When Was Deodorant Invented? [Who, Where & How]

Deodorant, a product that helps to eliminate body odor, was invented in the early 20th century. Some credit deodorant with saving lives, while others believe that it has caused more harm than good. But when was deodorant invented?

Deodorant was introduced in the late 1800s in the US. It was originally a liquid that was applied as a spray. It went on sale in 1892 and was called Mum. The first commercial deodorant was sold by the Lotte Company in Japan in 1909.

Deodorant is an inevitable part of our everyday life. This is why I decided to write this article. To answer your question and give you a whole lot more information about when was deodorant invented.

When Was Deodorant Invented?

who invented deodorant first

Deodorants have a long history. So, when was deodorant first used? Deodorants were first used in the early 20th century.

There are different theories about when was deodorant invented, but this is probably the most reliable one.

In 1892, US inventor Edna Murphey patented a product called Mum (for “Musk”) that contained aluminum chlorohydrate.

She claimed it could treat underarm odor and prevent sweating by absorbing perspiration into its crystals. However, she did not sell it until after she died in 1912.

In 1924, New York socialite Mary Perkins Ryan developed a product called Odorono that combined baking soda with a few other ingredients.

She sold her formula to the Dial Corporation and went on to develop other beauty products like shampoo and toothpaste before she died in 1987 at age 91.

In 1926, American chemist Walter Gibson invented Ban Roll-On Deodorant for his wife who complained about smelling bad after exercise or hard work around her house.

Gibson’s company became known as Ban Inc., which eventually merged with Procter & Gamble Co., maker of Gillette razors and many other cosmetic brands.

Deodorants are commercially manufactured in liquid, gel, spray, and solid forms and contain antibacterial agents, fragrances, and skin moisturizers.

Deodorants are applied to the skin after bathing to reduce body odor caused by bacteria.

The main functional difference between deodorant and perfume is that the latter contains perfume added as a fragrance but does not prevent sweat from forming on the skin’s surface.

When was spray deodorant invented?

The first modern spray deodorant was invented in the early 20th century.

The product was developed by a man named James Young, who worked as an executive for the Gillette Safety Razor Company.

The product was known as “Mum” and was originally released in 1936.

Mum remained on the market until 1963 when it was discontinued due to concerns about its effectiveness.

However, Mum’s inventor had already left Gillette to start his own company called Odorono Inc., which released another spray deodorant called Right Guard in 1964.

When was women’s deodorant invented?

Women’s deodorant was invented in the 1950s.

Women had been using commercial deodorants since the early 1900s, but they were mostly marketed as antiperspirants because they contained aluminum salts that clogged pores and prevented sweat from escaping the body.

In the mid-20th century, manufacturers began marketing their products as antiperspirants and roll-ons became popular.

The first women’s roll-on, called Ban Roll-On Deodorant, came out in 1952.

Who invented deodorant and why?

When the first deodorant was invented, it was meant to prevent body odor. The person who invented deodorant was Edna Murphey.

As an inventor of deodorant, she created a paste that would rub on the skin and keep it from smelling bad. It was made from baking soda and cornstarch.

This was her first version of deodorant. Later, she came up with a new formula that used aluminum salts as its base. This formula could be used by both men and women.

The first deodorants were sold in pharmacies or grocery stores, but they weren’t very popular until the 1920s when commercial advertising became more popular.

The ads claimed that if you wore their product, you could remain fresh all day long without needing to bathe or wash your clothes every morning before work or school like some people did at the time (this was before automatic washers).

This is when deodorants really started getting noticed by people who didn’t know about them before then!

Where was deodorant Invented?

Where was deodorant Invented? In the United States by Edna Murphey. She developed a product called Mum which she manufactured in her kitchen.

The main ingredient was boric acid, and it was marketed as a way of keeping underarms dry and odor-free.

The product was not an instant hit, but it gradually gained popularity until the 1920s when other manufacturers began manufacturing their own versions of deodorants

That version contained aluminum chloride or trichloromethyl chloroformate as active ingredients.

When was antiperspirant invented?

