Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant: Dermatologists Breakdown the Difference

If you were today years old when you found out that there is in fact a difference between deodorant and antiperspirant, you're not alone. A common misconception is that deodorant is the more common term people used in their everyday language, while antiperspirant is reserved for more formal or clinical conversation. But it turns out, they each serve their own unique purpose, although they do share some overlap. To make sense of it all, Byrdie reached out to board-certified dermatologists Hooman Khorasani, MD, FAAD, and Teresa Song, MD, FAAD to get the scoop on all things deodorant and antiperspirant, and how to determine which is best for you.

What Is Deodorant?

"Deodorant is a personal hygiene product designed to reduce or mask body odor caused by sweating and bacterial overgrowth," says Dr. Khorasani. "Deodorants often contain antimicrobial agents to kill odor-causing bacteria and fragrances that mask any residual odor." He explains that apocrine glands and eccrine glands are our bodies' two types of sweat glands, with the former being the primary source of odor production. Apocrine secretions are "metabolized by skin bacteria, producing metabolites that often have a pungent smell." This is the odor that deodorant with antibacterial properties works to eliminate.

Pros and Cons

Conveniently, deodorants come in a variety of forms, like sprays, sticks, and gels to fit the user's preference. They also generally work, ridding body odor as intended. On the flip side, there are some drawbacks. Dr. Khorasani notes that it's not uncommon for some individuals to experience sensitive or allergic reactions, like contact dermatitis, due to alcohol and synthetic fragrances used in a lot of formulas.

"There are also health concerns, as some deodorants contain potentially harmful ingredients like parabens and triclosan, though research on their effects remains inconclusive." And there's a potential environmental threat, as synthetic ingredients can cause pollution. "For instance, aerosol sprays are known to contribute to air pollution, and the plastic packaging used for deodorants adds to the growing problem of plastic waste."

What Is Antiperspirant?

An alternative personal hygiene product, Dr. Song says, "Antiperspirants work actively to reduce sweating on the skin. They work primarily by diffusing into the sweat ducts to serve as temporary plugs in order to block sweating." Common ingredients that allow antiperspirants to operate this way are aluminum salts such as aluminum chloride, aluminum chloralhydrate, or aluminum zirconium, according to Dr. Khorasani.

Pros and Cons

A pro of antiperspirant is that "it helps to temporarily reduce sweating in affected areas, which can lead to decrease in bacteria growth to help control body odor," Dr. Song tells Byrdie. "It is especially helpful for patients who have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), as it can block sweating compared to traditional deodorants." Some cons are that aluminum chloride typically has a white base, which can stain clothing; and antiperspirant may also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions like deodorant.

Additionally, Dr. Song notes that there is "controversy with aluminum chloride being linked to breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease," but says that there is limited research to support this. American Cancer Society reveals "most studies have not found a link between antiperspirant use and the development of breast cancer," while research by National Library of Medicine concluded that elevated aluminum content has been found in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease but "It remains unclear whether this is a cause or an effect of the disease."

Similarities and Differences

The major difference is that deodorants mask odor but do not address sweat production. Meanwhile, antiperspirants use aluminum to minimize sweat by blocking the sweat glands which can lead to odor (thus addressing moisture and odor). Dr. Khorasani and Dr. Song reiterate that both products control body odor, are applied in similar areas, and come in various formulations, not limited to sticks, sprays, and gels.

Dr. Song concurs, adding that because antiperspirants contain aluminum, they are over-the-counter drug (while deodorants do not qualify as OTC drugs and thus are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration). Deodorants generally contain baking soda and magnesium to neutralize bacteria-causing odor. Another ingredient that is found in some formulas is tapioca starch, which keeps the area dry. She suggests deodorants with simple ingredients instead of a multitude of fragrances and plant oils.

How To Know Which Is Best For You

It really boils down to your concern. If the primary issue is eliminating odor, deodorant might be worth exploring. If you're more concerned with excessive sweating, which can also lead to odor, antiperspirant might be the best option. Whichever you choose, both experts agree that you opt for a fragrance-free, minimalist formula to avoid irritation.

If you're leaning towards an antiperspirant, Dr. Song says, "One should look for aluminum-based compounds that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free to minimize the risk of irritations." She advises looking for soothing ingredients, like aloe vera, and steering clear of potential irritants like fragrance. And if you choose an antiperspirant, talk to your doctor first—especially if you have a family history or specific concern about a health condition.

The Final Takeaway

Although deodorant and antiperspirant share some common ground, it's important to know that they serve two different functions. If you are ever in doubt, each of their primary functions is in the name. Deodorants address odor, and antiperspirants address perspiration or sweat. When determining which product is right for you, it all comes down to which of these matters is your primary concern. If you're still unsure, or if you have sensitive skin, seek a board-certified dermatologist to help you make the best decision for your body. And if you're able, opt for formulas free of ingredients that can potentially cause harm to your health and the environment.