Antiperspirant vs. Deodorant: What’s the Difference?

Antiperspirants and deodorants are the same thing, right?

Not quite. While they both deal with sweat — particularly sweaty underarms — they work in different ways.

So, is one better than the other? And how do you choose when to use an antiperspirant vs. a deodorant?

Dermatology specialist Lauren Zamborsky, CNP, explains the key differences between antiperspirants and deodorants and if you should use one over the other.

Understanding the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant

You probably have a lot of questions about antiperspirant vs. deodorant: Which is better? What does antiperspirant mean? What is deodorant?

Zamborsky breaks down how each one works.

How antiperspirant works

An antiperspirant reduces the amount of sweat that your body makes. One of the main active ingredients in antiperspirants is aluminum salts, which block the pores on the outer layer of your skin.

“The aluminum salts in antiperspirants reduce the sweat flow in the underarms by restricting access to the upper part of the sweat gland,” explains Zamborsky. “It’s more difficult for sweat to be released. Aluminum salts also play a part in reducing odor production: Less sweat means less bacteria, which means less odor.”

A concern you may have with using an antiperspirant that contains aluminum is the risk of developing breast cancer.

“It’s thought that frequent use of antiperspirant can cause aluminum to accumulate in the sweat glands, which are close to your breast tissue. But research hasn’t proven that aluminum can cause breast cancer,” she clarifies. “And in the breast cancer tissue that has been studied, it doesn’t contain more aluminum than normal breast tissue.”

In fact, the American Cancer Society says there are no strong studies that link breast cancer risk and antiperspirant use, and that there’s very little scientific evidence to support this claim.

How deodorant works

Deodorant doesn’t block or prevent sweat from happening. Deodorant aims to block or cover up the odor of sweat thanks to ingredients like baking soda and alcohol that neutralize bacteria that cause odor and fragrances, perfumes and essential oils to mask any smell.

Key differences

One of the main distinctions between antiperspirant and deodorant is how they work, but there are some other key differences as well.

Antiperspirant vs. deodorant

But there are some similarities between the two. Both options are safe for everyday use and are available as sprays, powders, gels, lotions, solids and roll-on liquids. And both choices are available over the counter, with even a few “clinical strength” options to choose from.

Another way antiperspirant and deodorant are alike? Both can cause skin irritation.

“Skin irritation can be caused by either one of them, especially if the product contains perfumes or dyes,” says Zamborsky. “Oftentimes, we apply antiperspirants and deodorants immediately after shaving. If our skin is already irritated and then we’re putting something on it, we can get a rash or irritant contact dermatitis. It’s best to apply to clean, dry skin to avoid that from happening.”

And if you have sensitive skin, Zamborsky recommends reading ingredient lists to make sure you choose either an antiperspirant or deodorant without common skin irritants.

When to use an antiperspirant vs. a deodorant

Should you use one over the other? It’s a personal decision, says Zamborsky.

It’s worth noting that some products contain both an antiperspirant and a deodorant. But if you like to keep your deodorant and antiperspirant separate, then you may want to consider when you apply them during the day.

“With a lot of antiperspirants, it’s best to apply them at night when your sweating is at a minimum. This allows the product to stay in place for six to eight hours before being washed off in the morning,” she says. “Then, you can use a deodorant in the morning to mask any odors.”

Bottom line?

While there are some notable differences between antiperspirants and deodorants, there isn’t one that’s better than the other. It all depends on how much you sweat (some people may not sweat a lot and find that deodorant works for them) and what you’re trying to achieve with either option.

“It completely depends on your goals,” says Zamborsky. “Knowing the difference between how antiperspirants and deodorants work is key and can help manage your expectations.”