Table of Contents
Functions of the deodorant
Deodorant is a cosmetic product that prevents the formation of bad smells on the skin, keeping the areas of the body fresh and fragrant after cleansing. Generally it is applied in areas where it is easier for bacterial proliferation to occur because they are richer in sweat and sebaceous glands or because they are not very exposed. In fact, deodorants are normally used in the area of armpits and on feet, areas where unpleasant odors are more likely to be generated.
There sweating it is an absolutely normal and natural physiological process and the main purpose of the deodorant should not be to prevent it, but to absorb sweat and carry out antibacterial action. Some deodorants can also have an antiperspirant action, thus limiting the production of sweat, and in most cases, contain perfumes to offer greater feeling of freshness o emollient and moisturizing substances for a softening and soothing action on the skin.
How to choose it
Choosing the right deodorant is very subjective and depends on your own needs and habits. For example, if you sweat profusely you will opt for a product with greater absorbency, if instead you have delicate skin it is better to opt for alcohol-free deodorants or antiperspirants, choosing instead products rich in emollient ingredients. In general, it must be considered that the greater the antiperspirant action the more the deodorant could irritate the skin.
It is important then consider the format, according to your preferences: in fact they exist on the market cream deodorants, in paste, gel or hydroalcoholic solutions spray. The hydroalcoholic and gel solutions are the most practical and hardly stain clothes so they are particularly suitable for the armpit area, while creams and pastes are excellent for the feet, which help to soften the skin in the case of feet and heels. buckets.
People who are more attentive to their health and that of the environment can then opt for a natural deodorant which is generally formulated with sodium bicarbonate to absorb sweat and odors, essential oils diluted in alcohol that give perfume and have antibacterial properties, emollient vegetable oils and butters. The antiperspirant action in natural deodorants is often ensured by presence of rock alum or potassium alum in powder form or in the form of crystals of varying sizes or from absorbent powders such as starches and clays.
DIY deodorant
The deodorant can also be prepared at home, with a few ingredients easily available in the supermarket, herbalist’s shop and pharmacy. Let’s see some versions.
Powder deodorant
The powder deodorant is certainly the simplest to prepare: it is in fact sufficient to mix together sodium bicarbonate and white clay or powdered rice starch in equal parts (10-20 grams of each) and add 10 to 15 drops of one. or more essential oils, up to a maximum of three essences different. The best essences to make a deodorant are those of sage, tea tree, lemon, mint and rosemary but, since all essential oils have antibacterial properties, you can choose your favorite essence. The deodorant powder is kept in a clean, dry glass jar away from moisture. At the time of use just distribute the product in the areas of the body with a make-up brush.
Spray deodorant
Here is how to prepare a spray liquid deodorant, more practical than powder and perfect for the summer.
Ingredients
- 40 milliliters of vodka
- 40 milliliters of distilled water
- 10 grams of glycerin
- 10 grams of rock alum powder
- 10 drops of sage essential oil
- 10 drops of mint essential oil
- 10 drops of lemon essential oil
Method
First you dissolve the alum powder in the water, then add the glycerin. Separately, the essential oils are poured into the vodka and the alcoholic solution is added to the one containing the alum. The deodorant is then poured into a spray bottle and stored at room temperature for up to three months. At the time of use, it is shaken and sprayed on the areas to be deodorized.
Gel deodorant
The gel deodorant is a more delicate version of the spray, equally practical and effective.
Ingredients
Method
Dissolve the alum powder in very little water, add it to add to the aloe gel and mix well. Combine the essences, mix gently and transfer the mixture into a container, preferably roll-on. Store at room temperature for no more than three months and use by spreading a veil in the armpit area.
Cream deodorant
The cream deodorant is prepared with shea butter, corn starch, bicarbonate and sunflower or sweet almond oil in equal parts (15 grams of each) and 30-40 drops of sage and tea tree essential oils. After heating the shea butter with the oil in a double boiler, remove it from the heat and add thestarch and the bicarbonate. Once mixed and warmed, the essential oils and pour it all into a clean and dry jar. The product should be stored away from sources of light and heat and used within three months. It is an excellent deodorant in the winter period to deodorize and moisturize the area of the armpits and feet.
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