Antiperspirant has become part of a permanent set of cosmetics for skin care. However, often its purpose is replaced by the function of a deodorant. But there are significant differences between them, based on the mechanism of action on the skin and the process of sweating.
The deodorant is designed to eliminate and replace the unpleasant odor caused by bacteria. Its use is not regulated. Antiperspirant created for other purposes. Its function is to block and narrow the channels of sweating. It usually consists of aluminum or zinc compounds, which can clog the skin and stop sweating.
Considering that human skin has the most important function of excretion, it is worth remembering that constant blocking of perspiration channels can adversely affect health. Therefore, antiperspirant is recommended for use only several times a week. One can limit oneself only to those situations when a serious event or public performance is ahead. Regular use is necessary for people with hyperhidrosis - excessive sweating.
Apply antiperspirant only in the armpits to dry and clean skin. It is first necessary to wash off the previous layer.
During heavy physical and sports activities, profuse sweating occurs. This is a good process that the body needs. The use of antiperspirants at this time is contraindicated, since swelling or a violation of the thermal balance of the body may occur.
When exposed to sunlight on the skin areas coated with antiperspirant, age spots may appear, therefore, its use on the beach is not recommended.
On the market of cosmetics, antiperspirants are presented in the form of a cream, spray, gel, liquid, crystal, talc. They are made on a water or alcohol basis. Both odorless antiperspirant and cosmetic additives are available. Of course, differences in the composition of cosmetics allow them to produce different effects on the skin. Selection of antiperspirant should be individual.
Alcohol antiperspirants dry and irritate the skin with regular use much more. The composition of antiperspirants may include antibacterial additives - triclosan, chlorhexidine. Despite the fact that they enhance the action of antiperspirant, the healthy microflora of the axillary areas is violated. The composition of antiperspirants includes preservatives. The higher the shelf life, the correspondingly more preservatives.
Antiperspirants with natural substances (for example, oak bark, tea tree oil), which also soothe the skin and inhibit the process of perspiration, are currently being produced. There are medications: drops, ball vials, aerosols. They are recommended only in cases of very strong sweating. Gels are recommended by experts as the best type of antiperspirant. They combine their direct purpose with a cosmetic effect (do not leave marks on clothes).
There are just over a dozen popular brands of antiperspirants on the Russian market. Some studies and consumer surveys have shown that most often women use antiperspirants REXONA, SECRET, ORIFLAME, LADY SPEED STICK. These cosmetics are more suitable for Russians in relation to the “price” criterion. However, if we focus on the criteria of “quality”, then VICHY, PERFORMANCE ADIDAS, FLORENA, LADY SPEED STICK come first in the reviews.
What is attractive VICHY antiperspirant (Vichy) from the French manufacturer? Most consumer reviews are more enthusiastic than critical. They note the economy of this cosmetic product, quality and safety.