Q. Years ago I was suffering with sensitivity to all underarm deodorants on the market. I found an alternative product at the health food store and bought it, though it was dreadfully expensive ($12). The directions said to apply a small amount of this white paste to each clean, dry armpit only once a week.
I tried it and it worked. The ingredients were zinc oxide, rosewater and some kind of powder. The tin was so small, I used it up in no time.
Then I bought myself a tube of cheap zinc oxide ointment (75 cents) and used it instead. I’ve been using it ever since with nary an odor. It’s not an antiperspirant, but it is a marvelous deodorant. Also, it’s safe: diaper rash cream is made of zinc oxide.
A. Thanks for telling us about your experience. According to our cosmetic consultant, zinc oxide has antimicrobial activity. We agree that it is safe for skin, and it seems to be an inexpensive approach to underarm odor.
