The smell of sweat appears due to the activity of bacteria – harmful microorganisms living on the surface of the skin. Mineral deodorant deactivates these bacteria and prevents them from multiplying. It is safe, natural and considered a bestseller among environmentally friendly cosmetics and hygiene products .
We tell you what the unique crystal deodorant consists of, how its effect is manifested and how to use it correctly.
What is crystal deodorant
Crystal, mineral, stone – this deodorant is called differently. But in all cases it is made of alunite, a mineral that is a sulfate of potassium and aluminum.
The name of the stone – alunite – came to us from the French language. Translated, it means “alum.”
You may have already heard this word or seen bottles in pharmacies labeled “Roasted alum.” This is a powder preparation for external use, which has astringent, hemostatic and antibacterial properties. It is nothing more than crushed alunite.
In nature, the mineral is formed in the surface layers of the earth’s crust. Its deposits have been discovered in different countries, but most of them are in Azerbaijan and the volcanic regions of Asia – in Thailand and the Philippines.
To produce deodorants, alunite mined by miners is cleaned, ground, polished and placed in a plastic case.
How crystal deodorants work
Antiperspirants work in different ways. Some mask the smell using fragrances. Others suppress the activity of sweat glands – they are called antiperspirants. Still others create a thin antibacterial film on the skin of the armpits.
Mineral deodorant belongs to the third group. It does not smell of anything and does not interfere with the functioning of the body, but only eliminates the cause of the unpleasant odor.
On a note. Many manufacturers produce combination products: antiperspirants-deodorants, as well as antiperspirants or antibacterial deodorants with fragrances.
Benefits of crystal deodorants
Thanks to its antibacterial effect, crystal deodorant promotes rapid healing of scratches and irritated areas of the skin, such as after shaving or as a result of rubbing from uncomfortable clothing.
Other advantages:
- The solid crystalline structure makes use as economical as possible – one stick weighing 100 g with daily use is enough for a year.
- The absence of odor makes mineral deodorant the best choice for nursing mothers and pregnant women suffering from toxicosis.
- After application there are no traces left on clothes.
Alunite can be used by people with a tendency to allergies, as well as by those for whom the body’s natural thermoregulation is important – the antibacterial film is not able to clog the ducts of the sweat glands.
How to choose the right crystal deodorant
The classic crystal deodorant is a solid mineral – processed and enclosed in a stick. If you are just starting to get acquainted with such means, choose it – this way you can fully test the effect of alunite.
For those who want variety, manufacturers produce fused crystals. They are subjected to heat treatment, introducing plant extracts, essences and oils into the composition. This type should be considered by people with very sensitive skin, as well as those who feel tightness and excessive dryness after using a solid mineral.
There are also alum deodorant sprays. They have the same mineral base, but a different form – in the form of a fine powder diluted with water. The spray allows you to create a denser film than solid deodorant.
How to use mineral deodorant correctly
In order for the mineral to release its salts, it must be moistened with water. But the skin should be dry and clean.
The procedure is as follows:
- After showering, dry your armpits with a towel.
- Moisten the alunite with water and rub it over the skin several times.
- Wait a couple of minutes, allowing the applied layer to dry.
After the procedure, rinse the deodorant, wipe with a napkin or allow moisture to evaporate from its surface naturally – this will prevent darkening and premature failure of the crystal.
On a note. Mineral deodorant can be used not only for the skin of the armpits. It is quite suitable for treating feet – the procedure is the same.
Caring for Crystal Deodorant
In addition to drying after each use, the deodorant needs protection from dirt, dust, and excess humidity – do not forget to screw the lid tightly.
Solid crystal is sensitive to shocks and falls. It cracks and breaks under high mechanical loads.
Alunite is inert to heat and cold. You can carry it with you in your bag in summer and winter without worrying about reduced efficiency.
Compatibility with other tools
Without fragrances, the classic version of mineral deodorant can pair with any perfume – the smell of sweat will be neutralized, and your favorite aroma will be revealed without distortion.
The crystal composition is suitable for treating skin after mechanical peeling, using enzyme powder or scrub, and is good for relieving irritation after shaving.
Some people use alunite deodorants together with antiperspirants, applying the antibacterial agent as the bottom layer. This is not entirely true – the interaction of different substances often provokes allergies and can even cause inflammation of the sweat glands. The fact is that complete leaching of salts from the skin is possible only if their content does not exceed 24%. By layering products on top of each other, it is easy to increase the concentration of salts and put yourself in danger.
Who should not use mineral deodorant?
Alunite does not in any way affect the process of sweat secretion, so it is not suitable for those who suffer from hyperhidrosis.
People with normal sweating should consider additional protection in the following cases:
- under severe stress;
- in heat;
- during active sports;
- in the process of drinking alcoholic beverages.
Sweat pads – disposable pads made of fluffy cellulose – can be a real lifesaver. This material perfectly absorbs excess moisture, leaving clothes dry. Alunite and the surface of the liners do not interact with each other.
Precautions for use
Since the mineral is fragile, you should keep it away from children and pets – small fragments can be swallowed by both.
When trying a new product, observe your body’s reaction. In very rare cases, applying alunite to the skin provokes the appearance of a small rash. It is believed that some chronic diseases contribute to this – you need to consult a doctor.
Do not use solid or fused crystal on open wounds. This will not have the desired effect. It is better to use traditional means: peroxide, chlorhexidine solution, furatsilin.
Let’s summarize
Mineral deodorant is a completely natural product. It prevents the appearance of sweat odor, but does not interfere with the functioning of the body.
Suitable for allergy sufferers, nursing and pregnant women, as well as anyone who values environmentally friendly hygiene products.
May seem ineffective if you sweat profusely.
