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The Difference Between Deodorant and Antiperspirants

posted by Annie B. Bond Mar 26, 1999 7:48 am
The Difference Between Deodorant and Antiperspirants
33 comments

By Annie B. Bond

Why choose a natural deodorant over an antiperspirant?

Most people think that antiperspirants and deodorants are the same thing, but they aren’t. Antiperspirants work by clogging, closing, or blocking the pores with powerful astringents such as aluminum salts so that they can’t release sweat. (Note that aluminum can accumulate in the brain.) Deodorants work by neutralizing the smell of the sweat and by antiseptic action against bacteria. Deodorants are preferable because they don’t interfere with sweating, a natural cooling process.

Baking soda works wonders because it neutralizes the odor of sweat. Just sprinkle a light covering of baking soda onto a damp washcloth. Pat on. Don’t rinse.

This tip—just using baking soda—has saved me on many occasion, especially when traveling.

Basic Deodorant Powder
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup cornstarch
A few drops essential oils such as lavender or cinnamon

Place the ingredients in a glass jar. Shake to blend. Sprinkle a light covering of the powder on a damp washcloth. Pat on. Don’t rinse.

Basic Liquid Deodorant
1/4 cup each witch hazel extract, aloe vera gel, and mineral water
1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
A few drops antibacterial essential oils such as lavender (optional)

Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to blend.

Makes 3/4 cup

Shelf life: Indefinite.

More on Healthy Beauty Basics (130 articles available)
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33 comments

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33 comments

add your comment »
33 comments add your comment
Angie C.

Arm & Hammer Backing Soda does not have aluminum in it just thought you would like to know.It's 100 % Pure Sodium Bicarbonate

Steve A.

For those wishing to purchase Lavilin in New Zealand you can do this through www.lavilin.co.nz.

Thanks
Lavilin NZ

Sean V.
  • Sean V. says
  • Aug 21, 2009 4:09 PM

I've tried many different deodorants and I can tell you, nothing works like Sodium Bicarbonate, I can actually use it without worrying about stinking in any enviroment, no other type of deodorant has passed that test for me.

It's a shame no commercial products have fully embraced it, the only one I know of is by a company called Lush, here in the UK but that's pretty expensive.

Bari M.
  • Bari M. says
  • Jul 24, 2009 10:13 PM

You can also find very effective organic deodorants derived from 100% Natural ingredients at lovlis.com , don't block exit of toxins and perspiration and yet provide perfect protection from the odor

Donna M.

Just remember to choose an aluminum free baking soda..I use Red's :) Does arm and hammer provide one? It'd be awesome if they did...I use their baking soda for other things around the house.

William A.

@ Ali L. Nope, none.

Ali L.
  • Ali L. says
  • Apr 21, 2009 6:27 PM

Does the basic deodorant powder show any residue after a few hours of using it?

Bronwyn B.

What could I add to the baking soda and cornstarch to make a cream deodorant?

debra k.

injoyed this information am going to try the receips for both deodorants, I have a pacer and was told not to use deodorants, i am sure cause of the chemicals such as the salts. When i do use a deodorant, my pores block and oh the infections i get is horrible pain. Thanks alot for the information.

Lesleyanne Lindsay-nanan

where do you buy Real purity or Lavilin if you do not live in the USA? Do the retail outlets ship?

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Disclaimer: Care2.com does not warrant and shall have no liability for information provided in this newsletter or on Care2.com. Each individual person, fabric, or material may react differently to a particular suggested use. It is recommended that before you begin to use any formula, you read the directions carefully and test it first. Should you have any health care-related questions or concerns, please call or see your physician or other health care provider.

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