When was deodorant invented

If you try to track down when was antiperspirant invented, the lead will take you back to 1892 and chemist Edna Murphey.

She used aluminum salts to block the sweat glands, which prevented the production of sweat.

In the 1920s, antiperspirant was marketed as a way to stop sweating.

The first commercial antiperspirants used aluminum salts, which were very effective at blocking sweat glands.

They also had a strong smell that some people found unpleasant. This led to a drop in sales during the 1930s and 1940s.

The invention of deodorants was necessary in order to make antiperspirants more appealing to consumers.

In 1948, foot odor was recognized as one of the most common causes of social embarrassment, so an antiperspirant with a deodorant component was invented to combat it.

The two products were marketed together as “all-in-one” products until 1961 when they became separate products once again.

The history of deodorant

The nature humanities history of deodorant starts in the 20th century. In the early days, people used to use perfumes and powders to mask the smell of sweat.

But as time passed by, this method became old-fashioned and people started using solid blocks of aluminum chlorohydrate as a deodorant.

We can find one particular example of it in the 18th century when King Louis XIV of France was known for his smelly armpits.

He is believed to have used a mixture of camphor and vinegar in order to mask his body odor.

In 1892, Edna Murphey invented the first commercial antiperspirant, which contained aluminum salts. This product eliminated perspiration by blocking pores with an astringent effect.

The deodorants in those days were not very effective, but they did help to reduce body odor.

In 1921, Americans started buying their deodorants in aerosol cans instead of jars.

A company called Sigmund Frohlich developed this new type of packaging, but it wasn’t until 1935 that Milton Babbitt took over the company.

Later, it became successful in selling its aerosol cans of Odorono Spray Deodorant at drug stores across America.

Deodorant in the 1940s

Deodorant in the 1940s was affordable to common people. Deodorants were made with natural ingredients, such as baking soda, which was an efficient way to eliminate odor.

The idea behind deodorant is simple: to eliminate body odor by killing bacteria with an antimicrobial agent.

Aluminum was unavailable for producers due to WWII but after the war, aluminum salts were used as antiperspirants in deodorant products.

Deodorant in the 1950s

Deodorant in the 1950s was popularized worldwide when companies such as Mennen and Rexall began marketing products such as Mennen’s Roll-On Deodorant Stick.

They were offered in a plastic tube that could be twisted up and down to release its contents (and later became one of the first personal hygiene products produced for men).

At that time, deodorants were classified into two categories: antiperspirants and deodorants/antiperspirants (or simply “deos”).

Antiperspirants reduce or eliminate sweat production; deodorants mask or eliminate body odor caused by bacteria breaking down sweat into acids (such as ammonia).

Deodorant in the 1960s

In the 1960s, aerosol sprays were developed that contained chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants that helped prevent sweating and blocked the pores on the skin.

These products were widely used until scientists discovered that CFCs destroy stratospheric ozone.

Most countries banned CFC production in the 1980s because it causes damage to the Earth’s ozone layer in the upper atmosphere.

Today there are many different types of deodorants available for people who want to smell fresh all day long.

Many companies also sell antiperspirants that block sweat from coming out through pores in your skin so you don’t have to worry about odor at all!

Deodorant in the 1970s

In 1972, Dove launched a campaign to make deodorant cool and fashionable, which has led to its popularity in the United States today.

In the 1970s, companies like Degree began introducing non-alcoholic products as an alternative to the traditional antiperspirants that contained aluminum chloride.

This was a big moment in deodorant history because it meant that more people would want to use deodorant due to its milder formula.

Deodorant in the 1980s

In 1982, Dove introduced the concept of deodorant as a fashion accessory when it released its line of scented roll-on deodorants in different scents such as “Cotton,” “Clean,” and “White Petals.”

The idea was that women could wear their favorite perfume with their regular underarm protection.

At this point, women were starting to become more aware of personal hygiene products and wanted something more than just plain old bar soap for their pits!

Body odor in the 18th century

Body odor was a huge issue in the 18th century. It wasn’t just an aesthetic problem—it was also associated with class, social standing, and health.

