Deodorant or antiperspirant?
There's a crucial difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant – for your skin, your sweating, and your well-being. In our blog post, you'll learn how body odor develops, what distinguishes the two products, and why more and more people are turning to natural deodorants.
How does body odor actually arise – and what do deodorants and antiperspirants have to do with it?
Whether you use a deodorant or antiperspirant, both products have one thing in common: They're designed to protect against unpleasant body odor. But how does it even arise?
Sweat itself is odorless. It's only when it comes into contact with the natural bacteria on our skin that the typical odors arise. Microorganisms, particularly in the armpits, break down components of sweat, producing odorous metabolic products.
This is precisely where deodorants come in: They prevent odor formation by acting as an antibacterial agent. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, prevent the formation of sweat itself, thereby reducing bacterial growth.
Deodorant or antiperspirant? The subtle but important difference
In everyday life, we often simply refer to "deodorant" when we mean a product that helps combat sweat or odor. But what many people don't realize is that there's a crucial difference between a deodorant and an antiperspirant – and this difference affects our well-being, our skin, and our natural perspiration.
What is an antiperspirant?
An antiperspirant (also called antiperspirant) is designed to reduce sweat production locally.
Antiperspirants usually contain aluminum salts, which deposit in the sweat glands and block the pores. This prevents sweat from escaping, leaving the skin (apparently) dry.
In short : antiperspirants work against sweat formation, not primarily against odor.
Typical characteristics of an antiperspirant:
- Active ingredient: aluminum salts such as aluminum chlorohydrate
- Mode of action: narrowing or blocking of pores
- Goal: Prevent sweating
What is a deodorant?
A deodorant does not combat the sweat itself, but rather the odor that is caused by the breakdown of sweat by bacteria.
It usually contains antibacterial ingredients and often also fragrances to neutralize unwanted body odor.
In short: deodorants neutralize odors but do not inhibit perspiration.
Typical properties of a deodorant:
- Antibacterial agents: e.g., baking soda, zinc oxide, sage, tea tree oil
- Fragrances or essential oils
- Aluminum-free: Deodorants generally do not contain aluminum salts
Why many people prefer deodorants
Conscious decision
More and more consumers are consciously choosing natural deodorants – for health, environmental or ethical reasons:
Sweating is natural: it regulates body temperature and serves to detoxify.
Fewer irritants: Deodorants without aluminum and alcohol are often more skin-friendly.
Transparency and naturalness: Natural cosmetic deodorants rely on plant-based active ingredients instead of aggressive ones.
No pore blockage: The body can continue to regulate without unpleasant odor
🌿 What makes a natural deodorant – and why is it an alternative to antiperspirant?
A natural-based deodorant does not contain ingredients such as aluminum salts or synthetic fragrances and instead relies on plant-based, skin-friendly active ingredients.
These work against odor without blocking natural sweat production.
Typical characteristics of a natural deodorant:
- Aluminum-free
- Without alcohol and parabens
- Antibacterial substances from nature, e.g. baking soda, zinc oxide, sage, tea tree oil
- Pleasant fragrance through essential oils
- Skin-friendly and suitable for sensitive skin
What to do if a natural deodorant doesn't work?
A common reservation when switching from antiperspirant to a natural deodorant is the question: “Does it even work?”
In fact, some people report increased odor or sweating in the first few days or weeks after switching. This is because the skin has to adjust after the sweat glands were previously blocked by an antiperspirant.
This phase usually lasts only a short time. Afterward, the skin flora normalizes, and the deodorant can take full effect.
Tips for the transition:
- Stay patient, plan for 1-2 weeks
- Apply several times a day
- Wear light clothing made of natural fibers
- If necessary, provide additional support with baking soda or sage tea
- Apply in the evening, we sweat at night too.
Conclusion
Naturally fresh – in harmony with the body
Whether deodorant or antiperspirant, the choice depends on personal needs. However, if you want natural freshness while respecting your skin's function, choosing an aluminum-free deodorant is a conscious choice.
Are you interested in natural deodorants?
On our deodorant product page you will find further information and natural alternatives – completely without aluminum, but with great effectiveness.