Applied Your Deodorant But Still Smell? Pharmacists Point Out You Might Be Using It Wrong
Most people apply antiperspirant before leaving home, but pharmacists say it should be applied immediately after showering at night—the aluminum salts need 6-8 hours to create a protective film that blocks sweat glands.
Applied Your Deodorant But Still Smell? Pharmacists Point Out You Might Be Using It Wrong, with guidance on the correct timing to effectively reduce perspiration and body odor.
Compiled by the Thai PBS Online News Team May 4, 2025
Based on foreign media reports, during hot season many people apply antiperspirant before leaving home, believing it will reduce sweating and body odor. However, one internet user recently shared her experience of discovering after years of use that antiperspirant should be applied immediately after showering. She expressed her frustration: "Seems like I've been doing it wrong all along!"
The user posted on the Threads platform, stating that antiperspirant should be applied after bathing, not before leaving home as she had been doing. She emphasized: "If you wait to apply it when leaving home, it's basically useless."
After the post went viral, many netizens shared their opinions, including comments like "I've been using it for years and just found out," "You have to wait until it dries before putting clothes on," and "If you apply it before leaving home, it becomes a mix of pleasant and unpleasant smells."
Pharmacist Xiao Lu explained that aluminum salts in antiperspirant products require 6-8 hours to react and create a film layer that adheres to skin and blocks sweat glands, effectively reducing perspiration. He emphasized: "You shouldn't apply it before leaving home because it barely works."
How to Apply Antiperspirant Correctly to Eliminate Body Odor Throughout the Day
1. Apply the night before bedtime Pharmacists recommend applying antiperspirant in the evening before bed, and the skin must be completely dry. If the skin is still damp, it may cause irritation or rashes.
2. No need to reapply during the day There's no need to reapply during the day. You can shower normally in the morning as usual and should avoid using antiperspirant right after shaving to prevent skin inflammation.
Pharmacists also noted that most antiperspirants on the market have low concentration and last approximately 24-48 hours. With continuous use over time, sweat production noticeably decreases, and you can adjust to using it every 2 days. Some pharmacy-grade products use long-acting formulas that may remain effective for 4-7 days.
However, beginners are advised to use it daily first, then reduce frequency once they notice decreased perspiration. Currently, some products are available for once-weekly use as well.
Source: CTWANT
