Most of us have been using deodorant and antiperspirant for so long that we just put it on in the morning and forget about it. It’s the kind of morning routine we can do without thinking, and probably without even turning on the lights. But there’s more to what goes under our arms than we think. And we’re probably not getting as much out of our daily deodorizing as we could. Here are a few things most of us aren’t getting right — and a few more uses for that pit-stick than just swiping on before you head out the door!
Here are 15 things you need to stop doing with your Deodorant immediately :
#1. Not Applying Deodorant After A Shower
Deodorant works best when applied to clean skin. Wash away all your obtrusive dirt and grime in the shower, then immediately apply your deodorant to get it right to the source of your sweat. It does your body no good to layer antiperspirant on top of a pre-existing layer of sweat.
#2. Never Reapplying
Deodorant never lasts as long as you need it to. And just like after showering, before you re-apply it you should clean the area you’re applying it to so you’re not just rubbing it into a layer of sweat.
#3. Not Applying Deodorant At Night
Most people work deodorant into their morning routine and never again, but you’d be better off using it at night. Applying deodorant before bedtime ensures you’ll get the optimal effect. It’ll go to work, clogging your sweat pores in advance while you’re dreaming.
#4. Getting The Wrong Kind
No two bodies are the same. We all have our own needs, which is why most brands offer a variety of different deodorants. If you’re a heavy sweater, you might need a clinical strength deodorant. If you have sensitive skin, you’ll probably benefit most from a hypoallergenic variant.
#5. Mismatching Scents
Most grooming and hygiene products come in multiple floral scents to keep you smelling fresh and clean. It’s important to try to match your deodorant with all your other beauty products, such as shampoo and perfume, so the scents don’t clash. Peach and mint do not go well together!
#6. Substituting Deodorant For A Shower
Antiperspirant is a powerful tool, but it shouldn’t be the only thing you use to get clean. No brand or variety of antiperspirant can effectively replace the benefits of showering. So scrub up – the people around you will appreciate it.
#7. Using Too Much
Ever heard of the phrase, “Too much of a good thing”? Well, too much deodorant could do more harm than good. Applying excessive amounts can lead to itchy, irritated skin due to a buildup of chemicals.
#8. Applying It To The Wrong Thing
Again, deodorant is supposed to go onto dry, clean skin. It needs direct contact with your pores to work properly. Slapping it on your clothes will do nothing but ruin them.
Of course, your underarms are not the only part of your body that could benefit from a little deodorant. Check out these seven alternative spots that could use some attention.
#9. Legs
Deodorant leaves your skin fresh and smooth. It can also work as a handy lubricant that is perfect for muscling on a pair of skinny jeans. Slide some on your legs to help slip those tight-fitting trousers on.
#10. Forehead
Long-distance runners know that nothing is as irritating as sweat in your eyes. Rolling on a little antiperspirant can direct the sweat harmlessly away from your face — just remember to use an invisible antiperspirant so you don’t cover your forehead in white flakes.
#11. Knees
Our underarms get sweaty from being trapped between our torso and arms. The back of your knees could use some reprieve, too. If you find your knees getting sweaty from sitting around, apply some deodorant to keep them from perspiring.
#12. Under Your boobs
Ladies, we all know how annoying this is. Prevent obnoxious sweat by spraying or rolling some antiperspirant under your before getting dressed.
#13. Heels
The back of our heels are quite prone to blisters, and breaking in a new pair of shoes can be a painful ordeal for our feet. Before lacing up your new kicks, roll a little deodorant on your heels. This will help reduce friction and prevent irritation while you work out the kinks in your new sneakers.
#14. Feet
Our feet can get sweaty and stinky too. Before stuffing them in a pair of socks, roll some deodorant onto the bottom of your feet to keep the smell at bay. You’ll feel better and your shoes will smell better.
#15. Thighs
If you’re a runner, you probably have to deal with chafing thighs. The friction caused between our thighs leads to sweating and skin irritation, which makes it harder to grind out that last mile. Slide some deodorant between your thighs before a run to reduce chafing.
15 Things You Need To Stop Doing With Your Deodorant Immediately
Sign up here with your email