It’s true that people back then didn’t have access to deodorants, toothbrushes, and other modern conveniences that help us avoid unpleasant smells.

But they also didn’t have access to advanced hygiene technology – like indoor plumbing – that helps keep our skin clean and healthy.

For those of us who live in the 21st century, it’s difficult to imagine that there was a time when people were so concerned with their smell that they would use all kinds of things to mask it – from perfume to scented powders to perfumed gloves.

This created an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and multiply—creating the unpleasant smell associated with body odor.

What did they use for deodorant in the 1800s?

The 19th century saw a rise in personal cleanliness and hygiene practices like bathing.

However, this didn’t mean that people were necessarily more hygienic; as bathrooms were still not very common in homes at that time.

Most people did their washing and bathing at public baths or at their local public well.

People used many different methods to try to keep themselves smelling fresh throughout the day.

They wore perfumes, bathed often with soap made from animal fat and ashes, and even washed their hair with urine (which they believed would cleanse them of any bad smells).

Different types of deodorant

Deodorants are an essential part of every person’s routine. Here are 5 the most popular types of deodorants today:

  1. Spray: Sprays are easy to apply but can leave your clothes stained and wet. You may also get some in your eyes if you don’t hold the spray can far enough away from your body.
  2. Powder: Powders come in a dry form and must be applied with a brush or puff. They keep better than sprays, but tend to leave white residue on dark clothing and may irritate sensitive skin.
  3. Cream: Cream deodorants are great for sensitive skin because they’re less likely to irritate it than other types of deodorants.
  4. Gel: Gel deodorants are usually clear or white in color, so they’re easy to see where they’ve been applied on your armpits after application.
  5. Roll-on: This type of deodorant is easy to use, as it does not require any rubbing or pressure to apply. However, it is important that you do not apply too much or else it will cause irritation and rashes on your skin.

How to use deodorant?

Deodorants are used for many reasons. Some people find that it helps to reduce sweating and others find that it helps to block the smell of sweat.

It also can be used as a cosmetic product, with different fragrances available to suit individual tastes. So how to use deodorant properly?

If you use it as a spray, it will be better to use it at night before going to bed, because the pores are open while you are sleeping.

That way it will be easier for the deodorant to penetrate into the skin and work more effectively.

If you use it as a cream, cream, or gel-based, then it is better to use it in the morning after showering or bathing, because this will allow the pores to close and prevent bacteria from entering through them.

Antiperspirants work by blocking your pores and preventing sweat from reaching the surface of your skin where you can smell it.

They can also be used as an alternative treatment if you have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).

Some people prefer an alcohol-free deodorant because they find that alcohol dries out their armpits and makes them itch or become sore after shaving.

There are also natural deodorants made from essential oils which may be better suited to sensitive skin types and some people prefer not to use anything synthetic under their arms at all!

How to use crystal deodorant?

The crystal deodorant can be applied directly to the skin or you can use it in combination with other products such as soap or lotion.

  • STEP 1: Wash your hands with soap and water and pat them dry with a towel.
  • STEP 2: Shake the container of your crystal deodorant so that all of the crystals are evenly distributed throughout the container.
  • STEP 3: Apply your crystal deodorant directly onto your underarms or anywhere else on your body that needs protection from body odor.

How to use the deodorant spray?

Deodorant body spray is a good option if you’re looking for a quick fix for bad odors on the go.

If you’re wondering how to use deodorant body spray, it’s pretty straightforward.

It’s easy to apply, and it doesn’t leave residue behind like traditional deodorants do. It’s also good for sensitive skin because it won’t irritate it or cause any irritation or rashes.

How to use deodorant stick?

To use a deodorant stick, first, make sure you have your arm extended and your elbow straight. Then, it’s a two-step process:

  1. When you’re ready to use your deodorant, twist the bottom of the stick until a small amount is exposed.
  2. Apply deodorant to underarms using upward strokes. Reapply as needed throughout the day, especially after exercise or after showering.

How to use deodorant roll-on?

The first thing you want to do is make sure that your skin is clean and dry before applying your deodorant.

