Is Day or Night the Best Time to Apply Deodorant?

by Dr. Avee Naidoo (2024).

As a physician practicing dermatology, I often get asked about the best time to apply deodorant or antiperspirant. While most people are in the habit of putting it on in the morning, research shows that applying deodorant at night can actually be more effective.

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Let me explain why…

At night, your body temperature is lower, and you're sweating less. This is the ideal condition for antiperspirants, which contain aluminum-based compounds that block sweat ducts. When applied to dry, clean skin before bed, these ingredients have plenty of time to be absorbed and form plugs in your sweat glands, reducing sweat production. By morning, the antiperspirant has already had several hours to take effect.

In contrast, applying deodorant in the morning—especially after a hot shower or during active hours of the day—can be less effective. Sweat can dilute the product before it has time to work properly, and the moisture on your skin may hinder absorption.

Don’t worry, though! The effects of antiperspirants typically last for 24 hours, meaning even if you shower the next morning, the protection remains.

For those seeking better control over sweating and odour,

switching to nighttime application can make a noticeable difference!

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If your sweating is making you self-conscious, affecting your day-to-day life and not controlled by over the counter antiperspirants, speak to your dermatologist or skin care physician to discuss medical options, from prescriptions to therapeutic botox to laser.