Deodorants are part of the daily hygiene care products we use. They do not block sweat production in the armpits (they are not antiperspirants) but fight against sweat odors. It is important to know the different types of deodorant to choose the one that meets your needs. Whether in roll-on, spray, cream/gel, or stick form, deodorants come in various formats, which you can find in this article.
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The different types of deodorant.
Summary
Published August 10, 2022,
updated on August 7, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
8 min read
In what form can a deodorant exist?
There are several forms of deodorants. Discover what differentiates them from each other:
The sprays :
This form of deodorant is valued for its convenience. The sprays are easy to apply and transport. In this form, the deodorant is more often an antiperspirant. It comes in the form of a fluid liquid that blocks perspiration and appears as a dry powder once applied under the armpits. Spray antiperspirants are also appreciated for the feeling of freshness they provide upon application. They are now available in mini format, to slip into your handbag or elsewhere.
Nevertheless, antiperspirants in spray formats often contain alcohol to accelerate the drying time on the skin. To avoid any irritation, be sure not to choose a deodorant with alcohol derivatives.
Roll-ons, also known as ball deodorants :
Equally practical and ergonomic, roll-on deodorants provide a certain level of moisture to the underarm area that combats the formation of bacteria responsible for bad odors. However, this moisture is temporary and dries quickly.
The stick deodorants :
Also referred to as stick deodorant, the stick is the solid format of deodorant/antiperspirant. It often contains nourishing ingredients such as butters and provides a pleasant and rich texture.
The creams :
New to the market, deodorant creams are recommended for sensitive skin as they often contain ingredients to hydrate and nourish the skin. They are also generally formulated without alcohol.
Classic Deodorant or Organic/Natural: Which One to Choose?
In recent years, traditional antiperspirants and deodorants have become controversial due to certain components:
Aluminum salts :
Aluminum salts are present in many antiperspirants to combat perspiration. They can be identified on I.N.C.I. lists under the following names: Aluminium Chloryde, Aluminium Chlorohydrate, Aluminium Chlorydrex, Aluminium Sesquichlorydrate, Aluminium Zirconium. When applied to the skin, aluminum salts precipitate and bind with dead skin cells, forming plugs that block sweat glands and thus inhibit perspiration. Additionally, aluminum salts are bactericidal. They therefore eliminate the bacteria that are present in large quantities in the armpits and are responsible for bad odors.
Several studies have correlated the presence of aluminum salts in breast cells with the development of malignant tumors and thus, breast cancer. Even thoughthe SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) in Europe issued a report in 2019 attesting to the verylow skin absorption (around 0.00052%) of aluminum salts, including on shaved or waxed skin, by the principle of precaution, it is still preferable to exclude them from daily hygiene products.
The parabens :
Some deodorants contain parabens due to their antimicrobial properties. However, these compounds are recognized as endocrine disruptors (= substances that can interfere with hormonal balance). Therefore, avoid choosing a deodorant that contains, for example, Butylparaben or Propylparaben in its INCI list.
The triclosan :
This ingredient serves as an antimicrobial agent, preservative, and deodorant. However, it is a potential endocrine disruptor and suspected carcinogen as well as a potential skin and eye irritant. Its concentration is now regulated in deodorants (other than in spray form): it must not exceed 0.3%.
Talc :
This mineral powder is recognized for its effectiveness in absorbing moisture and excess perspiration. However, talc is widely controversial today. In 2012, ANSES concluded that it was not possible to rule out the presence of asbestos fibers in some talc deposits. Moreover, studies have demonstrated harmful effects on the respiratory system following the inhalation of talc.
Alcohol :
Ethanol is often added to traditional deodorants for its antiseptic properties and with the aim to reduce drying time. However, this compound has a strong drying effect and can cause irritations, redness, and tingling in the underarm area.
All the compounds listed above are generally excluded from the formulas of organic and natural deodorants. These instead contain gentler alternatives that are kinder to the skin and the environment, such as the following ingredients:
The baking soda.
An alternative solution to aluminum salts, sodium bicarbonate possesses naturally absorbent, odor-neutralizing, and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritated skin.
Clays :
Thanks to their microporous structures, certain clays such as diatomaceous earth powder or even white clay are drying agents that can absorb their weight in moisture. Their antibacterial action also acts on the bacteria present on the skin, thus limiting the appearance of bad odors.
Certain essential oils :
The essential oil of choice for combating underarm perspiration is that of palmarosa. However, others have also proven effective, such as those of clary sage or lavender.
The Triethyl Citrate :
This compound, approved for organic use, is produced through a process of esterification of citric acid with ethanol. Due to its ability to inhibit the enzymatic decomposition of sweat components, it effectively combats body odors. Additionally, it exhibits antibacterial properties.
What about alum stone?Alum stone is not as natural as its name suggests. It can even sometimes be a 100% synthetic stone made from Ammonium Alum or synthetic Ammonium Sulfate, a byproduct of the nylon chemical industry. In all cases, whether natural or synthetic, alum stone contains aluminum salts.
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