Your deodorant will work better if you apply it at this time, dermatologist says
Dermatologist reveals the best time to apply deodorant (Photo: Magnific)
Most people use deodorant at the wrong time without realizing it. The timing of application can make a big difference in how well it works throughout the day, according to Health.
When is the best time to use deodorant?
Dermatologist Ida Orengo, MD, says that most products we call deodorants are actually a combination of a deodorant, which controls odor, and an antiperspirant, which reduces sweating.
The ideal time to use a deodorant is different from the best time to apply an antiperspirant.
"A deodorant masks body odor, but it doesn’t stop sweating. Application can be at any time, but should always be applied to freshly cleaned skin; you don’t want to add a layer to sweaty skin with bacteria," the dermatologist said.
Antiperspirants usually contain aluminum compounds that temporarily block sweat glands. They work best when applied at night, when the glands are less active. Their effects can last for up to 24 hours.
A combination deodorant and antiperspirant is the best choice if you want to reduce sweating while controlling body odor.
"If you are using a high-powered antiperspirant that says it is effective for 36 hours, 48 hours, etc., I would not suggest using it daily. These products can irritate the skin," she said.
How to apply it correctly
Experts recommend the following tips to get the best results from deodorants and antiperspirants:
- Apply antiperspirant to dry skin. Using it on damp skin can dilute the product and make it less effective.
- Let the product dry completely before getting dressed to prevent stains and friction.
- Never apply deodorant to sweaty skin, as this can allow bacteria to build up and make body odor worse.
Avoid using these products immediately after shaving if your skin is irritated. It's better to wait a few hours or until the next day. Also, don't apply a thick layer. More product won't make it work better, but it can leave marks on your clothes and increase the risk of skin irritation.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.