Boils such as pimples are red, swollen spots on the skin that contain pus, which develops if bacteria infect a hair follicle or an oil gland.
Although they may be instigated by factors such as bad hygiene, immunity-compromised individuals, or friction or pressure on the skin, there has been a query on whether some of the roll-on products, such as deodorants or antiperspirants, can in some way, cause the formation of boils.
Roll-on products are meant to be applied directly to the skin, particularly in the armpit and groyne area, since hair usually grows thicker there.
Common uses of most antiperspirant and deodorant formulations are active and inactive constituents, which are used to prevent sweating and a foul body smell.
Most roll-on products are formulated to be used on the skin, and the body, every day in particular, yet there have been instances where people have been found to develop boils in areas where the roll-on product was used.
The hypothesis is that ingredients which include preservatives, scents, or antimicrobial roll-on products may alter the skin microflora and commission the skin to disease-causing pathogens.
For instance, some of the antiperspirants have aluminium compounds that may clog the sweat ducts thus causing pricking and in the process developing a favourable breeding ground for bacteria.
In addition, if the roll-on products are applied on bare skin especially when the skin is cut or has a rash indicative of irritation after shaving or friction activities, then one may be at high risk of developing a boil.
Pores and hair follicles are other forms of opening on the skin, and they are very small for bacteria to penetrate thus causing an infection.
However, it remains relevant to recall that the connection between using the roll-on product and the emergence of boils is still not proven in any scientific sources.
Now, many people apply roll-on products without any side effects, and boils can appear due to other factors that have nothing to do with deodorants.
TIPS TO CONSIDER TO REDUCE THE RISK OF BOILS
1. Maintain good hygiene practices
The skin should be well washed and cleaned especially in the areas where the products are to be applied.
2. Avoid applying roll-on products to broken or irritated skin
This means that it is advisable to avoid any areas that are scratched, cut or that have razor burn when using the product.
3. Choose products with gentle formulations
Some roll-on products are marked as hypo-allergenic or preferably used for sensitive skin, these are the best types of products to look for. It is important that when buying skin care products you carefully inspect the ingredients and look them up to identify ingredients that may be harmful to your skin.
4. Monitor your skin for any adverse reactions
It is advised that in the course of using any of the mentioned products and you observe rashes such as redness, irritation, or inflammation, you should stop using the product and seek medical advice immediately
Perform a patch test, and test the product on the back of your hand to ensure there are no adverse reactions such as itching, redness or even swelling.
CONCLUSION
The direct correlation between using some roll-on products and the occurrence of boils or skin irritation in some people cannot be directly justified.
Ensuring one practices proper hygiene and is sensitive to their skin and the products used will go a long way in preventing skin problems.
If you have some sort of issues that you have been coping with consistently or you have been experiencing relapses of boils, it is advisable to seek advice from a physician of your choice.
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