This article was co-authored by Jurdy Dugdale, RN. Jurdy Dugdale is a Registered Nurse in Florida. She received her Nursing License from the Florida Board of Nursing in 1989.
This article has been viewed 484,143 times.
While applying stick deodorant is not a complicated procedure, there is a correct way to accomplish it without causing too much of a mess. Stick deodorant is popular in the United States, but other countries favor sprays, gels, or no deodorant at all. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies deodorant as a cosmetic designed to eliminate or mask odor with fragrance.
Steps
Getting Ready
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1Choose a stick deodorant. Go shopping and decide which brand of stick deodorant and which fragrance is best for you. There are many different types to choose from, including scented, unscented, men’s, women’s, gel-based, powder-based, natural, and more.
- Read the label to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients.
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2Wash your armpits. Before applying the stick deodorant, either take a shower or wash your armpits thoroughly to freshen up.[1] Dry with a towel so that the deodorant will roll onto your skin smoothly without smearing.Advertisement
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3Wait to get dressed. Deodorant is known to streak on clothes, therefore, it is better to roll the deodorant under your armpit and then wait as long as possible to get dressed. If you put it on right before putting your shirt on, you’re much more likely to get white marks on your clothing.[2]
- As an alternative, you can put on your deodorant after you’ve already gotten dressed.
Applying Stick Deodorant
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1Unwind or pull off the deodorant cap. As with most cosmetic products, deodorant containers come with a tight cap that requires you to unwind it or pull it off.
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2Remove the plastic casing. There is often a special seal located under the cap and firmly on top of the deodorant stick that needs to be removed before use.
- The actual deodorant stick is made from alcohol, which needs to remain moist. A tight plastic casing keeps the stick moist and avoids evaporation.
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3Twist the applicator wheel 2-3 clicks. Once the lid is off, turn the wheel on the bottom of the deodorant stick 2 or 3 times to ensure that you have enough deodorant exposed at the top. This will help ensure full coverage.[3]
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4Apply deodorant in an even coat to the underarm region. Apply the deodorant slowly and thoroughly. Start at the center of your armpit and work your way outward in all directions until your underarm is completely covered. Reapply throughout the day as needed.[4]
- Make it easy on yourself by using the opposite hand to apply the deodorant to each of your armpits.
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5Replace the cap and put the deodorant away. Otherwise, the stick will dry up without the cap on and you will no longer be able to use it. Keep your deodorant somewhere that’s easy to access each day, such as inside the cabinet that’s under your bathroom sink.
Expert Q&A
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QuestionOld Spice deodorant makes me itch but doesn't give me a rash. Why does this happen and what should I do about it?
Jurdy Dugdale, RNJurdy Dugdale is a Registered Nurse in Florida. She received her Nursing License from the Florida Board of Nursing in 1989.
Medical Review BoardOld spice has a strong perfume component, which could be causing the itchiness for you. Just don't use it anymore and try other deodorants until you find one that you like and feels comfortable to use.
Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.
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QuestionCan I eat deodorant? If so, does it taste good?Jurdy Dugdale, RNJurdy Dugdale is a Registered Nurse in Florida. She received her Nursing License from the Florida Board of Nursing in 1989.
Medical Review BoardDeodorant most likely does not taste good. You shouldn't eat it, because it isn't designed to be eaten. Many deodorants have ingredients that can cause you to get sick if you consume them.Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.
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QuestionMy feet and underarms sweat a lot and they really smell bad. I use foot deodorant and regular deodorant but it doesn't seem to work. It definitely damages my social life, but does that mean I have hypohidrosis?
Chris M. Matsko, MDDr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017.
Family Medicine PhysicianIt is possible. You need to be evaluated by a doctor in a clinical setting. They may have prescription-strength deodorant for you to use to help you with your sweating and odor.Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.
Warnings
- If you experience discomfort or get a rash, stop using the deodorant and see a dermatologist.⧼thumbs_response⧽
References
- ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-wear-deodorant_us_566a1b6ae4b080eddf57c06a
- ↑ https://www.dove.com/uk/stories/tips-and-how-to/sweating-tips/how-to-apply-deodorant.html
- ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-wear-deodorant_us_566a1b6ae4b080eddf57c06a
- ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-wear-deodorant_us_566a1b6ae4b080eddf57c06a
About This Article
To apply stick deodorant, start by washing and drying your armpits so the deodorant will roll on smoothly. After removing the lid, turn the wheel at the bottom 2-3 times to expose the deodorant. Next, start at the center of your armpit and apply the deodorant by working your way outward in all directions until your underarm is completely covered. Then, wait as long as possible to get dressed, so you can avoid getting white marks on your clothing. For more tips from our Medical Reviewer, like how to choose the right deodorant for you, read on!
