By will-buy
Earlier come july 1st, numerous TikTok users rid themselves of supermarket deodorants and instead swiped glycolic acid on their underarms for sweat protection.
They claimed it stopped perspiration, prevented body odour, and minimised pigmentation.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution became the product of choice and also the hashtag #glycolicacidasdeodorant tallied up nearly 5.6 million views.
Reasons for that uptake include the rise of hack culture and Gen-Zs want for natural alternatives and multipurpose products.
And while owning products that solve more than one issue is fantastic, does this newest trick of the TikTok trade work – and is it safe?
First, we must keep in mind that glycolic acid is principally employed for bright and glowing skin on the face.
'Glycolic acid is an AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid), that has the opportunity to exfoliate skin with time, as it weakens chemical bonds between skin cells, helping cells to become sloughed away from skin's surface at a higher rate,' says Emma Coleman, a dermatology and aesthetic RGN.
'The result with regular use is clear pores, reduced breakouts and brighter skin.'
Sweat is made by eccrine glands in the armpits along with other areas of the body. They are activated by the hormones in reaction to increased temperatures and use, meaning sweat helps your body cool down.
So how does a brightening skin acid prevent glands from perspiring?
'For a product to become classed being an anti-perspirant, it has to contain an aluminum-derived compound which helps to bar sweat release from eccrine glands,' Emma explains.
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'Glycolic acid does hold the capability to neutralise body odour as its exfoliating nature helps to reduce bacteria within the armpit area. However, it's important to observe that continued use of the substance on the underarms will lighten the skin there.'
Furthermore, there is little evidence proving the substance reduces sweating. In fact, water from sweat neutralises the acid meaning its benefits are removed.
Emma advises those interested to stick to the things they know.
'For maximum protection and efficacy, I would recommend sticking with traditional anti-sweat products,' she concludes.
