Do We Really Need Deodorant?

Why do we sweat?

We sweat to cool down our bodies when they get too hot from exercise, heat, or stress. It's our natural way of preventing overheating and maintaining a stable body temperature.

What’s up with BO?

Body odor is primarily caused by bacteria on the skin breaking down sweat, sebum and keratin; especially in areas like the armpits. The sweat itself is odorless, but the bacterial breakdown of these skin secretions produces that stank.

How to limit sweat and BO

Deodorant

Deodorant masks or neutralizes body odor. It works by using antimicrobial agents to kill odor-causing bacteria and fragrances to limit body odor. However, fragrances can irritate sensitive skin and may worsen odor when mixed with bacteria.

Antiperspirant

Antiperspirant works by using aluminum salts or compounds to temporarily block sweat glands, reducing sweat. Fragrances used in antiperspirants can cause similar BO issues as deodorants when interacting with underarm bacteria. If you notice an issue, it may be best to go with an unscented product.

Quality brands to check out…

Unscented: Almay Sensitive Skin *designed for women but works great for men as well

Scented: Certain Dri Everyday Strength Clinical

“Natural” vs Aluminum deodorant

Products like Native and Schmidt’s advertise themselves as aluminum-free natural deodorants but are basically just perfume sticks to mask body odor temporarily, not prevent sweat. They can also cause underarm irritation due to the robust fragrances used in them.

Are sprays ok?

Sprays are convenient but can have a tougher time penetrating the glands. They’re typically best suited for individuals that don’t sweat as much. If you’re looking for the best possible protection drive stick.

When to apply them?

According to board certified dermatologist, Dr. Andrea Suarez, “Put antiperspirants on at night time when your core body temperature goes down to help you go to sleep and the output of sweat is lower. Because of those changes it's easier for the aluminum to be targeted into the sweat gland.”

Dr. Suarez continues, “The following morning, if you're someone who gets easily irritated by antiperspirants you can actually wipe it off the surface of the skin because at that point the antiperspirant should already be down in the sweat gland. Whatever's on the surface of the skin is not doing you any favors, it may be masking odor with perfume but it's not actually working to control odor.”

Putting on antiperspirant during the day isn’t as effective because it rubs off and doesn’t have time to penetrate the sweat glands. Plus, higher sweat output during the day pushes it out faster.

But won’t it wash off if I take a shower in the morning?

No, if you apply antiperspirant at night, it has time to form the plugs in your sweat glands while you sleep. These plugs won't wash away with a morning shower, so the antiperspirant will still be effective the next day.

While we’re here…

If you have an issue with sweaty, stinky feet the same principles for the armpits can be applied. Check out Sweat Block which is an antiperspirant lotion designed for the feet and hands. Use the same method as with your pits of nighttime application for maximum effectiveness.

Are there any health risks associated with these products?

Aluminum - does it cause cancer?

There have been many proclamations made by influencers on social media that the aluminum in antiperspirants causes breast cancer. However, a 2014 meta-analysis concluded that there is no scientific evidence to link the use of antiperspirants or deodorants to breast cancer.

Fragrances/Parfums - do they cause skin irritation?

Yes, fragrances in all personal care products can cause skin irritation, especially for guys with sensitive skin or allergies. It's often recommended by dermatologists to choose fragrance-free products if you're prone to irritation.

Propylene Glycol - is it a hormone disruptor or skin irritant?

Propylene glycol isn't classified as a hormone disruptor but can be a skin irritant for some people, especially with prolonged use or in higher concentrations. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it's a good idea to patch-test products containing it.

Talc - does it contain asbestos? Is it dangerous?

According to Dr. Suarez, “Talc and asbestos do NOT go hand in hand. If they did, you would expect to see tons of mesothelioma (cancer caused by asbestos) in makeup artists & others with prolonged exposure. Baby powder doesn't have talc anymore because the EWG scared consumers into not buying it, by misrepresenting the situation.”

Most health warnings when it comes to talc are concerning excessive inhalation because it can be a problem when large amounts get into your lungs. Overall, It's a good idea to choose talc products labeled as asbestos-free and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

What are some other options?

Botox

Your dermatologist can use this FDA approved procedure for excessive sweating by injecting a very small amount of Botox into your underarms. The Botox temporarily blocks a chemical in the body that stimulates sweat production. The effects typically lasts anywhere from four to six months.

Pharma

There are also prescription drugs available for excessive sweating that limit sweat production in the body but these are not ideal for athletes for obvious reasons. They can also cause dry eyes and dry mouth.

Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Wash

This helps cut down on the bacteria that would normally breakdown the sweat and cause odor. Lather it on your underarms while you’re in the shower and leave it on for a couple minutes to work its magic before washing it off. Take note, Benzy Perox can be drying. There are 4% and 10% levels so you may have to switch it up depending on how dry your pits get. I use PanOxyl 4% to help fend off the pit bacteria.

Side Note…

I’ve tossed many a t-shirt and polo in the bin due to pit stains. After a few trials of different methods, I recently discovered a product that will get rid of most of them. Try OxyClean Gel. It restored 5 of the 6 polo shirts I tried it on. One was like 8 years old and may have been too far gone to save. Give it a shot, saved me hundreds of dollars in new polos. Side-side note: apply a generous amount on the stains, throw the shirt in the laundry basket to sit for a few days, then wash and dry as normal.

There is some nuance and personal preference when it comes to impeding BO. Everyone has their tastes, even that guy that insists on wearing half a bottle of Brut Cologne to my gym in the morning. Try a few of the tips and recos out and see what works best for you.

I’m here to support you on your journey to a healthier, fitter life. As always, I appreciate your feedback and suggestions. Let me know what topics you’d like me to cover in future issues by replying to this email.

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Be well,

Dave

Please note: This newsletter is designed for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for advice tailored to your health and fitness needs.