Antiperspirants & Deodorants: Skin Care Lecture

Body Odor and Its Causes

• Body odor primarily arises from the interaction between sweat and bacteria on the skin.
• Apocrine sweat, produced in certain areas like armpits, is rich in organic materials, making it an ideal substrate for bacterial growth.

Deodorants and Antiperspirants

• Deodorants work by neutralizing odor and inhibiting bacterial growth, typically through the use of antimicrobial agents.
• Antiperspirants primarily reduce sweat production by blocking sweat glands, thus minimizing moisture for bacteria to thrive.

Inhibitory Agents in Deodorants

• Common agents used in deodorants to inhibit bacterial growth include triclosan, zinc salts, and alcohol.

Sweat Composition and Bacterial Growth

• Apocrine sweat contains organic compounds that serve as a food source for bacteria, leading to body odor.
• The ideal substrate for bacterial growth associated with body odor is organic-rich sweat.

Aerosol Products and Their Components

• Propellants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or compressed gases are commonly used in aerosol sprays.
• Aerosols can form through gas-to-particle conversion, allowing for the dispersion of particles in the air.

Fragrance and Alcohol in Deodorants

• Fragrance in deodorants serves to mask body odor and provide a pleasant scent.
• Alcohol acts as a solvent and antimicrobial agent in aerosol products, helping to dry quickly and sanitizing the area.

Gelling Agents and Bulking Ingredients

• Gelling agents, such as carbomers, are used in deodorant sticks for texture and stability.
• Bulk waxy or fatty materials in deodorant sticks help to solidify the product and provide a smooth application.

Function of Thickening Agents and Powders

• Thickening agents are added to viscous liquid deodorants to improve consistency and prevent separation.
• Talc, starches, or other powders are incorporated into deodorant sticks to absorb moisture and enhance the product’s skin feel.