deodorant n : a toiletry applied to the skin in order to mask unpleasant odors [syn: deodourant]

Deodorant \De*o"dor*ant\, n. A deodorizer.

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Deodorants are substances applied to the body to affect body odor caused by bacterial growth and the smell associated with bacterial breakdown of perspiration in armpits, feet and other areas of the body. A subgroup of deodorants, antiperspirants, prevent odor as well as reduce sweat by affecting pores, which produce sweat. Antiperspirants are typically applied to the underarms, while deodorants may also be used on feet and other areas in the form of body sprays. Deodorants are classified and regulated as cosmetics by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Deodorants that act as antiperspirants are classified as drugs by the FDA.

The first commercial deodorant, Mum, was introduced and patented in the late nineteenth century by an inventor in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, whose name has been lost to history. Stopette was later eclipsed by many other brands as the 1941 patent expired.

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