What are the benefits of using alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant?

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute or replace advice from a medical professional.

You may not realise it, but alcohol is a common ingredient found in antiperspirants and deodorants. However, alcohol, which may be listed as ethanol or alcohol denat, is a known skin irritant, which may not be the best choice for you if you have sensitive skin. Even if you don’t suffer from sensitivity, alcohol can be irritating if you’ve recently shaved or have dry skin. Read on to find out more about alcohol in deodorant and why an alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant could be a good alternative.

Understanding alcohol in skincare products

Alcohol is an ingredient often found in deodorants, antiperspirants and other skincare products, like toner, sunscreen and products for oily or acne-prone skin. Alcohol is often used as an ingredient as it helps formulas to dry quickly on your skin and also has antibacterial properties. However, even though it’s commonly used in skin and body products, alcohol can be harsh, disrupting your skin barrier or causing skin irritation in delicate areas, like your underarms.

Alcohol-free deodorant and sensitive skin

If you’ve ever experienced dryness, irritated armpits or redness after applying deodorant, you may benefit from an alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant. You should also try to avoid other ingredients that may cause skin irritation, like fragrance, dyes and baking soda. Instead, opt for hypoallergenic formulas that are recommended by dermatologists or products that contain soothing ingredients like aloe or glycerin. If your antiperspirant is causing skin problems, like itching, redness, discolouration, flaking or a change in skin texture, stop using the product immediately and allow your skin to heal.

Benefits of alcohol-free deodorant

Alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant could make a difference to your personal hygiene routine, for both men and women. Here are some of the benefits of making the switch:

Gentle on skin

After shaving, your underarms may feel extra sensitive, and the sting of putting deodorant on freshly shaved skin is all too familiar. It’s alcohol that causes that stinging sensation, and formulas without it are less likely to irritate or cause dryness – meaning less redness, itching and discomfort.

Protects from body odour

The key benefit that most of us want from deodorant is protection from body odour. Luckily, an alcohol-free deodorant offers the same level of odour protection, without relying on harsh ingredients, and some formulas can even keep you smelling fresh for up to 72-hours.

Supports skin hydration

Using alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant will help your skin to hold onto moisture and prevent it from drying out. Moisturised skin is less prone to dryness and discomfort, and feels more comfortable and healthy.

Less risk of skin discolouration

Skin discolouration on your underarms is a common issue, but often people don’t realise it’s caused by their choice of deodorant or antiperspirant. Alcohol in deodorant, particularly ethanol or alcohol denat, can contribute to discolouration by stripping your skin of natural oils, leading to chronic dryness, inflammation and irritation. This irritation triggers an inflammatory response in your body, which causes hyperpigmentation to develop.

Alcohol-free deodorant for your whole body

Whole body deodorant is versatile and designed to be used on any area where you experience sweating. It eliminates body odour and can keep you feeling and smelling fresh. Sanex Whole Body Deodorant uses a hypoallergenic and gentle formula that doesn’t irritate your skin – it’s also free from alcohol and aluminium. Our formula is clinically-proven to deliver 72-hour odour protection for your whole body, not just your underarms. Available in formulas made for men, women and sensitive skin, you can choose between spray or cream deodorants, for easy application wherever and whenever you need it.

FAQs

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant and sensitive skin:

Is alcohol-free deodorant effective at preventing sweat and odour?

Yes. Alcohol in antiperspirant helps it to dry quicker; however, alcohol-free antiperspirant deodorant will contain alternative ingredients like antibacterial agents and zinc to provide similar results. An alcohol-free antiperspirant will still contain aluminium compounds to help to block sweating.

Is alcohol-free antiperspirant better for sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to underarm rashes, choosing an alcohol-free antiperspirant may be a better choice, as alcohol is a known skin irritant. Formulas that are approved by dermatologists, hypoallergenic and gentle on skin are a better choice for sensitivity.

Can alcohol-free deodorant for men provide sufficient protection?

Yes! Alcohol-free deodorant for men is just as good at controlling body odour and keeping you fresh, as well as being more gentle on skin.