Vogue Explores Exfoliating Deodorants as Skincare Trend with Expert Insights

Vogue has published an extensive feature examining the growing trend of exfoliating deodorants, which incorporate alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and other active ingredients to address underarm concerns beyond odor control. The article explains that these products work by lowering skin pH to create an environment where odor-causing bacteria cannot thrive, while also providing skincare benefits like smoothing texture, brightening hyperpigmentation, and preventing ingrown hairs. Experts including board-certified dermatologists Dr. Mina Amin and Dr. Brendan Camp, nurse practitioner Vanessa Coppola, and brand founders Claudia Sulewski of Cyklar and Erin Sale of Saltair provide scientific context about how these formulas differ from traditional deodorants and natural alternatives. The publication highlights six specific products: Nécessaire The Déodorant Gel (launched 2022), Cyklar Mandelic Acid Brightening Deodorant Gel (recent launch), Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant (2020 launch), Saltair 5% AHA Serum Deodorant, Billie AHA Deodorant, and Drunk Elephant Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream. The article clarifies that exfoliating deodorants do not prevent sweat like antiperspirants but can reduce odor perception by altering bacterial environments. Key ingredients discussed include mandelic acid, lactic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, and various polyhydroxy acids. The feature combines expert medical perspectives with editorial testing experiences, noting considerations like texture preferences, packaging aesthetics, and specific skin concerns addressed by different formulations.