## Deodorant or antiperspirant? First, you need to decide what product you need and how they differ. All deodorants include compounds with antimicrobial action. These suppress bacteria, whose activity creates an unpleasant odor. However, this does not stop sweating. An antiperspirant stops sweat from flowing out. In the absence of sweat on the skin, bacteria have nothing to feed on, thus eliminating both moisture and odor. The choice depends on the individual characteristics of the organism. If you sweat profusely, an antiperspirant can help reduce the problem of wet marks on your clothes and make your underarms feel dry. If you don't sweat often and are only worried about the unpleasant smell, deodorant is a great solution. ## Deodorant for men or for women? If you thought deodorants for men were more effective, think again! According to a Discovery Health report, the composition of the male and female products is the same. The only difference is in packaging and scents. ## Before or after a shower? This depends on what kind of product you are using. Antiperspirants should be applied overnight to dry, clean skin. The activity of the sweat glands decreases during sleep, and the product is better absorbed. Even a morning shower will not reduce their effectiveness. However, deodorants are best applied after a morning shower, after making sure that the skin is completely dry. ## Apply every day? Even if the product indicates that the effect lasts 48 hours or more, antiperspirants must be washed off in the shower once a day. And if you apply layer by layer for several days in a row, you can get serious pore blockage, inflammation, or even an abscess. Deodorants don't work that long, and they don't stay on the skin. ## Before or after hair removal? If you are removing armpit hair with a razor, it is best not to apply deodorant or antiperspirant immediately after doing so. Even the most delicate razor will cause micro-trauma to the skin, and deodorant can cause serious skin irritation. The same goes for sugaring or using an epilator. It's best to let your skin heal for a few hours (overnight, for example) before using deodorants again.