

• Antiperspirant deodorant Sophisticated by L’Etoile attracts attention with its bright packaging and juicy fruit aromas (apple, raspberry or banana - to choose from). It copes with sweat and smell. It contains harmful triclosan, but it also contains natural ingredients - oak and horse chestnut extracts that protect the sensitive area of ​​the armpits from irritation.

To provide maximum protection against sweat with an antiperspirant and not harm your body, several rules must be observed.

1. The product is applied only to clean and dry skin. Before using an antiperspirant, it is advisable to take a shower or at least wash the armpits, and then wipe them dry. Processing wet areas will not make any sense, since the active substances will not be able to penetrate through the water layer to the sweat glands to block them.
2. Many apply an antiperspirant in the morning, before leaving home. It is not right. Experts advise using it in the evening, so that during the night the active components have time to completely absorb and form a protective layer that prevents sweat from reaching the surface. Even the morning shower is not able to destroy it.
3. Antiperspirant action lasts at least 24 hours, therefore, it is applied only 1 time per day so as not to sweat all day.
4. After hair removal should pass 48 hoursbefore you can apply an antiperspirant. But if in the process of shaving you damaged your skin, then you need to wait for the wounds to heal so that aluminum salts do not penetrate the blood through cuts.
5. The antipyretic must not come into contact with the inflamed surface.otherwise the irritation will only intensify. Wait until the redness disappears, the burning sensation stops and only then use the drug. Bepanten or baby cream will help soothe irritated skin.
6. Do not apply generously - a thin layer is enough to clog the sweat glands.
7. Aerosol must be sprayed at a distance of at least 15 cm. Remember to shake the can before use.
8. Be sure to check the expiration date of the product, protects against sweat.If it has expired, then you will not only not get the desired result, but also harm the skin. Give preference to products with a short shelf life - they contain less chemicals and more natural components, which means they will be much more beneficial for your body.
9. Remember to rinse off at the end of the day.
10. Do not use antiperspirant while playing sports, also do not apply it if you plan a trip to the bathhouse or sauna. The tool will prevent the outflow of water from the body, which will lead to an increase in body temperature and other negative consequences.
11. It is not recommended to use an antiperspirant before a solarium or going to the beach - you run the risk of getting age spots.
12. Do not use other people's antiperspirants and do not give your - the skin can react poorly to the appearance of foreign microorganisms.

The choice of antiperspirants today is huge, for each of them on the Internet you can find many reviews. People share their experience of using a specific tool, describe its pros and cons, on the basis of which they render their verdict on the effectiveness and usefulness of a certain “potent blocker”. After reading the responses to different drugs, you can decide for yourself which one is worth a try.

Means Corbaktol from the German manufacturer Gelinghem works very effectively. But there is a problem that buyers face: this drug can not be bought everywhere. And its cost is far from being in the budget segment itself.

Most of us are not ready to give up the usual and comfortable way to get rid of sweat in favor of folk remedies, which, although safer, but not so effective. This is optional. The main thing is to choose a high-quality antiperspirant and use it correctly.

See how to choose an antiperspirant and use it correctly in the next video.