The pros weigh in.
Lately, that could include usingglycolic acidas adeodorantalternative, since the trend has been steadily going viral on TikTok.
I wish that everybody truly understood the difference between antiperspirant and deodorant, says board-certified dermatologist Dr.Heather Woolery-Lloyd.
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These terms are often used interchangeably but they really are quite different.
Understanding these differences can really help people decide whats the best product for their needs.
So how do the two differ?
In other words, antiperspirant helps with sweat and odor, while deodorant only addresses odor.
That puts glycolic acid in the same category as deodorant, though it works differently to fight funk.
Body odor is created with the interaction of sweat and normal skin bacteria, says board-certified dermatologistDr.
Less bacteria means less odor.
Remember that the lower the concentration of glycolic acid, the lower the risk of irritation.
I would not consider this safe because the underarm skin is extremely sensitive, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says.
In this case, the risks do not outweigh the benefits.
This is especially true because there are so many safer affordable alternatives that can achieve the same goal.
Futher concurs: I must admit I am not a fan of this trend, she says.
My opinion is that glycolic acid is not designed for underarmsit is designed to be used in facial products.
Skin in the region also has a high temperature and is very warm, along with hair follicles.
It is super complicated so for that reason I do not recommend DIY solutions for underarms.
A low percentageglycolic acid toneris potentially the best way to try this trend.
A thin layer can be applied to dry underarms once daily.
Its important to allow the underarms to dry completely before lowering them.
Antiperspirants are becoming more advanced.
Glycolic acid isnt the only underarm ingredient thats trending.
Salicylic acid is an ingredient that is commonly used as a treatment for ingrown hairs, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says.
They work by exfoliating the skin to help release trapped ingrown hairs.
Those who have hyperpigmentation in the underarm can look for a formula with niacinamide, which brightens skin.
It was designed for sensitive underarms as well as those that suffer from post inflammatory pigmentation.
