A deodorant is a product that leaves a pleasant smell upon the skin. This smell masks body odor. A deodorant need not contain any active ingredient to stop perspiration. That is done by antiperspirants.

What is an antiperspirant?

Antiperspirants have an active ingredient that blocks the sweat in the glands. By blocking the sweat producing glands the Antiperspirants effectively stops the sweat coming out. Aluminum-based compounds are used as active ingredients in Antiperspirants. The most common and preferred compound in use now is- Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Glycine. US FDA has approved many other compunds of aluminium for use as Antiperspirant. But the preferred one is - Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Glycine.

US FDA categorizes Antiperspirants as OTC drug while it categorizes Deodorants as cosmetics. To get US FDA certification the Antiperspirant must comply with the conditions set by FDA. So look for US FDA approval on the pack if you have any doubt.

Use-

The manufacturer gives guideline for use of the Antiperspirants. Remember that the places where you may be using Antiperspirants such as groin area, and underarms have sensitive sin. Also these areas receive very less air and skin-to-skin contact is present most of the times. This can cause allergic reactions in many people. Use the Antiperspirants in little quantity to begin with and watch for reactions.

How To Choose an Antiperspirant-

The choice may depend on the fragrance used in the product. Ideally one should use Antiperspirants that has no fragrance to avoid allergic reactions. But most of us want our Antiperspirants to smell good.

The feel after application on the skin may be another factor. And most important - how much the product works for you? Does it stop perspiration completely for about 24 hours? If yes, that is one for you. Next time you are looking to fight problem of perspiration, read the product label carefully to know if it is only perfume or an antiperspirant.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.