While you may be of the 'Whatever's on offer' school of thought, sometimes a change in lifestyle, like more exercising, or hormonal changes may mean your usual brand isn't doing for you what it used to, or perhaps you’re considering switching to an antiperspirant rather than a deodorant. What is the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant? As we’ve discussed above, deodorants help to control body odour, whereas antiperspirants keep you dry by reducing the amount of sweat you produce. The type you choose depends on your unique needs and preferences. Aluminium-free? This is mostly down to personal preference. Roll-ons can often feel gentler on the skin, but some find the wet feeling makes them feel sweaty, and don't like waiting for them to dry. If you're in this camp, opt for a spray. It should be noted that strong sprays can be asthma triggers if that is relevant for you or your family. Which is better for the environment?

I’m currently using Natural Deodorant Co. Their Vanilla and Manuka is great but I also love the Tangerine.” mychildrenarebarmy You can also visit your pharmacist to see what they suggest. There are more clinical products on the market, like Secret Clinical Strength that may help. Is aluminium harmful? There seems to be little evidence that it is, in terms of the amount present in antiperspirants. However, there has been past research into links between aluminium in antiperspirants and both breast cancer and Alzheimer's. There was a study in the early 2000s which linked aluminium and breast cancer, however this later study disputes those findings. Both Cancer Research UK and Alzheimer's Association state that there is no good evidence for these claims. Roll-on versus spray deodorant? We rely heavily on the tried-and-tested recommendations from approximately 7 million parents in our Mumsnet community each month. That’s a lot of honest, impartial advice! Expert adviceOne thing to be aware of is that some products (not usually deodorants) do contain vitamin A, which does have a link with affecting baby development. Therefore, the advice is to avoid vitamin-A products such as retinol used in anti-ageing serums and creams. How does crystal deodorant work? It's worth noting that some women have had side effects from switching to a crystal deodorant – such as skin irritation (especially on broken skin). This can calm down once your body gets used to it, but of course, if it continues, or you're worried, do stop using it. As one Mumsnetter says, “The crystal deodorant works brilliantly for me - it doesn't stop me sweating but it stops all odour. Lasts for years too.” How can I stop excessive sweating? Use a toothbrush to gently scrub the area and leave overnight. Wash as normal the next day. If the stain is still there, try the method again. I was going to suggest Sure Maximum Protection, the cream. Absolutely brilliant for me.” MrsPelligrinoPetrichor

Crystal deodorant is a type of alternative deodorant made of natural mineral salt called potassium alum, which has antimicrobial properties. It stops the growth of odour-causing bacteria but, like other deodorants, won't actually prevent sweat production. Like other non-antiperspirants, it works on the consideration that it's good for your body to sweat, but understandably not so good for you if that sweat smells. Excessive sweating is, in fact, a condition called hyperhidrosis. This is common and usually nothing to worry about, however, there is a chance that the sweating could be a symptom of another condition. If it's lasted over six months and prevents you from going about your daily life, do see your GP. How to get rid of deodorant stains Another vote for the Sure Maximum Protection - I use the Sport one. It was the only thing to conquer my post-baby B.O. and continues to leave me whiff free all day.” GroggyLegsI get on with Lush Aromaco. It's not an antiperspirant but I never smell sweaty when I use it.” GinandSonic If the sweat and toil of being a parent will teach you anything, it's what makes a great deodorant – so, we took the advice of Mumsnet users, especially on our Style and Beauty forum, and rounded it all up for you in one place. You're welcome. Without aluminium, deodorants don't really stop you sweating. However, there is some evidence that particular natural deodorant ingredients, such as astringents like witch hazel and tannins, dry out the underarms and reduce pore size, which will stop your underarms from feeling so sweaty. As far as we know, yes. While there are some reports on the potential risk of certain chemicals during pregnancy, there is very little evidence to suggest that beauty products, such as deodorants, are harmful to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some women may choose to avoid stronger products during this time, however, a lot of Mumsnet users have reported not changing their beauty habits.

The Aromaco contains soothing antibacterial chamomile vinegar and witch hazel infusion, which can limit sweat production by reducing pore size. It’s also a cruelty-free and vegan. And if your feet are the root of your odour issues, Lush also does a gentle, but effective foot deodorant powder. Pros

7. Best natural antiperspirant: Mitchum 24HR Natural Vegan Stick

Designed specifically to cope with the impact sport has on sweating and odour, this Sure Maximum Deodorant Cream offers powerful 96-hour protection against sweat and odour using a 'body-responsive TRIsolid formula'. In fact, manufacturers claim it offers three times the sweat protection than its normal antiperspirant does, plus it also has a nice, fresh citrusy smell with jasmine, apple and rose notes. Another bonus is that this formula contains additional moisturising ingredients to prevent possible skin irritation. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a deodorant or antiperspirant Deodorant vs antiperspirant? If you’re not a fan of deodorant sprays or roll-ons, we’ve found that this gentle deodorant cream from Natural Deodorant Co. does the job of keeping underarms fresh and sweat free for hours. It’s also easy to apply, simply use your fingertips to smear a small, pea-sized amount of the cream in your armpit area (make sure the area is completely dry first), and you’re ready to go. Because we know there’s nothing quite as valuable as real recommendations from those who have personally tried a product, we first headed to our Mumsnet Forum to find out which deodorants and antiperspirants Mumsnetters bought themselves to stay fresh and dry whilst running after the kids. Deodorant is a bit like Wi-Fi (bear with us) – you don't tend to think much about it or how it works until it doesn't. While sweat production isn't a bad thing – it's what stops us from overheating – the smell and dampness are generally not positively received.

If the stain has set in or remains after washing, try white vinegar. Put the vinegar onto the stain and let it absorb.Often seen as aluminium-free, potassium alum does have aluminium in it, although arguably of a lesser quantity than antiperspirants. The presence of aluminium in your deodorant might be a factor for you. All antiperspirants contain aluminium, as this active ingredient enables them to do their job of stopping sweat production. There are eco pros and cons for both. The aerosol cans used for sprays can get a bad rep – and indeed the compressed gases they use do contribute to CO2 emissions. They do not, however, directly damage the ozone layer anymore – CFCs used to manufacture aerosols have been banned since 1995.