Deodorant: these days, it is a no-brainer for everyday usage. With such a vast array of choices, it can be hard to pick the perfect one that will leave its user feeling refreshed and ready for any challenge. When it comes to deciding on deodorant, it is important to understand a few things: how the product actually works, why scent matters, and which ingredients are being used in the formula. Having been first sold commercially in The United States in the 19th century, the journey of deodorants has come a long way, and has become an important part of women and men’s busy lives. Nowadays, users can find deodorants in many forms, from gels to solids to sprays to even wipes. Furthermore, deodorant is much more than just a product one applies at the beginning of one’s day -- it has become a part of one’s personality.
What Makes Deodorant Work
Though people use deodorant every day, most are not aware of how it actually works. When humans sweat, they release fats and proteins. Armpits become the target region for bacteria to absorb these substances, releasing a strong odor, often referred to as ‘body odor.’ This is where deodorant comes into play. Firstly, deodorant works to eliminate the bacteria, stopping the odor from forming. Secondly, deodorant works as an antiperspirant, decreasing the amount of sweat that the body produces. The active ingredient in most deodorants, aluminum, obstructs the pores that release sweat, enabling the body to stop producing it wherever the deodorant is applied. Over time, deodorant brands have branched out from just predominantly using aluminum in their formula, and now use such alternatives as organic oils to promote natural ingredients.
Finding the Right Scent
With the endless options of deodorants available, it can be difficult to figure out which scent is just right for a particular person. It all comes down to personal preference, whether that is for a strong smell or a subtle one. There are other factors to consider as well. Certain scents are better for certain environments. For instance, feeling fresh is important for starting a busy day out right. A crisp fragrance can leave one feeling clean and professional. On the other hand, a fun, juicy scent like strawberry can be perfect for a summer outing. Even further, a subtle, musky smell could help set the mood for an intimate dinner with a date. In the end, each individual should choose whichever scent pleases them best!
Popular Brands for Women
When it comes to deodorant, women have quite a variety of brands to choose from. Listed below are some of the most popular brands:
- Dove: One of the most recognizable brands in cosmetics and personal care across the globe. Dove prides itself on its inclusivity towards all types of women, with endless options on scent, style and look. The brand boasts deodorant sprays, roll-ons and gels with its most well-known scents involving a fruity or floral scent.
- Secret: Voted the #1 strongest antiperspirant in The U.S., Secret is perfect for women looking for a deodorant that will last during hard work-outs or long hours. The brand sells sprays, roll-ons, gels, and wipes for a quick refresher during a busy day.
- Degree: This brand markets towards the active women of the world, with its most focused products being a ‘motion sensor’ deodorant that activates during more strenuous activities. Additionally, Degree has scents that range from fruity, floral to invisible.
Popular Brands for Men
Men can find a deodorant for just about any life situation. The most popular brands include:
- Old Spice: Recognizable from their famous cheeky commercials, Old Spice is the perfect deodorant for men looking for a fun scent. With fragrance titles like “Volcano,” “Bearglove,” and “Timber,” men can always feel fresh and confident with this environmentally-friendly brand.
- Axe: This brand knows one thing well: a strong scent leaves a lasting impression on all those who smell it. Boasting both aluminum and non-aluminum products, Axe uses a variety of formulas to create long-lasting fragrances for all kinds of men.
- Gillette: Gillette’s tagline explains its company with one phrase: “The best a man can get.” The company has a deodorant for every kind of man doing every kind of activity, while promoting positive masculinity. Fragrances range from strong to subtle, but always leaves one feeling recharged.