WHAT IS ANTIPERSPIRANT & HOW DOES IT WORK? ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Sweat raises questions—and we’ve got answers. From “What is antiperspirant?" to whether it actually works, what it’s made of, and what happens when you stop using it, we’re tackling your most common antiperspirant curiosities. Because the more you know, the more confidently you can move.

WHAT DOES ANTIPERSPIRANT DO?

Antiperspirant is your secret weapon against sweat. Unlike deodorant, which only tackles odor, antiperspirant actually helps reduce the amount of sweat your body produces. Less sweat = less chance for odor to develop.

If you’re constantly battling sweat stains or feeling less than fresh by midday, an antiperspirant could be your new best friend.

Less sweat = less chance for odor to develop.

HOW DOES ANTIPERSPIRANT WORK?

It’s all about science. When you swipe on antiperspirant, aluminum-based compounds temporarily block your sweat glands. It works by dissolving using your skin’s moisture and forming a gel-like plug over your sweat glands. This temporarily reduces the amount of sweat that reaches the surface of your skin. The result? Drier underarms and a whole lot more confidence.

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WHAT IS ANTIPERSPIRANT DEODORANT?

Antiperspirant deodorant is the ultimate two-in-one—it controls sweat and busts odor. It’s like having both a bodyguard and a personal scent stylist for your underarms.

Some of the best Degree antiperspirants include:

Degree Advanced Protection – 72-hour sweat and odor defense for non-stop freshness.

Degree Clinical Protection – Prescription-strength wetness control for those who need extra protection.

Degree UltraClear Black+White – Keeps you dry while preventing white marks and yellow stains.

DOES ANTIPERSPIRANT EXPIRE?

Yep, antiperspirant does expire! Most antiperspirants last about two to three years. After that, the active ingredients might not be as effective. So, if you’ve been holding onto an old stick for way too long, it’s time to upgrade.

WHY DOES ANTIPERSPIRANT MAKE YOU SWEAT MORE?

If it feels like you're sweating more after using antiperspirant, your body might just be adjusting. Sometimes, sweat glands take a little time to get used to the formula. If you’re still dealing with excessive sweat, you might need a stronger formula, like Degree Clinical Protection.

DOES ANTIPERSPIRANT STAIN CLOTHES?

Unfortunately, the aluminum in antiperspirant can mix with sweat and cause yellow stains, especially on white shirts. To prevent this, let your antiperspirant dry before getting dressed or try Degree UltraClear Black+White, which helps reduce staining.

WHAT’S BETTER: DEODORANT OR ANTIPERSPIRANT?

It depends on what you need. If odor is your only concern, deodorant will do the trick. But if you want to reduce sweat and odor, antiperspirant is the way to go. Or, get the best of both worlds with an antiperspirant deodorant.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU STOP USING ANTIPERSPIRANT?

When you stop using antiperspirant, it can feel like you’re sweating more—but you're not. Without aluminum blocking your sweat glands, you're just noticing what’s always been there. It might take time to adjust, but many people find their body settles into a new rhythm.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU USE TOO MUCH ANTIPERSPIRANT?

When you apply antiperspirant, more isn't better. Piling it on won’t make it work harder—but it can clog pores and irritate your skin. A thin, even layer on clean, dry skin is all you need to stay dry and avoid the itch.

WHAT IF ANTIPERSPIRANT DOESN’T WORK?

If your antiperspirant isn’t cutting it, try a stronger formula or apply it at night when your sweat glands are less active. Still feeling drenched? Time to level up. Clinical-strength options like Degree Clinical Strength Protection pack a more potent punch. It uses advanced odor-fighting and sweat-blocking technology to keep you fresh even in high-pressure situations.

IS IT OK TO USE ANTIPERSPIRANT DAILY?

Yes—using antiperspirant every day is totally safe for most people. It works best when applied daily to help block sweat and control odor, keeping you dry and fresh through workouts, meetings, and everything in between.¹

WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF ANTIPERSPIRANT?

There’s no solid evidence that antiperspirant causes any long-term harm. Some people worry about aluminum, but research hasn’t found any major risks.¹ If you’re concerned, there are aluminum-free options available. Degree Whole Body Deodorant is a great alternative, offering freshness from head to toe without aluminum.

WHAT IS THE BEST ANTIPERSPIRANT FOR SENSITIVE SKIN?

If you have sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free or hypoallergenic formulas. Sometimes, irritation comes from added perfumes rather than the active ingredients themselves. You can also apply a moisturizer before using antiperspirant to create a barrier and reduce irritation.

Bottom line? Whether you’re looking to stay dry, fight odor, or both, there’s an antiperspirant out there for you. With the right formula, you can move through your day with total confidence—sweat and odor won’t stand a chance!