Deodorants may not be the sexy thing that you want to put in your suitcase, but they are designed to help prevent body odour and keep you smelling like a field of lilacs.
While it won’t stop you from sweating, a small bottle of deodorant in your hand luggage can eliminate the naturally occurring bacteria on your skin and help get rid of unpleasant body odours.
I Carry One in My Bag or Jacket Pocket
I always take one with me. I find that most deodorants only last for a couple of hours in hot weather, so I always have to carry one in my jacket pocket or bag.
The last thing you want, and I feel queazy writing about this, is having that oniony smell, otherwise known as BO. Therefore, I have to buy one before I go on holiday that is appropriate.
Natural Ingredients Make Up For a Humid Climate
Like anything else, you have to do some research to find the right deodorant for the particular holiday you are going on. For hot and humid climates, natural deodorants are good. These aluminium-free options neutralize odour with ingredients like baking soda, corn starch, and essential oils. They may not be as effective for heavy sweating, but are gentle on skin and often come in travel-friendly sizes. Popular brands include Schmidt’s Naturals, Native, and Tom’s of Maine.
Crystal Deodorants Are Made of Mineral Salts Like Alum
Crystal deodorants are made of mineral salts like alum. These deodorants work by inhibiting the growth of odour-causing bacteria.
They’re lightweight, long-lasting, and hypoallergenic, but may not be suitable for everyone. Popular brands include Crystal Essence and Thai Crystal Deodorant.
Antiperspirants contain aluminium salts that block sweat glands, providing stronger protection against sweat and odour. However, they can be harsh on skin and may not be suitable for sensitive skin.
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Choose aluminium-free antiperspirants like Schmidts’ Aluminium-Free Sensitive Skin Deodorant or Dove Aluminium-Free Deodorant.
When Cold Try a Stick
For cold and dry climates try a stick deodorant. These offer good sweat and odour protection and come in various scents and strengths.
Choose moisturizing formulas to prevent dry skin, especially in cold weather. Popular brands include Dove, Degree, and Nivea.
Roll-on deodorants are similar to sticks but offer a more precise application and may be gentler on sensitive skin.
Look for formulas with moisturizing ingredients. Popular brands include Mitchum, Certain Dri, and Secret.
Extra Tips on What You Need to Know When Buying
The type of deodorant you choose will also determine on other factors like the level of your physical activity. The more activity there is the stronger the deodorant or antiperspirant is needed.
The weather can change so it could be useful to bring deodorants that suit hot and cold weather.
Make sure your deodorant complies with travel-size restrictions, and you can take it with you out onboard an aeroplane. All liquids, aerosols and gel items must be in containers of 100 millilitres or 100 grams or less. Containers must fit into one transparent and re-sealable plastic bag, like a snap-lock bag
It is good to experiment with different types and brands to find what works best for you.
Remember, everyone’s body chemistry is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.
Are Deodorants Harmful? See What’s On The Label
Some people don’t wear deodorants as they consider them harmful. Studies from the early 2000s concluded that aluminium in antiperspirants might increase the risk of breast cancer, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and create other problems like hormone disruption, allergic reactions, and prevent carcinogens from exiting the body. From my own experience, I get a burning sensation when I use deodorants with aluminium.
Deodorant Alternatives Are an Option
For those that are afraid of using deodorants, there are other options. These include things such as witch hazel, baking soda or corn starch, lemon juice, rubbing alcohol, apple cider vinegar and coconut oil.
Whatever you feel comfortable is the deodorant that you should use. I go for the natural one as deodorants with metals irritate my skin. I use dr.organic Hemp Oil deodorant, which is aluminium free, but that’s just me.