What is an Antiperspirant and How Do They Work?

a man and a woman stretching, excessive backsweat

HOW DO ANTI-PERSPIRANTS WORK?

The active ingredients are aluminium salts, which dissolve into the moisture on your skin. This forms a gel, which reduces the amount of sweat you release.

Anti-perspirants also contain things called antimicrobials, which work to kill the bacteria that cause body odour helping you stay fresher for longer.

Some anti-perspirants also contain alcohol, which helps them dry faster and creates that pleasant, cool feeling on your skin. And some will have added skin conditioners, to keep your underarms feeling soft.

The active ingredients are aluminum salts, which dissolve into the moisture on your skin.

WHAT ARE ANTI-PERSPIRANT DEODORANTS?

These effectively do two jobs in one. They stop sweat and also contain a fragrance, to help mask body odour. There are four main types: aerosol, roll-on, stick, and cream soft solid. So, what are the advantages of each?

Aerosols

– great if you’re pushed for time, as they dry instantly.

Roll-ons

– give good wetness protection and are quick and easy to apply.

Sticks

– come in a solid block with a big surface area; perfect if you sweat a lot.

Cream soft solids

– give you added protection right where you need it.

ARE ANTI-PERSPIRANTS SAFE TO USE?

The short answer is, yes. You may have seen newspaper or internet stories that link anti-perspirant and deodorant use to breast cancer. But cancer experts, charities and world health authorities all say there’s no credible evidence to support this claim.

Anti-perspirants and deodorants are rigorously tested and there’s no scientific research to suggest that they’re damaging to your health. But if you’re interested in reading more, please visit What's an antiperspirant?

SENSITIVE SKIN? THESE TIPS MAY HELP

Some people find they’re sensitive to anti-perspirants and deodorants, particularly under their armpits, which can lead to irritation or a rash. If that sounds like you, you may want to:

Check the active ingredients before you buy and look for aluminium and alcohol-free products – aluminium can irritate some people’s skin and alcohol can dry it out.

Use a fragrance-free anti-perspirant or deodorant. This may help if you’re sensitive to perfumes, or have a history of eczema.

Try using a moisturiser alongside your anti-perspirant or deodorant.

If you’re still concerned about any skin irritation you’re experiencing, it may be worth having a chat with your doctor, to get further advice.

Body Heat Activated™. THE MORE YOU MOVE,THE MORE IT WORKS

This really does change the game for anti-perspirant deodorants – and for you. Because you can feel fresh and super-confident, however much you’re moving during your day.

Tiny microcapsules sit on the surface of your skin. Then, as your body temperature rises, heat bursts the capsules, releasing more fragrance. So, the more you move, the more it protects you from body odour.

It’s the only fragrance technology that reacts directly to your body heat in this way. So whenever your day steps up a notch, you’ll know Body Heat Activated™ has your back.

And the best part? It’s included in all our product ranges. Click to find out more about Body Heat Activated™.

Which Anti-perspirant Should I Use?