Feedback About wiseGEEK Login
Category: 
What Is an Aerosol Deodorant?
Article Details
  • Written By: Haven Esme
  • Edited By: Bronwyn Harris
  • Copyright Protected:
    2003-2012
    Conjecture Corporation
Free Widgets for your Site/Blog
The first ATM was built in London in 1967, and it could be used only to withdraw 10 British pounds.  more...

May 29 ,  1953 :  Edmund Hillary reached the top of Mount Everest.  more...

Body odor is offensive to many people. For this reason, aerosol deodorant was invented, to prevent and treat body odor. Aerosol deodorants are not as commonly used as the stick or roll-on variety; however, many people around the world still apply aerosol deodorants to their bodies every day.

Unlike roll-on deodorant that simply needs to be smoothed over the skin, an aerosol deodorant is applied with a spraying method. To apply aerosol deodorant, the user needs to shake the can several times. The user should then remove the lid and then hold the deodorant several inches away from their underarm before spraying.

Some aerosol deodorants are also antiperspirant deodorants as well. An antiperspirant deodorant accomplishes two things. First, it eliminates odors, and secondly it prevents a person from perspiring in the first place.

Anti-perspiring aerosol deodorants behave as a liquid sealant on the skin. The spray provides a thin film that will mask body odor and wetness. The deodorant works by blocking a person's sweat glands and trapping liquids. As it traps the liquids, odors are eliminated. In addition, the deodorants often have a pleasant smell.

There are some disadvantages to aerosol deodorant. One of the most prominent disadvantages of aerosol deodorant is that it has a negative effect on the environment. Aerosols are made of tiny particles that remain suspended in the air after they have been released. This can affect weather and contribute to climate change. Aerosols have been blamed for changes in the atmosphere's energy balance as well as for affecting the global water cycle.

Another disadvantage of an aerosol deodorant is how the product is applied. It is not applied directly to the skin because it is sprayed on. This means that if the person does not properly aim the deodorant, it can end up on clothes or other parts of the body.

Another disadvantage is that there are no current aerosol deodorants in the marketplace that are made of 100% natural ingredients. Most contain potentially harmful ingredients. Individuals who use aerosol deodorant should also be careful to use deodorant that does not contain aluminum. Aerosol deodorants that contain aluminum have the potential to cause allergic reactions.

Of course, there are some advantages to using an aerosol deodorant. The deodorant is easy to apply and dries quickly. It is also extremely easy to rinse off. Another advantage of aerosol deodorants is the deodorant does not cause any buildup that could easily transfer to a person's clothing.

Related Videos

Discuss this Article

goldenmist
Post 2

@robert13 - I can't quite answer your question - although I'd be interested to know as well - but basically the concern is that releasing large amounts of aerosol into the atmosphere could cause significant ozone depletion. It has been suggested that ozone depletion can lead to increased incidences of skin cancer.

robert13
Post 1

I didn't realize aerosol could affect weather and contribute to climate change. I know that it's also used in crop spraying and pest control. Also, besides deodorant, some people use those air freshening sprays. Does anyone know how exactly aerosol contributes to climate change?

Post your comments

Post Anonymously

Login

username
password
forgot password?
or connect with facebook

Register

username
password
confirm
email