Do I need to use deodorant if I don't have smelly armpits?

If my armpits don't smell, should I use deodorant to keep them clean and dry, especially the scented kind to make my body smell better? (Son Anh, 29 years old).

Reply:

Excessive sweating is the main cause of body odor. Other causes include hygiene habits, food, medications, and medical conditions.

The sweat in the armpits has more protein than sweat secreted in other places, so it is easily broken down by bacteria on the skin and creates an unpleasant odor. However, not everyone who sweats in the armpits has an odor. Regular use of deodorant in the armpits can cause the skin under the arms to darken because the ingredients in the product change the natural pH of the skin. Some deodorants contain parabens, alcohol, fragrances, and chemicals that also cause inflammation, irritation, and discoloration of the skin.

However, you can still use the roll-on to clean and sanitize the skin of your arms. It is recommended to apply it the night before so that the antiperspirant has time to penetrate the sweat ducts on your skin and protect you from sweating the next day. Do not roll on too many layers. After rolling, we should let it dry for a few seconds before you put on your shirt or before exercising and sweating.

If you don’t want to use a deodorant, you can use antibacterial soap or shower gel to clean. Warm water can kill bacteria on the skin, preventing underarm odor. Applying baby powder also reduces odor and helps keep the underarms dry.

The skin under your arms is a sensitive area. You should choose underarm care products that do not contain irritants such as fragrances and dyes.

In the summer, you should wear cool clothes such as cotton, silk to help the skin breathe and sweat easily. You should remove or shave your armpit hair to avoid excessive sweating, causing clogged pores and folliculitis. Limit the use of foods with strong odors such as garlic, curry, reduce caffeine, and stimulants.

Doctor Thai Thanh Yen , Department of Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City

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