Deodorant is necessary once we reach puberty. It’s a product in every medicine cabinet or on every dresser, and one used most days before we leave the house. A trusty antiperspirant deodorant stick keeps us dry, free of body odor, and prevents embarrassing sweat stains on our favorite t-shirts, sweaters, and blouses. And while we hope it lasts all day, there are certain tips and tricks to give deodorant staying power:
1. Opt for breathable clothing
Unfortunately most of us find this out after wearing a thick or non breathable polyester top or wool sweating. Suddenly pit stains ruin our entire day! Wearing clothing made of heavy, non-breathable textures will only cause more sweating and body odor. Yet opting for fabrics such as linen, cotton, or bamboo means your underarms will breathe and your deodorant will stay dry all day. It’s also wise, if you sweat excessively or suffer from hyperhidrosis, to wear loose tops that will allow air to circulate and keep your underarms dry.
2. Keep underarms free of hair
While many of us hate shaving, underarms that are free of hair and stubble are the best canvas for your deodorant or antiperspirant. Thick, coarse underarm hairs will trap sweat, bacteria and moisture and cause even worse body odor. However, shaving your armpits and letting them dry out of the bath or shower, creates the perfect clean, dry canvas for deodorant applications that stick.
3. Use baby powder or talcum powder to stay dry all day
Although it’s a trick your mom or grandma probably used to use, a sprinkle of baby powder or talc under your pits can both create a dry surface for application and a barrier on the outside to seal dryness in. You can find plenty of safe powder options that absorb sweat and moisture while helping control odor.
4. Only use on clean, dry skin
Moisture is the main culprit for sweaty pits that stink. So be sure when you do apply a fresh coat of deodorant or antiperspirant first thing in the morning that your armpits are clean and dry. If you’re emerging from the shower, be sure to towel dry your pits completely and let them fully dry before putting on a shirt. If you don’t you will be applying deodorant or fragrance to moist skin and it will just slide off. The same goes for applying perfume to pulse points. Dry skin retains moisture most effectively.
5. Let antiperspirant fully dry
To further the previous point, application of deodorant or antiperspirant to dry armpits is essential. However, it’s also very important, especially if you use a roll on antiperspirant or deodorant spray, to let the product dry fully before adding any clothing overtop. Otherwise it can trap wetness and sweat and make your body odor control completely worthless.