Odor Protection
When Was Deodorant Invented? How Oils, Then Paste Became a Today’s Must-have Partner
2 Min Read | Date : 07/20/2025
It’s hard to imagine a time when deodorant wasn’t a trusty parnter in our daily routines. These days, you’re likely to have a favorite scent or brand (like Degree, right?) that keeps you feeling fresh throughout the day. But when exactly did we start caring about body odor, and why was deodorant invented in the first place? Let’s dive into the history of deo, where it all began, and how we ended up with the advanced products we use today.
The origins: who invented the first deodorant?
The first commercial deodorant, called Mum, hit the market in 1888. It came in a paste form that you applied to your underarms. U.S. inventor Edna Murphey was responsible for its creation and it was considered groundbreaking for its time. The paste worked by killing the bacteria that caused odor, and its success paved the way for the modern deodorants we use today. So, if you’ve ever wondered who invented deodorant, you’ve got Edna to thank!
Ancient solutions: what did people use before deodorant?
Long before deo hit the shelves, people had their own ways of dealing with body odor. Ancient Egyptians, for instance, used a mix of scented oils and spices to mask unpleasant smells. They even applied perfumed wax cones on their heads, which would melt and release fragrance throughout the day. Talk about dedication!
The Greeks and Romans had their own methods too. They used a mix of alum and other minerals to reduce sweating and odor. Some even resorted to bathing in scented water. While these methods were somewhat effective, they were far from convenient.
The birth of modern deodorant: why was anitperspirant invented?
Here’s where it gets interesting. Deodorant only tackled odor—it didn’t deal with sweat. That’s where antiperspirants come into play.
Mum wasn’t perfect. It was messy and didn’t last long. This led to further innovations, and in 1903, the first antiperspirant, Everdry, was introduced. Unlike deodorants, which mask odor, antiperspirants work by reducing sweat. Everdry used aluminum chloride to block sweat glands temporarily, offering a more comprehensive solution to body odor.
Deodorant innovations: degree’s superior technology
Degree deodorant traces its roots back to Rexona, which was created in 1908 by Alice Sheffer in Australia. It became so popular that the brand became part of Unilever in the 1930s. By the 1960s, Rexona was introduced to the U.S. market under the name Degree. Over the years, Degree has became known for its advanced solutions and its partnerships with top athletes, solidifying its reputation for high-performance sweat protection.
Deodorant has come a long way since the days of pastes and early sprays. Today, the technology behind deodorants and antiperspirants has advanced to the point where we can choose from a variety of products based on your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for 72-hour protection, invisible application, or fresh scents, there’s something for everyone.
This is where Degree stands out. Degree’s line of deodorants and antiperspirants offers cutting-edge technology that goes beyond the basics of odor and sweat control. Degree products are designed to adapt to your body. Whether you’re running to catch a bus, hitting the gym, or heading into an important meeting, Degree keeps you protected with motion-sensing technology.
Deodorant’s evolved way past pastes and old-school sprays. Degree brings next-level tech that doesn’t just fight odor and sweat—it redefines how you stay fresh all day.
The science behind degree
Degree technology is all about superior efficacy. The products are designed to respond to your body’s needs, offering protection when you need it the most. This isn’t just about masking odor; it’s about preventing it from happening in the first place. Degree’s advanced formulas ensure you stay fresh and dry, giving you the confidence to break limits and push through self-doubts.
From ancient remedies to modern innovations, the history of deodorant is a testament to human ingenuity. We’ve come a long way from using scented oils and spices to having advanced formulas that offer nonstop protection. Degree’s superior technology ensures you stay fresh and confident, inspiring you to move more and break limits.
