Experts Clarify Effective Deodorant Use and Safety Concerns in Israeli Summer Heat
In the intense heat of the Israeli summer, deodorant is considered essential rather than a luxury, commonly carried and used multiple times daily. Despite its routine use, many questions remain about deodorants, including their safety, the benefits of natural products, and the meaning behind claims like "up to 48 hours protection." Experts from Maccabi Healthcare and Shenkar College clarify these issues.
Dr. Mohammad Sah, a dermatologist and sexologist, explains that sweating is a natural physiological process crucial for regulating body temperature and maintaining skin moisture. The unpleasant odor associated with sweat is actually caused by bacteria on the skin breaking down sweat components, producing volatile compounds with distinctive smells. Professor Elizabeth Amir, a chemical engineering expert, emphasizes that deodorants reduce body odor by lowering bacterial populations but do not stop sweating. Antiperspirants, in contrast, contain aluminum salts that temporarily block sweat glands to reduce perspiration.
The term "natural" deodorant is not scientifically defined and does not guarantee safety or effectiveness. Many natural deodorants mainly mask odor without reducing sweat and may still contain irritants. Both natural and synthetic deodorants include multiple ingredients such as antimicrobials, preservatives, fragrances, and stabilizers, which can cause skin irritation or allergies in some users.
Concerns about deodorants causing cancer are addressed cautiously. Dr. Sah notes that prolonged use of products that excessively dry the underarm skin and block sweat ducts might warrant caution due to rare risks like sweat gland tumors. However, current medical literature does not confirm a direct link between normal deodorant use and cancer. More common side effects include skin irritation, dryness, redness, and allergic reactions.
Choosing the right deodorant depends on individual needs, whether targeting odor or excessive sweating, and sensitivity to ingredients. Application methods also affect user experience: sprays dry quickly but may irritate, roll-ons dry slower and feel wetter, and sticks often leave white marks due to their powdery components. Claims of 48-hour protection are based on controlled tests and may not reflect real-life conditions influenced by activity and skin type.
Persistent underarm odor despite hygiene and deodorant use may indicate bacterial overgrowth or sweat gland issues requiring medical evaluation. Treatments can include antibacterial soaps or short antibiotic courses. Skin changes like darkening or scaling may also signal underlying problems needing targeted care. Overall, experts recommend paying attention to product ingredients, usage patterns, and skin reactions to find the most suitable deodorant solution.