If you don’t clean your skin well enough, then the deodorant won’t stick as well and could cause irritation or dryness.

Once your skin is clean and dry, apply the deodorant to areas where sweat tends to collect (underarms and feet).

You can use one hand or two hands depending on how much coverage you want. You might want more coverage if you’re wearing a dress or tank top so that no one can see any white marks on your shirt from sweat stains.

How to use deodorant cream?

Deodorant is the most common form of antiperspirant. It’s a product that helps reduce body odor by reducing sweating.

Deodorant cream is often used to treat acne. It contains benzoyl peroxide, which is an antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria and decreases inflammation.

The best way to use deodorant is to apply it before going to bed at night, or when you wake up in the morning if you have time. You can also apply it after taking a shower or bath.

It’s important to keep in mind that deodorant can stain clothing, so be sure to wear loose-fitting clothes while using it.

How to use gel deodorant?

If you’re using a gel-based product and want more coverage than just underarms, try rubbing some onto your upper arms as well as the backs of your hands (but not the palms).

This will help keep any odor away from other areas of the body where you might sweat more heavily throughout the day. If you’re going somewhere hot where there isn’t much air conditioning or if it’s particularly humid outside, try applying deodorant before bedtime so that it has time to react with your body.

How to use baking soda as a deodorant?

To use baking soda as a deodorant, you’ll want to mix it with water. Here are some quick tips about how to use it:

  1. Make sure your skin is wet before applying deodorant. This helps it stick better!
  2. Apply a small amount of baking soda directly onto your armpits (or wherever else you want). It’s best if you use your finger rather than a puff or sponge because it will give a more even application and won’t waste any product!
  3. Let dry for 15-20 minutes before putting on clothes or leaving the house.

How to use glycolic acid as a deodorant?

Glycolic acid is a great way to get rid of underarm odor. To use glycolic acid as a deodorant, you’ll need to mix it with water and apply the mixture.

 You can use a cotton ball or cotton swab for this.

Mixing glycolic acid with water is easy: just add 1 tablespoon of glycolic acid to 2 cups of water, and stir until it’s dissolved.

Then apply it with a cotton swab or cotton ball.

FAQ’s

If you still have doubts about when was deodorant invented or how to use it, here’s a list of frequently asked questions. It might help you to find out something new.

What was used before deodorant?

Before deodorant was invented, people used everything from lemon juice to perfume to mask their body odor. Some people even went as far as to use perfume mixed with alcohol or vinegar on their armpits in an attempt to cover up the smell.

What did ancient people do about body odor?

In ancient Egypt, people used perfumes made from spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In Greece, people used a type of powder made from crushed herbs like mint, rosemary, and sage. In the 1400s in England, people would use sweat-absorbing powders made from alum or borax.

What did the Romans use for deodorant?

The Romans used a variety of products for deodorant. The most common was the use of perfume. They also used other things like sweat-absorbing clays, and pottery made from ashes and clay.

What did people use for deodorant 100 years ago?

Some chose to go au naturel, allowing their bodies to smell as they would without deodorant. This was especially popular among men who were out in the woods or doing work that required them to sweat heavily. Others found that they could use baking soda as an effective deodorant.

What did they use for deodorant in the 1700s?

The 1700s were a time when people were just starting to discover that they could use certain things to keep their armpits from smelling. They used things like powdered flowers and leaves, or even spices like cinnamon. They also used things like lemon juice or vinegar.

What did cowboys use for deodorant?

Back in the day, cowboys didn’t have deodorant. Instead, they used a combination of salt and water to cleanse their armpits. And believe it or not, it worked!

Do Native Americans use deodorant?

Native Americans did not have access to modern products like we do today, so they would be using natural ingredients like sagebrush or cedar chips instead.

Conclusion

We’ve learned a lot about the history of deodorants and when was deodorant invented.

We’ve also learned that our ancestors were smarter than you might have thought, and we’ve discovered how deodorants are made.

Well anyway, I hope this blog helped you out and answered your question.

If there’s still anything unclear to you about deodorants, feel free to leave a comment here or on my social media accounts.